Nebraska learned the difficulty of the nation's second-toughest conference when the Big 12 issued the Huskers a schedule that included two dates with Kansas over the first four games.

That 0-4 start raised questions concerning Nebraska's competitiveness, but second-year coach Doc Sadler was never deterred.

He too recognized the early schedule offered few breaks but was confident the Huskers not only could climb out of the cellar but make some lasting impressions against conference rivals.

Their late run, which included four wins in their last six regular-season games, resulted in an NIT bid. Nebraska finished 20-13, just the 12th 20-win season in the 112-year history of the program.

Obviously, it's still not the level Sadler wants his program to attain, but the former Texas-El Paso coach is quickly positioning himself as a coach who can field dangerous teams in the Big 12.

He gambled by redshirting four potential contributors in order to build talent and numbers. Instead of inserting them in 2007-08, he relied on senior center Aleks Maric to come through underneath while surrounded by a four-guard lineup.

At times Nebraska paid for its lack of size and was pounded underneath. But eventually the young backcourt understood its role and took turns overachieving. Maric, meanwhile, was steady inside and finished his Nebraska career fifth in scoring and second in rebounding.

Next season promises to offer a different blend of players. Sadler knows the Huskers must pose more of a threat on offense, though his teams will continue to rely on salty defense.

"These other guys have a chance to do something, with as many guys coming back as we've got," Sadler said. "We can't be satisfied."

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