Nebraska’s Sweet 16 joy, Vanderbilt’s agony were a centimeter from reversal
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Nebraska secured their first-ever Sweet 16 appearance by narrowly defeating Vanderbilt 74-72 in a thrilling NCAA Tournament second-round game at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
- The victory was highlighted by key performances from Nebraska’s Rienk Mast, who overcame a major knee surgery to lead the team with 13 points and crucial leadership, and Braden Frager, who made the game-winning layup.
- Vanderbilt’s Tyler Tanner scored 27 points and nearly sank a miraculous halfcourt shot at the buzzer, but the Commodores fell short despite a late-game comeback.
- Nebraska’s coach Fred Hoiberg praised Mast’s incredible recovery and leadership, emphasizing the team’s composure and resilience in a high-pressure environment fueled by a passionate Nebraska
