Dusty May and Michigan Basketball will host an undefeated Nebraska team tomorrow night in a battle of Big Ten powers.
Michigan head coach Dusty May didn’t mince words when discussing Tuesday night’s matchup with Nebraska. This isn’t just another Big Ten game — it’s a litmus test against one of the most complete teams in the country.
“From a short-term standpoint, you’re competing against teams that are tied with you or above you in the standings,” May said. “If you want to be in position at the end of the year, you have to take care of business.”
Nebraska arrives in Ann Arbor undefeated and backed by elite national respect. Some polls have the Huskers ranked as high as No. 2, while several metrics place them firmly in the top five. But for May, the praise goes beyond rankings. What stands out most is how well Nebraska functions as a unit.
“They’re as disciplined, as connected as any team we’ve seen all year,” May said. “Their role definition is outstanding. Everybody brings their own special sauce to the equation.”
That cohesion has been fueled by a roster built smartly through the transfer portal. May pointed specifically to players Michigan fans will recognize. Guard Bryce Sandiford impressed the Wolverines a year ago while at Iowa. Berke Büyüktuncel, the former UCLA forward, adds versatility. Rienk Mast’s return has solidified the interior. Jamarques Lawrence, back with the program after a stint at Rhode Island, has emerged as an efficient, steady contributor.
And then there’s Sam Hoiberg.
“A big portion of their success should be attributed to Sam Hoiberg,” May said. “He does as many invisible and tangible plays as anyone in our league. He brings winning qualities and a team-first mindset.”
Beyond personnel, Nebraska’s style presents serious tactical challenges. The Huskers play a five-out system, push the tempo, and are lethal in transition — especially from three-point range. May noted Nebraska may be the best team in the country at generating transition threes, a dangerous combination against any defense, even one with Michigan’s size and rim protection.
“If you run back to the paint in transition, you’re going to be looking around trying to find someone to guard,” May explained. “We have to be communicating, getting matched up early, and we’re going to have to change coverages.”
For Michigan, the formula for competing is clear. It starts with protecting the basketball. May emphasized that turnovers not only waste possessions, but also undermine two of Michigan’s strengths: efficient two-point shooting and rebounding. When the Wolverines are at their best, they’re unselfish, connected, and disruptive defensively.
That version of Michigan, May believes, can go toe-to-toe with anyone — even an undefeated contender.
“Nebraska is good at a lot of things,” he said. “So we’re going to have to play really, really well. But if we play our brand of basketball, we’ll be in position.”
Tuesday night won’t decide the Big Ten race. But it will reveal exactly where Michigan stands.