Nebraska men’s basketball returned to action from a COVID-19 pause Thursday, falling to No. 11 Wisconsin 73-65 in the first game in 10 days.

The Huskers (6-14, 0-9 Big Ten) started out on fire, going 5-for-5 from the floor to race to an 11-10 lead early. But scoring droughts would again hamper the Huskers.

Nebraska didn’t make a field goal for a nearly five minute stretch in the first half, allowing Wisconsin (16-3, 7-2) to pull away for a 39-31 halftime lead. Out of the break, a Lat Mayen dunk 12 seconds in was the only Nebraska field goal for the first 8:52.

The Badgers stretched their lead to 18, and fended off a late surge to take the victory in Lincoln.

Wisconsin made nine of their 10 3s in the game in the first half. Five of those went to Brad Davison, with another three to native Nebraskan Chucky Hepburn.

Nebraska shot 40 percent from the floor, including 7-of-20 from deep.

Bryce McGowens scored a game-high 23 points. Lat Mayen and Alonzo Verge Jr. each chipped in 11 points.

Nebraska stays at home Saturday to host Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights were victorious over the Huskers earlier this season 93-65.

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