We still don’t know when the 2020–21 season will begin for Coach Fred Hoiberg and his team. What we do know is that the Huskers are preparing as if they’ll tip off on Nov. 25 and they’ll have a schedule any day now.
Athletic Director Bill Moos preceded Hoiberg on Tuesday, sharing with Greg Sharpe that he expected the basketball schedule “by later this evening. Certainly, by tomorrow and we can go forward.” Hoiberg echoed something similar, but was more confident that Nebraska’s nonconference schedule would be released Wednesday. The Big Ten slate would then follow shortly after.
With the Golden Window Classic set for Nov 25–29—which Nebraska is participating in—Hoiberg said they’re still trying to finalize the full schedule at this point. One thing he did point to was a potential early game for Nebraska on Wednesday, Nov. 25.
A set number of fans were originally going to be allowed inside Pinnacle Bank Arena, but that has since been changed with the rising case numbers of COVID-19 in Lincoln. Hoiberg is hopeful they’ll get all of the games televised from the Golden Window Classic instead so fans can still tune in.
Another schedule tidbit worth noting? Hoiberg said the Huskers are working toward a game with Creighton and feels good about the possibility of it happening.
“We’re fairly confident we’re going to play that game,” he said.
Plenty has yet to be decided, but it sounds like some answers may be arriving soon. At least that’s what Hoiberg—and Moos—are hoping for.
More news and notes:
>> What will the setup be like for team benches at Pinnacle Bank Arena? Hoiberg said it’ll be similar to how they were in the NBA bubble––a socially distanced setup, allowing more space for players.
Hoiberg also said that officials will be tested for COVID-19 before they leave for Lincoln, will test again when they arrive the day prior and again the day of the game.
>> No surprises for Hoiberg at this point with his team. He did say he’s been pleased though with how much this group loves the game and to compete.
>> Hoiberg spent a portion of his time on Sports Nightly discussing his roster. He has talked previously about Chipola College transfer Lat Mayen’s shooting ability, but he further praised how hard Mayen has worked. Hoiberg said he’s been one of the team’s leading defensive rebounders in addition to stretching the floor..
Another name that came up? Thorir Thorbjarnarson, who Hoiberg called a “stabilizing force” for the newcomers as they continue to learn Nebraska’s system.
He also mentioned Pitt transfer Trey McGowens as someone who can “really guard.” Hoiberg said he’s a two-way player, not just a score, and was excited to learn he would be eligible for this season.
Jacob Padilla contributed to this report.
