Nebraska’s men’s basketball team will travel to Chicago on Sunday, November 22, 2025, to meet the Butler Bulldogs at Credit Union 1 Arena. The neutral‑site contest marks the Huskers’ fourth such game this season and serves as a high‑profile opener before the Big Ten schedule begins in December.
A Test Before the Big Ten
The matchup continues a series that favors Nebraska, which holds a 3‑1 edge over Butler. The most recent encounter came in the 2019 NIT first round, where the Huskers edged the Bulldogs 80‑76. This will be the first regular‑season meeting between the programs since December 1986, adding a layer of intrigue for fans of both schools.
Butler will be led by head coach Ronald Nored, who transitioned to the college ranks after a stint in the NBA and years working alongside Indiana Pacers veteran Rick Carlisle. Nored’s appointment brings a fresh tactical perspective to the Bulldogs as they look to build on a 16‑16 finish in the 2023‑24 season, their second‑best campaign since the pandemic‑shortened 2020‑21 year.
The Bulldogs enter the game with a roster that blends five returning players from last season with seven newcomers for the 2025‑26 campaign. The depth added this offseason is intended to restore Butler’s competitive edge and challenge the Huskers on their home court in Chicago.
Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg expressed enthusiasm about bringing the team to Chicago, noting the opportunity to engage with local fans and alumni. He emphasized that the neutral‑site game is part of a broader strategy to test the Huskers against diverse competition before conference play.