Rienk Mast Leads Nebraska to 80-73 Win Over Winthrop

Rienk Mast scored 22 of his 31 points in the second half to lead Nebraska to an 80-73 victory over Winthrop in a nonconference game on Tuesday night in Lincoln, Nebraska. Mast was highly efficient, shooting 11-for-18 from the field and 7-for-10 from three-point range, giving the Cornhuskers a strong scoring boost when it mattered most.

Along with Mast, Braden Frager and Cale Jacobsen each added 11 points for Nebraska, which improved to 7-0 this season. The Cornhuskers shot 42% overall and made 13 of 38 three-pointers (34.2%) to secure the win. Nebraska’s balanced scoring helped offset Winthrop’s strong rebounding and made the difference in a close contest.

Winthrop (3-4) was led by Kareem Rozier, who scored 14 points, while Daylen Berry contributed 12 points and Pharrell Boyogueno added 11. The Eagles capitalized on the absence of Nebraska forward Berke Buyuktuncel, who missed the game with an ankle injury, and outrebounded the Cornhuskers 48-38. Winthrop remained competitive throughout the game, keeping the pressure on Nebraska with multiple lead changes.

Winthrop led 36-32 at halftime. Nebraska had difficulty with long-range shooting in the first half, making only 4 of 22 three-pointers (18.2%). However, the Cornhuskers opened the second half strong, sinking four early treys to take a 44-42 lead with 15:54 remaining. Mast’s scoring and Nebraska’s improved shooting turned the game in their favor.

Nebraska extended its lead to 59-51 on a Mast three-pointer with 8:40 left in the game. Mast continued his hot streak, hitting two more three-pointers as part of an individual 8-0 run. Nebraska later led by as much as 13 points with 5:35 remaining, but Winthrop did not give up. The Eagles responded with five consecutive successful shots, closing the gap to 72-69 after a Rozier three-pointer with 1:45 left.

Nebraska regained control in the final moments, scoring on consecutive possessions to secure the 80-73 win. The victory extends the Cornhuskers’ win streak to 11 games, the longest active streak in the nation. Nebraska’s mix of efficient shooting, balanced scoring, and late-game execution proved key to holding off Winthrop’s comeback attempt.

After this tough contest, Winthrop will host South Carolina State on Saturday. Nebraska will return home to face South Carolina Upstate. Both teams will look to build on their performances, with Nebraska aiming to maintain its perfect start and Winthrop trying to rebound from the close loss.

Rienk Mast’s scoring explosion in the second half highlights Nebraska’s offensive depth and resilience. Combined with contributions from Frager, Jacobsen, and strong team execution, the Cornhuskers continue to showcase their potential this season. Winthrop, despite the loss, showed fight and competitive spirit, making it an exciting game for fans.