By Alex Woelich, OMAHA, Neb. – Just two years ago, the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks found themselves at the bottom of the Summit League standings, struggling to find consistency. Fast forward to 2025, and the Mavericks are now conference champions, riding an incredible season that has landed them a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
It’s a story of resilience, seniors burning bright and trash can destruction.
A Championship Team in the Making
The Mavericks started their winning their first 2 games before falling into a 5-game losing streak that left many doubts hanging over the Mavericks. After a few trashcan destructions, the Mavericks found themselves pulling off a 9-game win streak which left doubters stunned, and UNO topping the Summit league adding onto this record setting season for UNO.
The Seniors making headway
UNO’s turnaround isn’t just impressive—it’s historic. In 2023, in Coach Crutchfield’s first season at UNO the team finished bottom of the Summit standings, with rebuilding seeming like a long-term process. However, with many stars like JJ white and Marquel Sutton and more deciding to stay instead of playing the transfer portal, UNO found the backs from which change can occur within the culture of UNO basketball.
Players like JJ white, stepping up in crucial moments, with game-winning shots, clutch performances, and leadership that inspired a team on a mission.
JJ White: “Had a rough start the first two years I’ve been here. lotta trials lotta tribulation, went through a lot of losses and a lot of wins, words can’t describe how it feels to be in this position with my teammates”
A New culture in Omaha basketball
While the Mavericks have always been seen as the little brother between Creighton and Lincoln, but this season Omaha has cemented themselves into the conversations for the first time in years, silencing many who doubted the mavericks. Crutchfield a former player in his own right leading the team and its seniors have reignited the fire within maverick basketball as they aim to make a splash in the NCAA tournament.
UNO’s name appearing in the tournament bracket is a dream come true for many of the players on this team. Some could even say a tournament berth this season is a representation of the mavericks defying expectations not only for fans but for themselves as well.
As the Mavericks prepare to step onto the national stage, one thing is certain: they’ve already made history. And if this season has proven anything, it’s that the Mavericks have a chip on their shoulder and are hungry to prove themselves again.
Stay Tuned
UNO will find out their first-round opponent on Selection Sunday, and fans across Omaha—and beyond—will be watching closely. Can the Mavericks keep the magic going? If this season is any indication, count them out at your own risk, and watch your trashcans when UNO is coming to town.
