2009-2010 Nebraska Cornhuskers Basketball Preview
The Cornhuskers of Nebraska (18- 13 overall, 8- 8 Big 12) went
to the NIT last season and were eliminated in the first round.
In the past five years, Nebraska has gone to the NIT three times.
They have not earned a NCAA berth in over five seasons and have
been unable to post a winning conference record. This is a team
that will once again struggle to win.
The highlight for Nebraska last season was its scoring defense,
which was ranked first, allowing just 60.4 PPG. On the other hand,
the Huskers were 11th in scoring offense, putting up just 64.4
PPG. They were 10th in field goal percentage, hitting 44% of the
time. They also earned low marks on rebounding, posting a minus-6.6
mark. The Huskers were better on threes and frees, hitting 36%
and 70% respectively.
The frontcourt will feature big-bodied freshman Christopher Niemann
at center. He's expected to command the boards and bang with the
rest of the Big 12 men. He should be a big help on the rebounding
front. Also upfront will be Christian Standhardinger, another
talented frosh. Standhardinger, who must be approved by the NCAA
Clearinghouse before he can play, offers a fine shot. Junior college
transfer Quincy Hankins-Cole could also see action. Redshirted
freshman center Brian Diaz will be utilized to supply points and
play “D.” He’s a decent two-way player.
The guard and wing spots both have depth. Senior guard Sek Henry
(8.0 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.1 APG) has a wealth of experience. He has
the chops to start at the point. However, junior college transfer
Lance Jeter, an athletic performer, will compete for the point
guard spot. Freshman Ray Gallegos and sophomore Brandon Richardson
will also vie for the position. Senior Ryan Anderson (7.1 PPG,
3.8 RPG, 1.9 APG) will be asked to score points, but his output
has diminished with each passing season. Finally, Toney McCray
(5.7 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 0.6 APG), a sophomore, has to step up as a
shooter and defender.
Head coach Doc Sadler has a talented but extremely inexperienced
team. The college basketball season is long and grueling and will
take its toll on such a young team as they attempt to find consistency.
Still, they will be interesting to watch as they develop and attempt
to gel. The Huskers will finish in the bottom third of the conference
and stay at home during the post season.
