Upsets Abound as Top College Basketball Teams Fall to Unranked Opponents
By Braden Hirschi
Published January 10, 2024
In a surprising turn of events, the No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers suffered an 88-72 loss to unranked Nebraska. This upset marked the first time since Feb. 6, 2016, that the top two teams in the AP men's college basketball poll lost to unranked opponents on the same day. The last time this occurred was a rarity in the poll's history, happening only eight times.
Game Highlights
Nebraska matched Purdue shot for shot in the first half and finished the period with a 13-0 run, leading by 11 at halftime. Although Purdue cut Nebraska's lead to one within the first six minutes of the second half, the Cornhuskers responded with a 14-2 run, maintaining a significant lead for the rest of the game. Nebraska finished strong with an 11-2 run, securing their historic victory.
Impressive Performance by Nebraska
Nebraska's remarkable 14-for-23 shooting from 3-point range, with seven players contributing from behind the arc, played a pivotal role in their victory. Keisei Tominaga led the team with 19 points, while Rienk Mast scored 18. This win marked Nebraska's first victory over an AP No. 1 team since 1982, making it their fourth such win in program history.
Houston's First Loss
In another unexpected upset, the No. 2 Houston Cougars suffered their first loss of the season, falling to unranked Iowa State 57-53. This loss opened the door for No. 3 Kansas to potentially return to the top spot in the rankings.
Iowa State's Strong Start
Iowa State's strong start with a 14-0 lead and forcing 12 first-half turnovers set the tone for the game. Although Houston made a late push, the Cyclones ultimately secured the win with a contested fadeaway and crucial free throws in the final minute.
Implications for Kansas
Following the losses by Purdue and Houston, the No. 3 Kansas Jayhawks have an opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the rankings. With a record of 13-1, Kansas is poised to capitalize on the unexpected defeats of the top two teams.
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