Nebraska Basketball’s 2025–26 Non-Conference Schedule: Top 3 Confirmed Opponents

The Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s basketball team has unveiled its non-conference schedule for the 2025–26 season, featuring a blend of regional rivalries and high-profile matchups. Head coach Fred Hoiberg has strategically crafted a slate that balances competitive challenges with regional appeal, ensuring that all non-conference games are within a 3½-hour radius of Lincoln, Nebraska.

1. Creighton Bluejays – December 7, 2025

A highlight of the non-conference schedule is the annual rivalry game against the Creighton Bluejays. This matchup, scheduled for December 7, 2025, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, promises to be a thrilling contest. Creighton, a perennial powerhouse in the Big East Conference, consistently competes in the NCAA Tournament, making them a formidable opponent for the Cornhuskers.(

The Creighton-Nebraska rivalry is one of the most anticipated games of the season, drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. With both teams eager to assert dominance in this in-state rivalry, the game is expected to be a high-intensity affair, showcasing the talents of some of the region’s top basketball players.

2. Oklahoma Sooners – November 11, 2025

On November 11, 2025, Nebraska will host the Oklahoma Sooners at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Oklahoma, a member of the Big 12 Conference, has a rich basketball tradition and consistently fields competitive teams. This matchup provides an excellent opportunity for the Cornhuskers to test their mettle against a team from a power conference early in the season.

Games like these are crucial for Nebraska as they seek to strengthen their non-conference schedule and prepare for the rigors of Big Ten play. Facing a team like Oklahoma will challenge the Cornhuskers’ depth, strategy, and execution, providing valuable insights into areas for improvement.

3. BYU Cougars – October 18, 2025 (Exhibition)

The season opener on October 18, 2025, features an exhibition game against the BYU Cougars at Pinnacle Bank Arena. While exhibition games do not count toward the official record, they serve as an important opportunity for teams to experiment with lineups, integrate new players, and build team chemistry.

BYU, a respected program with a history of NCAA Tournament appearances, will provide Nebraska with a solid test in this exhibition matchup. The game will allow the Cornhuskers coaching staff to assess the team’s readiness for the upcoming season and make necessary adjustments before the regular season commences.

Conclusion

Nebraska’s 2025–26 non-conference basketball schedule is designed to provide a mix of regional rivalries and challenging matchups against teams from power conferences. The games against Creighton, Oklahoma, and BYU will serve as important benchmarks for the Cornhuskers as they prepare for the competitive landscape of Big Ten basketball. By facing a diverse array of opponents, Nebraska aims to build momentum and cohesion heading into the heart of the season.

As the season progresses, these non-conference games will not only test the team’s abilities but also serve as a platform for emerging players to showcase their talents on a national stage. With a well-rounded schedule in place, Nebraska fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive basketball season.