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Cornhuskers Dominate with Stellar Shooting, Advance to Face Illinois in Second Round
The Nebraska women’s basketball team kicked off their Big Ten Tournament campaign in style, securing an emphatic 84-60 victory over Rutgers on Wednesday night. Led by Alexis Markowski’s 19 points and 10 rebounds, the 10th-seeded Cornhuskers showcased their depth and shooting prowess to advance to the second round.
Markowski Shines in Dominant Performance
Alexis Markowski, Nebraska’s standout center, recorded her 51st career double-double, further cementing her legacy in the program’s record books. Her 14 first-half points, including five during a crucial 11-0 run, helped the Cornhuskers establish an early lead they never relinquished.
Markowski wasn’t alone in her efforts. Amiah Hargrove added 13 points, while Alberte Rimdal contributed 12 off the bench. Freshman Britt Prince also made her presence felt with 10 points and five assists, showcasing the team’s balanced attack.
Three-Point Barrage Seals the Win
Nebraska’s shooting was nothing short of spectacular. The team shot 55% from the field and connected on 13 of 31 three-point attempts, with eight different players hitting from beyond the arc. Markowski, Prince, Hargrove, and Rimdal each knocked down two three-pointers, while Logan Nissley also added to the long-range assault.
The Cornhuskers’ hot shooting was on full display in the first half, where they drained eight three-pointers to take a commanding 39-24 lead into halftime. The second half was more of the same, as Nebraska extended their lead to 61-37 by the end of the third quarter, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Rutgers’ Valiant Effort Falls Short
Despite the lopsided score, Rutgers had some bright spots. Destiny Adams was a perfect 13-of-13 from the free-throw line, finishing with a game-high 25 points and 10 rebounds. Awa Sidibe and Mya Petticord each added 11 points, but the Scarlet Knights struggled to keep pace with Nebraska’s offensive firepower.
Rutgers shot just 36% from the field and made only five three-pointers, though they did finish strong with a 23-point fourth quarter. However, it was too little, too late to mount a comeback.
Looking Ahead: Nebraska vs. Illinois
With the win, Nebraska (20-10) advances to the second round of the Big Ten Tournament, where they will face seventh-seeded Illinois. The Cornhuskers lost to the Fighting Illini by nine points in their previous meeting this season, setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch.
If Nebraska can replicate their shooting performance from Wednesday night, they’ll be a tough out in the tournament. The game tips off on Thursday, and fans are eager to see if the Cornhuskers can continue their postseason run.
Why This Win Matters
This victory not only extends Nebraska’s season but also highlights the team’s growth and resilience. With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Cornhuskers are proving they can compete with the best in the Big Ten.
For Alexis Markowski, this game was another reminder of her dominance on the court. Her 51st double-double is a testament to her consistency and impact, and she’ll be a key player as Nebraska looks to make a deep tournament run.