Nebraska Triumphs 80-73 Against Winthrop Behind Rienk Mast

In a gripping nonconference matchup on Tuesday night in Lincoln, Nebraska, Rienk Mast delivered a stellar performance, scoring 22 of his 31 points during the second half to steer Nebraska to an 80-73 win against Winthrop. Mast showcased impressive shooting, finishing the game 11-for-18 from the field, including a remarkable 7-for-10 from beyond the arc.

Besides Mast, teammates Braden Frager and Cale Jacobsen each contributed 11 points, as the Cornhuskers improved their season record to 7-0. Despite a shooting percentage of 42% overall, Nebraska managed to secure the win by making 13 of their 38 three-point attempts (34.2%), effectively countering Winthrop’s rebounding strength.

Led by Kareem Rozier, who scored 14 points, Winthrop (3-4) had strong performances from Daylen Berry with 12 points and Pharrell Boyogueno with 11, taking advantage of Nebraska's missing forward Berke Buyuktuncel due to an ankle injury. The match remained tightly contested, with numerous lead changes highlighting the competition.

The Eagles held a 36-32 lead at halftime, capitalizing on Nebraska's struggles from long-range, hitting only 4 of 22 three-pointers (18.2%). However, the Cornhuskers burst into the second half with four quick three-pointers, taking a 44-42 lead with 15:54 to play. Thanks to Mast’s scoring prowess and a surge in shooting accuracy, Nebraska began to inch ahead.

Nebraska extended its advantage to 59-51 with another three-pointer from Mast at 8:40 remaining. The talented forward kept the momentum going, contributing to an 8-0 run with two more three-pointers. Although they led by as many as 13 points late in the game, Winthrop fought back fiercely, closing the gap to 72-69 following a Rozier three-pointer with just 1:45 left.

In the final moments, Nebraska sealed the deal by scoring on consecutive possessions to clinch the game 80-73. This victory marks the Cornhuskers’ 11th consecutive win, the longest active win streak in the nation, underscoring their effective shooting and balanced scoring, alongside crucial late-game execution that helped resist Winthrop’s relentless comeback efforts.

Looking ahead, Winthrop will host South Carolina State on Saturday, while Nebraska prepares to face South Carolina Upstate at home. Both teams are eager to build on their performances, with Winthrop hoping to rebound from a close-fought game and Nebraska aiming for perfection.

Rienk Mast’s stellar second-half scoring reiterates Nebraska’s offensive depth and perseverance. With key contributions from Frager and Jacobsen, the Cornhuskers are forging a promising season, while Winthrop showcased grit, making for a thrilling contest for fans.