Undefeated Nebraska Claims Top Seed Projection as Houston Surges Forward
Updated tournament projections released Friday place the unbeaten Nebraska Cornhuskers as a top seed in the East Region, this marks a stunning turnaround for the program. The historic run accompanies a surge by the Houston Cougars, they have climbed to a second seed following an eleven game winning streak.
Historic Struggles and Recent Victories Shape Current Season Narrative
This projected top seeding represents a massive shift for a program defined by postseason heartbreak, Nebraska remains the only Power Conference school without a single tournament victory. The team holds an all time record of zero wins and eight losses in the NCAA Tournament, this creates immense pressure to finally break the curse. Momentum began building last April when the Cornhuskers won the inaugural College Basketball Crown in Las Vegas, that victory provided a foundation for their current success. Coach Fred Hoiberg has leveraged that confidence to defy preseason polls which predicted a fourteenth place finish, the team now sits atop the national landscape.
Updated Projections Reveal Big Ten Dominance and New Contenders
The January 23 update highlights a reshaping of the college basketball hierarchy, the Big Ten Conference leads the field with ten teams projected to make the bracket. Nebraska sits at 19-0 overall, they join UConn, Duke, and fellow unbeaten Arizona on the top seed line. Houston has secured a number two seed thanks to their aggressive defense and the leadership of veteran coach Kelvin Sampson, the Cougars lead the Big 12 standings.
Key Players Driving the Surge
Individual performances are fueling these team achievements, Nebraska relies heavily on Pryce Sandfort who averages 17 points per game. He is supported by Rienk Mast and defensive efforts from Sam Hoiberg, the team has succeeded despite an injury to freshman standout Braden Frager. Houston counters with senior Milos Uzan and defensive player of the year candidate Joseph Tugler, these athletes have positioned the Cougars for another deep run after their 2025 runner up finish. The bracket remains fluid with schools like Ohio State and Stanford fighting for the final spots, selection decisions will tighten in coming weeks.
Upcoming Schedule Gauntlet Will Test Top Ranked Teams
The path to Selection Sunday on March 15 involves significant hurdles, Nebraska faces a difficult stretch of games against ranked opponents like Michigan and Purdue. Maintaining a perfect record could secure them opening round games in nearby Omaha, this would offer a massive home court advantage. Houston aims to steal a top seed during high stakes road games against Texas Tech and Baylor, successful postseason runs now correlate with larger NIL prize pools for universities.
Analysts suggest the next month will clarify if these non traditional powers can hold their ground against blue blood programs, fans eagerly await the final bracket reveal.
