JUST IN: Nebraska Cornhuskers in Prime Position to Land Star Guard D.J. Wagner
In a move that could shake up the college basketball landscape, sources close to the Nebraska Cornhuskers program reveal that Fred Hoiberg’s squad is in excellent position to land one of the top transfer targets in the country — D.J. Wagner. The 6-foot-3, 175-pound guard, formerly of the Kentucky Wildcats, has entered the transfer portal amid speculation of a change in direction under new leadership in Lexington. Nebraska, meanwhile, has emerged as a surprisingly strong contender to land the electrifying combo guard.
Wagner, a former five-star recruit out of Camden High School in New Jersey, was ranked as one of the top prospects in the 2023 class. He showed flashes of brilliance in his freshman season at Kentucky, averaging 9.3 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per game while battling through a crowded backcourt rotation. His lightning-quick first step, fearless drives to the rim, and evolving perimeter game make him a high-upside weapon — and Nebraska sees the potential.
“D.J. is exactly the kind of guard we’ve been targeting — versatile, tough, experienced in big games,” said a Cornhuskers assistant coach under anonymity. “We’ve made it clear: come to Lincoln, and we’ll put the ball in your hands.”
The Huskers have aggressively retooled their roster this offseason, and Wagner’s addition could catapult them into Big Ten contention. With returning star Rienk Mast anchoring the frontcourt and dynamic wing Brice Williams providing veteran presence, Wagner could be the missing piece — a downhill guard who can generate offense late in the shot clock and defend both guard positions.
Nebraska has pulled out all the stops in their pitch. Wagner was seen visiting the campus last weekend, where he toured the Hendricks Training Complex, met with academic advisors, and took in a private film session with Hoiberg and the staff. Sources say Wagner and Hoiberg discussed a featured role in the offense — a blueprint similar to how Hoiberg utilized guards like Tyrese Haliburton during his Iowa State days.
Though Louisville and USC remain in the mix, Nebraska’s momentum is undeniable. The coaching staff’s NBA experience, the modern offensive system, and the promise of immediate playing time may be enough to convince Wagner that Lincoln is the ideal launchpad for his sophomore resurgence — and future professional ambitions.
Wagner, whose grandfather Milt and father Dajuan both played in the NBA, is no stranger to the expectations placed on basketball prodigies. Now, he faces the biggest decision of his young career — and the Cornhuskers are waiting with open arms.
Should the deal go through, Nebraska would not only gain a top-tier guard but also send a message to the college basketball world: the days of sleeping on the Cornhuskers are over. The Big Ten may soon have a new powerhouse rising in the plains — and it might be powered by D.J. Wagner.
