Pryce Sandfort Turned Down the NBA to Finish What He Started at Nebraska

Here's a decision that makes you respect a player's long-term thinking: Pryce Sandfort, the 3-point sniper who just led Nebraska to its first NCAA Tournament win and a Sweet 16 run, is coming back for another season instead of taking the NBA leap. The school announced it on Monday, and honestly, it says something about where Sandfort's head is at.

The Breakout Year That Changed Everything

Sandfort transferred to Nebraska after two years at Iowa and had an absolute monster season. He averaged 18.1 points to lead the Huskers, and his range was insane: he was first in the Big Ten and fourth nationally with 3.69 3s per game. Oh, and those 129 3s he made? Most in program history. The AP voters took notice too, naming him All-Big Ten second team. NBA scouts were definitely calling.

Why He's Staying

But here's the thing: Sandfort had multiple NBA teams interested, and he still said no. Coach Fred Hoiberg explained it perfectly. "He feels like we have a lot of unfinished business after this year," Hoiberg said on X. "He wants to solidify his legacy in Lincoln and put himself in the best position for a long professional career. It's a testament to him for betting on himself and wanting to do it here at Nebraska."

That's the move right there. One more year to refine the craft, build on what he's already proven, and leave Nebraska better than he found it. Plenty of players would've bolted. Sandfort's staying to finish the job.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.