NBA legend speaks to Nebraska basketball team after senior night victory

An NBA legend spoke to the Nebraska men’s basketball team after their victory on Sunday night.

An NBA legend spoke to the Nebraska men’s basketball team after their victory on Sunday night. Hall of Famer Kevin McHale spoke to the team after their 67-56 senior night victory.

McHale played for the Boston Celtics from 1980-1993. He was a seven-time All-Star and three-time NBA Champion.

He was also a member of both the NBA’s 50th and 75th-anniversary teams. The former Celtic coached Hoiberg when the Husker head coach played in the NBA and helped when he transitioned to the front office/coaching.

McHale started his talk to the team by focusing on their effort early in the game.

Great job. Great effort. It’s fun watching you guys play basketball. That first five minutes, everyone had their their hands up. You were moving, you helped, if you got beat on a play you didn’t quit on the play.

You guys went after it. You offensively rebounded. You set the tone right away. It was fun to watch you guys play. This is the fun time. You’ve got Michigan coming up, now go kick their (butt) and win (game) number 22. Every night you guys play after that, you guys are going to be a hard out.  You guys play that hard. It’s going to take someone special to be you.

He also discussed how happy he is for his former protege and his team heading into the postseason.

 I like that fact that you guys fought together, you rallied together. I was really happy to see you guys play. I’m really happy for Freddy (Hoiberg). I’m really happy for you guys. The big thing about it, is how good can you make your teammates.

Nebraska will wrap up the regular season on Saturday, March 10, at Michigan. The tip-off is set for 11:00 am.

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