Nebraska’s Braden Frager shoots a three over Midland’s Amari Rahaman. (Courtesy: Nebraska Athletics)
Nebraska Rolls Past Midland 91–50 in Exhibition Tune-Up Behind Frager’s Breakout Performance
LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska men’s basketball cruised to a 91–50 win over Midland University in its second exhibition on Tuesday night, but it was freshman forward Braden Frager who stole the show with a hot shooting hand and an all-around performance that caught the attention of head coach Fred Hoiberg.
Frager led the Huskers’ offensive charge, burying six 3-pointers on his way to a game-high scoring night. His rhythm from deep and energy on both ends helped Nebraska pull away early and never look back.
“This was a very important game for Braden, to see that thing go in the hoop,” Hoiberg said. “Hopefully it’s a confidence builder for him heading into the opener.”
Frager’s breakout wasn’t just about the points, though. The sophomore added two blocks and two steals, showcasing the defensive edge he’s worked to develop.
“I kind of like to focus on defense,” Frager said after the game. “I’d like to hit six threes every game, but I know that isn’t gonna happen, so I have to affect the game in other ways than just scoring.”
Hoiberg praised Frager’s aggressiveness and ability to take over stretches of the game with his shot-making.
“This is what Braden can do — he can really get it going,” Hoiberg said. “He’s very streaky when he gets hot like that. It’s almost like there’s nobody else on the floor but him.”
The exhibition also marked the Nebraska debut for Central Michigan transfer Ugnius “Oogie” Jarusevicius, who logged eight minutes in his first action as a Husker.
“It was good to get him out there,” Hoiberg said. “He’s been very limited in practice. We’re going to need Oogie this year with his body and size.”
The Huskers dominated in transition, shared the ball efficiently, and held Midland to 35 percent shooting while forcing 20 turnovers. The win offered a final tune-up before Nebraska opens the regular season next week at Pinnacle Bank Arena.
With Frager’s confidence soaring and several newcomers seeing the floor for the first time, Hoiberg said the team took a meaningful step forward.
“It was a good preseason for us,” Hoiberg said. “And now the fun begins.”