Lincoln, NE – May 13, 2025
In an announcement that has set the sports world on fire, the Nebraska Cornhuskers men’s basketball team is officially rekindling its historic rivalry with their greatest opponent — the Iowa State Cyclones — in what is being dubbed the “Cornfield Crown” series. After nearly 30 years of dormancy, these two powerhouse programs are returning to battle for bragging rights, glory, and an epic trophy that will forever define their supremacy in the Midwest.
The announcement came earlier today from Nebraska Athletic Director Trev Alberts and Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard during a joint press conference broadcasted live from the Memorial Stadium. The rivalry, which dates back to the late 1950s, had been suspended in the early 1990s due to scheduling conflicts, conference realignment, and a growing sense of “peace” between the two schools. But, in an unexpected turn, the two schools have decided the time has come to revive what many are calling the greatest rivalry in college basketball history.
A New Era for the “Cornfield Crown”
The “Cornfield Crown” will feature two games per season: one held at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska, and the other at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa. These annual matchups will now determine who takes home the newly minted Cornfield Crown Trophy, a 6-foot golden corn stalk symbolizing strength, resilience, and the unique spirit of the Midwest.
“We’ve had enough of these friendly games,” said Alberts, his face grinning from ear to ear. “Nebraska vs. Iowa State basketball is about intensity, passion, and bragging rights. It’s a battle that has defined the heart of the Big 12 rivalry for decades, and we’re ready to bring it back in full force.”
Pollard echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the long-term historical significance. “This is more than just a game. It’s about the pride of the Cornhusker and Cyclone nations. It’s about the heart and soul of the Midwest. And it’s about time these two schools remembered who truly owns the Midwest basketball crown.”
Fans Rejoice: The Return of the Cornfield Rivalry
The news has caused a surge in excitement from both Nebraska and Iowa State fans alike. Social media exploded with jubilation, with hashtags like #CornfieldCrown, #BattleForTheCorn, and #CyclonesVsHuskers trending nationally.
“I’m so pumped! I remember the intensity of those old games in the ’80s,” said Brad Anderson, a lifelong Nebraska fan. “My granddad used to talk about the Huskers and Cyclones going at it on the court. Now my kids are going to experience it. It’s the best news we’ve heard in years.”
Iowa State fans were equally thrilled. “Finally, we get to show Nebraska what it means to be a true basketball power in the Midwest. We’ve been waiting for this,” said Cyclones supporter Natalie Smith. “The Cornfield Crown will be the greatest trophy in college hoops.”
What to Expect on the Court: The Rivalry Heats Up
When asked about what fans can expect from the revived rivalry, Nebraska head coach Fred Hoiberg was enthusiastic. “This is going to be a showdown every single time. Both programs have a storied history and passionate fanbases. The atmosphere in those arenas will be electric, and the competition will be second to none. We’ve got a lot of new talent coming in, and I know our players are already fired up to take on Iowa State.”
Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger also expressed his excitement, noting that the games would be more than just a battle on the court. “This isn’t just basketball; this is pride. Nebraska and Iowa State have a history that goes beyond sports. The Cornfield Crown represents something deeper than the game itself. We’re going to fight tooth and nail for that trophy every year.”
The Return of a Rivalry Like No Other
For those who may not remember, the Nebraska vs. Iowa State basketball rivalry was legendary in the 1970s and 1980s. The two teams regularly clashed for supremacy in the Big 8 Conference, with both sides frequently making deep runs in the NCAA tournament. It was a rivalry marked by gritty, hard-nosed play and an unrelenting desire to outdo the other. Some of the most intense moments in college basketball came from these matchups, with buzzer-beaters, fiery bench-clearing incidents, and unforgettable performances from star players.
For example, in 1983, Nebraska’s legendary point guard, Terry Maughn, hit a game-winning three-pointer with 0.3 seconds left to knock Iowa State out of the conference tournament. That moment remains one of the greatest in Nebraska basketball history, and Iowa State fans still talk about the loss with a mix of rage and admiration.
The Cornfield Crown Trophy: A Symbol of Midwest Glory
The new Cornfield Crown Trophy, designed by the prestigious Morris Design Group out of Lincoln, features a towering golden corn stalk with a basketball at its peak, symbolizing the combination of agriculture and athletics that defines both states. The trophy, which stands at an impressive 6 feet tall, will be housed at the winning team’s home arena until the next season’s contest. The trophy will be awarded at the conclusion of each home-and-home series, and fans can expect a high-octane, celebratory ceremony after each victory.
What’s Next?
The first official Cornfield Crown game will take place on December 5, 2025, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Both teams will face off in a nationally televised event, with an anticipated crowd of over 18,000 fans expected at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Tickets for the game are expected to sell out in record time, and special events, including a fan fest and halftime performances, are already being planned.
“This is going to be the game of the year, every year,” said Alberts, with a grin. “Nebraska and Iowa State will once again be the eyes of the basketball world.”
