In a move that surprised many within the Nebraska basketball program, Head Coach Fred Hoiberg has reportedly pushed back on staff recommendations for a roster overhaul, opting instead to bring back the majority of last season’s players. His reason? “Unfinished business.”According to multiple sources within the program, Hoiberg was presented with several strategic options by his coaching staff during postseason evaluations. These included introducing fresh talent through the transfer portal and focusing on younger, more athletic recruits. However, Hoiberg stood firm in his conviction to retain the core group of returning players, many of whom had developed significantly over the past year.
“The chemistry we built last season, especially during the final stretch, is something you can’t coach or replicate overnight,” Hoiberg reportedly told staff in a closed-door meeting. “We were right there. We’re not starting over — we’re picking up where we left off.”
Nebraska finished the 2024–25 season with one of its most promising records in recent memory, narrowly missing the NCAA Tournament but securing a strong showing in the NIT. The team demonstrated grit, resilience, and a growing confidence under Hoiberg’s system — factors the coach believes will translate into success with continuity.
Key players expected to return include guard Keisei Tominaga, forward Rienk Mast, and point guard Jamarques Lawrence — all of whom played pivotal roles last season. While some had the option to explore professional opportunities or transfer, Hoiberg’s belief in the group’s potential appears to have swayed decisions.
“Fred believes this group can do something special,” one team insider said. “He sees what’s coming together — not just on the stat sheet, but in how these guys fight for each other.”
Critics of the decision argue that college basketball’s rapid evolution through the transfer portal demands a more aggressive approach to roster changes. But for Hoiberg, the answer lies in loyalty, belief, and a drive to finish what they started.