Nebraska's men's basketball team captured its first NCAA tournament victory in program history, defeating No. 13 seed Troy 76-47 in the Round of 32. The 29-point margin marked the largest first-ever tournament win since 1971. Junior forward Pryce Sandfort led the charge with a career-high 23 points, including seven three-pointers, setting a new program record for most threes in a tournament game.

Sandfort's 17 first-half points fueled a dominant second-half performance as the Huskers secured their first tournament win after eight previous appearances. The victory provided immense relief for coach Fred Hoiberg, who endured three consecutive losing seasons before guiding Nebraska to its first 20-win season and tournament berth. 'It's almost like a storybook ending,' said Hoiberg, whose father missed Nebraska's first NCAA win due to health issues. The win also offered redemption for senior Jamarques Lawrence, who played on Nebraska's 2024 first-round loss to Texas A&M.

Sandfort's brother Payton, who made his NBA debut the night before, watched from the stands, calling it 'special.' Nebraska now advances to face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the Round of 32, continuing its surprising tournament run.