BREAKING: Senior Brice Williams scored 21 points to set the single-season scoring record for Nebraska and the Cornhuskers out-rallied UCF for a 77-66 victory in the championship game of the College Basketball Crown at T-Mobile Arena…
Las Vegas, NV — In a thrilling conclusion to the College Basketball Crown tournament at T-Mobile Arena, Nebraska senior Brice Williams delivered a historic performance, scoring 21 points to break the school’s single-season scoring record and lead the Cornhuskers to a 77-66 victory over UCF in the championship game.
The win capped off a remarkable season for both Williams and the Huskers, who overcame a slow start and a tenacious Knights squad to secure the title. With his final bucket midway through the second half, Williams surpassed the previous record of 671 points, etching his name in Nebraska basketball history.
“I knew I was close, but honestly, I was more focused on getting the win,” said Williams, moments after hoisting the championship trophy. “Breaking the record means a lot, but doing it in a game like this, on this stage, with my brothers—it’s unforgettable.”
Williams’ consistent scoring all season long has been a cornerstone of Nebraska’s success. Entering the night just six points shy of the record, the senior wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, scoring seven of Nebraska’s first 15 points. His 21-point effort also included 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and a crucial defensive stop late in the game that helped swing the momentum in Nebraska’s favor.
The Cornhuskers (28-8) trailed by as many as 10 in the first half, as UCF’s dynamic backcourt duo of Darius Johnson and Jaylin Sellers kept the pressure on. Johnson finished with 18 points and 6 assists, while Sellers added 14, including a deep three-pointer that gave UCF a 36-30 lead heading into halftime.
But Nebraska came out swinging in the second half, sparked by a 13-2 run fueled by Williams, Juwan Gary, and Keisei Tominaga. Gary added 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Tominaga lit up the arena with three second-half triples that ignited the red-clad Nebraska fans in attendance.
Head coach Fred Hoiberg praised his team’s resilience and Williams’ leadership after the game.
“This team has battled all year, and Brice has been our heart,” Hoiberg said. “To see him break the record in a championship atmosphere, it’s just poetic. We knew this group was special, and tonight they proved it.”
The win gives Nebraska its first postseason tournament title since the 1996 NIT, and adds another milestone to a season full of breakthroughs. With Williams’ record-setting performance and the team’s championship win, the Huskers are already looking toward next season with renewed confidence and momentum.
UCF head coach Johnny Dawkins acknowledged Nebraska’s strong finish. “We played well in the first half, but give credit to Nebraska—they came out aggressive and made big plays when it mattered,” Dawkins said.
As confetti rained down in Las Vegas, Williams was named Tournament MVP, a fitting end to a standout season. With NBA scouts watching closely and his college career drawing to a close, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence—and a record that may stand for years to come.
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