Opinion
3 min read

Can Nebraska Cornhuskers Outshine Iowa Hawkeyes at Target Center?

As the Nebraska Cornhuskers prepare to face off against the Iowa Hawkeyes, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Target Center. The Cornhuskers have been on an impressive run, showcasing their resilience and strategic prowess on the court.


Feb 11, 2024; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) during a timeout in the second quarter against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent semifinal game on March 9 against Maryland Terrapins, NEB emerged victorious with a ten-point lead, finishing strong at 78 points. Their performance was marked by a balanced attack and solid defense, as they outrebounded their opponents 36 to 32 and converted an impressive 46 percent of their three-point attempts. The team's ability to maintain a higher assists turnover ratio than Maryland (1.29 compared to 0.94) played a crucial role in securing this win.


The quarterfinal match-up on March 8 saw NEB overpowering Michigan State Spartans with a decisive twelve-point margin, ending the game at 73-61. Dominance in rebounding was evident as NEB grabbed an astounding total of 44 rebounds compared to MSU's modest count of 30. Their defensive efforts were highlighted by five blocks and maintaining control over turnovers with only eleven compared to MSU's thirteen.


Feb 11, 2024; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Jaz Shelley (1) shoots a three point shot against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Caitlin Clark (22) during the first quarter at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports

NEB's journey through the Big Ten tournament began with overcoming Purdue Boilermakers in a tight contest that ended at 64-56 on March 7. Despite trailing early in the game, NEB showed commendable tenacity by rallying back thanks to their defensive hustle which resulted in five steals and four blocks.


The upcoming clash against IOWA is expected to test NEB’s mettle once again. While IOWA will have home-court advantage and likely come prepared with strategies tailored for this encounter, it is essential not to underestimate NEB’s momentum coming into this game.


Feb 11, 2024; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers guard Jaz Shelley (1) looks to pass against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Molly Davis (1) during the fourth quarter at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports

The key for NEB will be maintaining their sharpshooting from beyond the arc while continuing their aggressive rebounding strategy that has served them well throughout previous games. If they can also manage turnovers effectively and capitalize on fast-break opportunities as they did against Maryland Terrapins, there’s no reason why they can’t leave Minneapolis victorious once more.


Fans eager for action should mark their calendars for March 10th when these two formidable teams go head-to-head starting at precisely eleven o'clock AM Eastern Time (ET). The excitement will unfold live from Target Center in Minneapolis – all broadcasted through CBS network television – promising an exhilarating showdown not just for supporters but all lovers of competitive sportsmanship.

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