Pryce Sandfort Makes Triumphant Return to Iowa

Pryce Sandfort is set to make a notable return to Iowa, where he played 65 games over two seasons before transferring to Nebraska in April 2025. Sandfort, a junior forward standing 6-foot-7, has emerged as a key player for the Huskers, leading the team with an impressive average of 17.5 points per game. He showcased his skills with a standout performance, scoring 29 points in recent victory over Northwestern.

Pryce Sandfort’s Background and Performance

At Waukee Northwest High School, Pryce Sandfort thrived, earning the title of Iowa Mr. Basketball in 2003. He averaged 24.9 points and 11.0 rebounds per game while leading his team to the Class 4A state championship. Sandfort followed in the footsteps of his brother, Payton, who played for Iowa from 2002-2005 and was named to the All-Big Ten team.

This season, Sandfort’s shooting ability has been pivotal. He boasts a 40.2% success rate from three-point range. When he finds his rhythm, Nebraska’s offense flourishes.

Nebraska vs. Iowa: Key Matchup

Nebraska (22-3, 11-3 Big Ten) is set to face Iowa (18-7, 8-6) on Tuesday at 8 p.m. CT at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. This matchup follows recent struggles for both teams, with Nebraska losing a close game to Purdue and Iowa suffering a heavy defeat at the hands of the Boilermakers.

Recent Performance of Both Teams

• Nebraska is currently ranked 7th in the AP Top 25 Poll and a 3-seed in the latest Bracketology.
• Iowa ranks 27th in the AP Top 25 Poll and is projected as an 8-seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

Historically, Nebraska has struggled against Iowa, holding a 11-20 record in their all-time series. The Huskers aim to break a three-game losing streak against the Hawkeyes, making this match a crucial opportunity for redemption and boosting their NCAA Tournament aspirations.

Coaching and Team Dynamics

Fred Hoiberg has transformed Nebraska’s program and is being considered for national coach of the year honors due to the team’s impressive season. Meanwhile, Iowa’s first-year coach Ben McCollum steps in following Fran McCaffery’s long tenure as the Hawkeyes’ head coach.

With the upcoming match against Iowa, all eyes will be on Sandfort. His performance against his former team may play a pivotal role in determining the game’s outcome.

Upcoming Games

Following the Iowa matchup, Nebraska will host Penn State on Saturday at 1 p.m. CT. The Nittany Lions have shown resilience, making them a potential challenge despite their current record.

As the season continues to unfold, strategies and player performances will be critical as teams vie for positions in the NCAA Tournament.