LINCOLN, NE&nbsp;– A day of wild winter weather has resulted in school and event cancellations, snow-packed roads, blizzard conditions, power outages, downed trees and other challenges across the state. Governor Jim Pillen said his office and relevant state agencies will continue to monitor ongoing conditions. In addition to state services, officials have been in contact with power companies, as they work to restore electricity to their customers.&nbsp;

Interstate 80 has been closed across a wide swath of Nebraska in both the east and westbound lanes, due to impassable conditions caused by low visibility, snow debris, downed powerlines and vehicles left on the roadway. The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has deployed additional resources to the areas impacted most by this storm and are dedicated to restoring travel as conditions improve.

All motorists should limit travel, if possible, which will allow first responders and essential workers to continue their work. Drivers can stay up to date on the latest road closures at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.511.nebraska.gov/">https://www.511.nebraska.gov</a>. There, users will find a map with the most recent road conditions, including links to cameras.

Anyone who finds themselves stranded or in need of assistance can dial *55 or 1-800-525-5555 to reach the Nebraska State Patrol's Highway Helpline. As of 5pm today, state troopers have responded to 22 crashes and 342 motorist assists across the state.

Individuals experiencing other emergencies resulting from the recent weather should call 911 for local emergency response service.

Gov. Pillen and State Agencies Continue to Monitor Weather Response  

North Platte, Neb. - People's Health in North Platte is back again to education young adults with their focus this time around on high school students with the annual Wild Night. This event is taking place Friday at Wild Bills from 4:00pm - 6:00pm.

Students have the opportunity to attend the event and earn a passport card and attend all the different agencies to learn. The event is geared around health. After students complete their passport, they will get a card and that card can get them free laser tag, bowling and pizza. Their will be raffles and giveaways. Students are asked to bring their HS ID with them

POST Canon Rath chatted with Elizabeth Thayer about the upcoming event. To learn more, checkout the podcast below.

(Audio) People's Health gearing up for Wild Night at Wild Bills this Friday

North Platte, Neb. - The North Platte city council held a regular meeting on March 18th and different agendas were discussed amongst the council. Topics this session included adopt resolution to approve the one and six road plan for 2024-2030, accept the certification of completion for street improvement district No. 362 (Willow Street Bridge over UPRR) and more.&nbsp;

Post Canon Rath chatted with North Platte Mayor Brandon Kelliher about the different topics from the council meeting. If you would like to learn more in-depth of what went on during the March 18th, North Platte City Council meeting check out the podcast below or check out the video below the podcast.

(Audio) North Platte City Council Meeting, March 18th recap

North Platte, Ne - March is National Agriculture Month, and Eagle Media is spotlighting businesses and organizations giving back to agriculure this month. For years, homeschool students either had to take a minimum number of classes at public schools to participate in Future Farmers of America, or missed out entirely. Now a new Nebraska Agriculture Acadamy has entered the picture over the last few years. It started with former public school teachers Breann Zimmer, and Ann Dvorak in 2022 and they ave since been joined by Katie Shadbolt who are all Nebraska Certified Agriculture Educators. The three teamed up to create an online agriculture education academy for homeschool students.

Zimmer, who joined Derek Beck this week on Sandhills Spotlight on Z 93.5 Country says, "The Nebraska Agriculture Academy provides hybrid education to students grades 7-12. Our goal is to make it possible for homeschool students across Nebraska to participate in FFA and learn about agriculture."

Get more information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.neagacademy.com/">here</a>. Enjoy the conversation with Zimmer and Derek Beck.

(Podcast) Homeschool Students can get agriculture classes and join FFA in Nebraska

The spring semester is here and People's Health is once again making their way over to NPCC for this semester STD and Tacos. The event is for college students only and runs from 11:00am - 1:00pm in the NPCC Health Building room #25. 

Students can get tested for STD's, learn educational facts about sexual activity and more. West Central District Health Department will be on location to provide vaccines.

POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Elizabeth Thayer about the upcoming event. To learn more, check out the podcast below.

(Audio) People's Health STD and Taco event for NPCC students on Wednesday

POST news director had the chance to talk with North Platte native and Saturday's main even Jayson Scott about this weekends fights. The pair discuss training preparation, Scott's background and more. To learn more check out the podcast below.

(Audio) MCF 28 St. Paddy's Beatdown XIII - Jayson Scott

North Platte, Neb. - It's the time of the year when the Sandhill Cranes migration journey begins with plenty of them stopping in North Platte, Lincoln County and you can venture out to see the Sandhill Crane Migration. This year, Dusty Trails is offering tours with different parts of the day to check out this yearly migration. During the tour, you will learn about the birds and so much more. <a href="https://www.dustytrails.biz/sandhill-crane-tours">To sign up for a tour click here</a>. You can also check out the Prairie Chickens during this time and tours are available as well.&nbsp;

Nominations are now open for the North Platte Area Excellence in Tourism Awards but not a whole lot of time is left to get your nominations in. You can nominate someone in the following categories:&nbsp;

If you would like to nominate someone,<a href="https://form.jotform.com/250224323569151"> click here.</a>&nbsp;

POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Lisa Burke, the Executive Director of Visit North Platte about the Sandhill Cranes, Prairie Chickens, Excellence in Tourism awards and more! To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Sandhill Cranes migration coming to the area, prairie chickens and nominations for Excellence in Tourism Awards!

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, we sat down with Jacob Brandl, the Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss last week's end-of-season games against Otero and Trinidad State while getting you prepared for Postseason Basketball.

(Audio) Knight's Weekly #10 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

North Platte, Neb. -&nbsp;POST Derek Beck sat down with Holly Carlini from the Prairie Arts Center to chat about the Carousel Horses Project Carlini has been working on. To learn more, check out the podcast below.

(Audio) Carousel Horses Project with Holly Carlini

North Platte, Neb. - Brave the icy cold water by taking a plunge in this year's 2025 Polar Plunge at Iron Horse Park in North Platte to benefit the Special Olympics Nebraska. The event is Saturday March 8th with registration beginning at 10:00am and the plunge begins at 11:00am. &nbsp;

A minimum of $50 is needed per person before plunging in the water but you can raise more money to earn more cool swag. You can also do the plunge in teams and even wear costumes! You can register at the event, but you can also register online by <a href="https://www.classy.org/campaign/north-platte-polar-plunge-2025/c648957">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;

POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Nathan Veal about the upcoming Polar Plunge. To learn more, check out the podcast below.&nbsp;

(Audio) Registration now open for the 2025 Polar Plunge!

Ogallala, Ne - Grant Jones, owner of Chundy Land &amp; Cattle south of Imperial came on Sandhills Spotlight on February 27 and spoke with Derek Beck about the Jones' SimAngus Bull sale that is coming up on March 15 at Ogallala Livestock. <a href="https://www.chundylandandcattle.com/2025-sale">CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ON SALE</a>

Grant, along with his parents Shawn and Julie formed Chundy Land &amp; Cattle in 2016. This was also the year that the family purchased Bob and Randy Martin’s cow/calf pairs. The following year we had our first production sale in February at Imperial Auction Market. <a href="http://www.npkubota.com">(POST PODCAST sponsored by North Platte Kubota)</a>

Today, the operation consists of Stan and Phyllis Jones, Shawn and Julie Jones and Grant Jones, the sixth generation. Together, they work to maintain and grow this beautiful ranch we call home. The ranch is situated along the Chase and Dundy County lines (Chundy) in southwest Nebraska. They raise corn, soybeans and hay along with their commercial and registered cows. They also operate a small backgrounding lot and finish cattle at yards in Nebraska and Kansas. &nbsp;

Chundy Land & Cattle Company moves 9th Annual Bull sale to Ogallala on March 15

During its annual celebration on March 28, Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation will present David Pederson with its “Above &amp; Beyond Award” for his extraordinary contributions to the Community Foundation and other community causes.

Dave Pederson has distinguished himself by his personal characteristics, the impact of his legal talents and by persistently working to make the North Platte area an even better place to live.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dave Pederson cares about people and important organizations in this part of the world.&nbsp; He looks for opportunities to serve and to make valued contributions.&nbsp;

Our community has benefited by his involvement in important matters, his good judgment and his considerable problem-solving and communication skills.

David has distinguished himself by providing well-regarded professional legal services since 1980 in the North Platte area.&nbsp; The practice of law gave Dave many chances to help people with important situations in their life.

Dave has an extraordinary record of elected and volunteer leadership and service for many vital community organizations.

For almost 30 years, Dave has provided legal service without charge to Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation.&nbsp; He has brought exceptional effort and problem-solving skills to each situation and has helped the Community Foundation grow and increase its philanthropic impact.

Along with his wife Judy, Dave has been generous in charitable giving to many worthy local causes through the Community Foundation.

Dave has served as Board member and as Board chair of Mid-Plains Community College, North Platte Chamber of Commerce, North Platte Public Schools and Great Plains Health.&nbsp; He has played key roles in many major community advances, such as a new high school and expanded hospital facilities and services.

David Pederson receiving Community Foundation Above and Beyond Award

Nebraska Department of Transportation

March 20, 2025 (North Platte, Neb.) — Weather permitting, work will begin March 24 on N-2, from reference post 277.89 to reference post 280.41, and on N-21 from reference post 73.08 to 73.59, and on N-70 from reference post 75.01 to 75.24 according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. 

Paulsen, Inc., of Cozad, is the contractor for this project. Work includes concrete pavement repair, storm sewer, lighting, concrete paving, milling, and asphalt overlay. Traffic will be maintained with traffic shifts, temporary traffic signals, and a pilot car and flaggers. On-street parking will be affected during construction and a 10-foot width restriction will be in effect. Anticipated completion is Sept. 2025. 

The purpose of these projects is to preserve the transportation asset, improve the reliability of the transportation system and perpetuate the mobility of the traveling public. 

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down.

Work will begin on N-2, N-21, and N-70 in Broken Bow

March 20, 2025 (North Platte, Neb.) — Weather permitting, work will resume March 25 on Jeffers Street in North Platte, near the Francis Street, and B Street intersections, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. 

Paulsen, Inc., of Cozad, is the contractor for this project. Finish work to complete the project includes concrete pavement, sidewalk and ADA ramps, seeding, and sodding. Traffic will be maintained with single lane closures. Anticipated completion is May 2025. 

The purpose of this project is to preserve the transportation asset, improve the reliability of the transportation system and perpetuate the mobility of the traveling public. 

Motorists are reminded to drive cautiously in and near work zones, to buckle up, and to put phones down. 

Work will resume on US-83, Jeffers Street in North Platte 

The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors met for its regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 p.m. (CDT) Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Room 200 of the W.W. Wood Building on the North Platte Community College North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte, Neb.

Board Chair Cynthia Duncan started the meeting with a roll call. In addition to Duncan, those present were MPCC President Ryan Purdy and Board members: Matthew Broz, Kirk Crawley, Molly Jeffres, Ted Klug Jr., Dr. Ben Lashley, Megan McGown, Kent Miller, Tyler Pribbeno and&nbsp;Tricia Schaffer. Board member Kim Korgan was absent and excused.

2. OPEN FORUM (Comments from students, faculty, staff, public and Board)&nbsp;

a. MPCC Motor School Program Coordinator Joshua Young gave an overview of the program to the board.

b. Eric Gonzalez was introduced to the board as the new director of accounting.

3. CONSENT ITEMS.&nbsp;On a single consent motion, the board approved:&nbsp;

a. Minutes from January 15, 2025, board work session &amp; regular meeting&nbsp;

d. Resolution for USDA’s Online Financial Reporting &amp; Compliance System

e. Nursing Faculty Retirement, Marina Jones, effective Feb. 20, 2025

a. The Board approved the Dental Assisting Program Review as presented to be forwarded to the Coordinating Commission for Post-Secondary Education.

b. The Board approved the HVAC Program Review as presented to be forwarded to the Coordinating Commission for Post-Secondary Education.

c. The Board approved the bid from JEO Consulting Group Inc. of Omaha to develop a comprehensive regional workforce housing revitalization plan, create a skilled trades workforce inventory and gather data to incentivize developers, inform leaders and assist communities.

d. The Board approved the low bid from Riverside Technologies for the Virtual Desktop Server Upgrade (VDI) in the amount of $137,049.30. 

e. The Board approved the purchase of two one-ton dual rear-wheel pickups from Wagner Chevrolet in the amount of $84,941. &nbsp;

f. The Board approved the bills for January in the amount of $2,075,126.87.

g. The Board approved the February disbursements in the amount of $2,338,297.61.

a. Cabinet Reports: The Board heard reports from MPCC President Ryan Purdy, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Student Affairs and MCC Kelly Rippen, Vice President of Administrative Services Mike Steele, Director of Institutional Effectiveness Tad Pfeifer, Director of Institutional Advancement Haven Smith and Director of Marketing &amp; Public Information Daniel Stinman.

a. The Board went into closed session at 8:02 p.m. to discuss negotiations and real estate. The Board reconvened in open session at 8:38 p.m.

a. The Board approved the negotiated agreement with the Mid-Plains Faculty Association (MPFA) as presented, which includes a 5% total compensation increase for 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic years.

Upon hearing no further business, the Board moved to adjourn at 8:40 p.m. The next Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. April 16 in McCook.

MPCC Board of Governors meeting wrap up report

The Hot Sheets: March 20th, 2025

The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced around 2:30am this morning that I-80 is open in both directions. I-80 closure began yesterday morning from Lexington to Lincoln and as the day went on closures of I-80 went from North Platte to Gretna before finally having I-80 closed from border to border. 

NE 511 shows that Highway 30 is open, however is still closed from Kearney to Shelton. Roads in the Eastern half of the state still show being closed or being worked on by crews. The NDOT states if you have to travel, drive slowly, buckle up and increase following distance.

<a href="https://511.nebraska.gov/@-102.9544,41.99221,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,winterDriving,weatherWarningsAreaEvents,weatherRadar" target="_blank">Click here to check for the latest road conditions on the Nebraska 511 website.</a>

I-80 now open across Nebraska

The Nebraska Department of Transportation announced that I-80 is now closed from North Platte to Gretna. Parts of Highway 30 from North Platte to Grand Island is closed. Many highways out east are closed.&nbsp;

According to the Nebraska 511, I-80 is now closed from North Platte to Lincoln due to the winter weather. Highway 30 is also closed from North Platte to Grand Island. Travel is not advised at this time as crews are working to clean the road.

According to Nebraska 511, I-80 is now open from Cozad to Lexington but is completely covered in slush, ice. I-80 remains closed from Lexington to Lincoln. Crews are out all across the State cleaning up the latest snowstorm to blast Nebraska.&nbsp;

According to Nebraska 511, Highway 30 from Cozad to Lexington is now open but is completely covered in slush, ice. Highway 30 from Lexington to Grand Island remains closed.

NE 511 says expect blowing snow. While travel is still not advised, many highways heading towards Lincoln are closed at this time. NE 511 still shows that I-80 is closed from Cozad to Lincoln.&nbsp;

Winter conditions have once again struck the state of Nebraska and Interstate 80, and Highway 30 are both closed from Cozad to Lincoln according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation 511 website. The closure is due to blizzard conditions. &nbsp;

Visibility is low in some areas due to blowing snow causing almost whiteout conditions. The Nebraska Department of Transportation and the Nebraska State Patrol have stated travel is not advised today. &nbsp;

The storm gets worse as you travel to the Eastern part of the state. If you do need to travel, travel at reduced speeds and give yourself plenty of stopping room as there may be icy spots on the road.&nbsp;

<a href="https://511.nebraska.gov/@-102.9544,41.99221,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,winterDriving,weatherWarningsAreaEvents,weatherRadar" target="_blank">Click here to check for the latest road conditions on the Nebraska 511 website.</a>&nbsp;

(OLD POST) I-80 closed from North Platte to Gretna due to the winter storm, Parts of Highway 30 closed from North Platte to Grand Island

Union Pacific Railroad and the National Conference of Firemen &amp; Oilers (NCFO) announced a tentative agreement that will be sent to NCFO members for ratification. The tentative agreement covers a five-year term and includes wage increases, additional vacation time, health and welfare benefits and minor work rule changes.

“Today's agreement will allow all of us, as railroaders, to focus on the future, growing together and providing the service we sold to our customers,” said Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena. “I want to thank the NCFO leadership for working together through these negotiations.”

Union Pacific and NCFO reached the tentative agreement before the current one expires July 1.

“I want to thank Union Pacific’s Labor Relations and Mechanical teams for their hard work on this agreement,” said NCFO President Michael Pistone. “We need to continue to look at ways to work together, so the NCFO members and Union Pacific can continue to progress into the future.”

Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP) delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe, reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the company connects its customers and communities to the global economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations. More information about Union Pacific is available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.up.com/">www.up.com</a>.

Union Pacific and National Conference of Firemen & Oilers Reach Tentative Agreement

Joplin, Mo. – A long first quarter run helped Illinois Central earn the 82-67 win over North Platte in the consolation bracket of the NJCAA DII Women’s National Championship on Wednesday.

Jada Thompson&nbsp;led the Knights with 22 points and five rebounds, while Nariah Golden chipped in 13 points. EmmaJo Locks rounded out the Knights double-digit scorers with 12 points and six assists.

"We battled against a very good Illinois Central team," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "We just didn’t make enough plays on both ends to win."

A 12-2 run midway through the first quarter helped the Cougars build a 17-6 lead. A Madison Cheleen three halted the rally, but the Knights faced a ten-point deficit at the quarter break.

Illinois Central continued to extend their lead as a jumper from Madison Jobe pushed their lead to 46-23 with 3:01 remaining. Nariah Golden found a crease in the Cougars defense to trigger a 7-0 run over the closing minutes to cut the margin to 46-30 at the halftime break.

Illinois Central outscored the Knights 11-5 in the opening five minutes to stretch their lead to 57-35 on a three by Kamryn Heider. Knights chipped away at the deficit with a 6-0 burst, before the Cougars stretched their lead to 67-47 headed into the final ten minutes.

A 15-4 run to open the fourth quarter helped North Platte close the gap to nine points on a layup by Nariah Golden with 4:31 to play. The Cougars limited the Knights to just one more field goal down the stretch, while connecting on 5-of-6 free throws to close out the game.

“To say I am proud would be an understatement,” Thurman said. “What this group of student-athletes accomplished this year is phenomenal.”

Knights finish the 2024-25 campaign with a 21-14 overall record and a perfect 4-0 record against Region IX opponents.

Knights season ends with loss to Illinois Central

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

Rudy Sautron posted his fourth individual top-10 finish of the season, tying for eighth with a 139 (-1) at The Johnnie-O at Sea Island in St. Simons Island, Ga., on Tuesday.

Sautron, a sophomore from Reunion Island, France, closed the weather-shortened 36-hole tournament with a final-round 69 (-1) on the 6,933-yard layout of the Sea Island Resort on Tuesday, including an eagle on the par-five 583-yard seventh hole. High winds were strong enough to halt play on Monday, but Sautron still managed an even-par 70 in a single round.

Brody Cunningham added a top-15 finish of his own with a two-round total of 141 (+1), including an even-par 70 on Monday, before adding a 71 (+1) on Tuesday. The true freshman from Glasgow, Scotland tied for 13th in an 80-player field.

As a team, Nebraska tied for fifth with Kansas at 564 (+4), just five strokes behind the tournament champions from Cincinnati, which finished at 559 (-1). Marquette and Florida Gulf Coast tied for second at even-par 560, while UNC Greensboro took fourth at 562 (+2).

The Huskers finished ahead of Big Ten foes Michigan State (566), Rutgers (572) and Penn State (580) in the 13-team tournament field.

Gunnar Broin from Kansas captured medalist honors with a 132 (-8) that included a final-round 64 (-6). Broin finished one shot ahead of Noah Kumar from Rutgers at 133 (-7). Marquette's Max Lyons took third at 134 (-6).

Evan McDermott put together Nebraska's No. 3 individual finish by tying for 31st at 143 (+3), including an even-par 70 on Tuesday. The redshirt sophomore from Spring Lake, Michigan opened with a 73 (+3).

Hamish Murray and Reed Malleck completed Nebraska's five-player lineup in a tie for 38th at 144 (+4). Malleck, a graduate student from York, Neb., opened with an even-par 70, before closing the tournament with a 74 (+4) Tuesday. Murray, a senior from Sydney, Australia, produced a 71 (+1) Tuesday after opening with a 73 (+3).

Grant Jabenis rounded out the Husker contingent at The Johnnie-O in a tie for 68th at 151 (+11), including a final-round 73 (+3) while playing as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup. The senior from Omaha opened the tournament with a 78 (+8).

The Huskers return to action next week at the Bell Bank "Pay It Forward" Collegiate at Wigwam Resort in Litchfield, Ariz., March 24-25.The Johnnie-O at Sea IslandHosted by RutgersMarch 17-18, 2025St. Simons Island, GeorgiaSea Island Resort (Par 70, 6,933 Yards)Final Team Results1. Cincinnati - 288-271=559 (-1)T2. Marquette - 280-280=560 (E)T2. Florida Gulf Coast - 284-276=560 (E)4. UNC Greensboro - 285-277=562 (+2)T5. Nebraska - 283-281=564 (+4)T5. Kansas - 287-277=564 (+4)7. Michigan State - 287-279=566 (+6)8. Georgia Southern - 288-281=569 (+9)9. Princeton - 288-282=570 (+10)10. Rutgers - 294-278=572 (+12)11. West Virginia - 295-281=576 (+16)12. Memphis - 292-285=577 (+17)13. Penn State - 299-281=580 (+20)

Final Individual Results1. Gunnar Broin, Kansas - 68-64=132 (-8)2. Noah Kumar, Rutgers - 68-65=133 (-7)3. Max Lyons, Marquette - 65-69=134 (-6)T4. Alex Creamean, Penn State - 70-67=137 (-3)T4. Nolan Harper, Florida Gulf Coast - 72-65=137 (-3)T6. Connor McNeely, Cincinnati - 70-68=138 (-2)T6. Caleb Bond, Michigan State - 72-66=138 (-2)T8. Rudy Sautron, Nebraska - 70-69=139 (-1)T8. Kaleb Wilson, West Virginia - 70-69=139 (-1)T10. Riccardo Fantinelli, Princeton - 71-69=140 (E)T10. Jack Marcotte, UNCG - 72-68=140 (E)T10. Jake Lewis, UNCG - 72-68=140 (E)

Nebraska IndividualsT8. Rudy Sautron - 70-69=139 (-1)T13. Brodie Cunningham - 70-71=141 (+1)T31. Evan McDermott - 73-70=143 (+3)T38. Reed Malleck - 70-74=144 (+4)T38. Hamish Murray - 73-71=144 (+4)*T68. Grant Jabenis - 78-73=151 (+11)*competed as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup

Sautron leads Huskers to Top-Five finish at Johnnie-O

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

Joplin, Mo. – No. 4 Johnson County defeated North Platte in the second round of the NJCAA DII Women's National Championship on Tuesday, 53-42.

EmmaJo Locks led the Knights with 11 points, while Nariah Golden chipped in 10 points and three steals.

"We battled all game against a very good Johnson County team," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "The second quarter really hurt us both offensively and defensively."

Three players joined in the scoring frenzy while the Knights jumped out to a 6-3 lead. Tamia Smith connected on the first Cavalier three to tie the game at 6-6 with 3:29 to play.

Johnson County stretched a 7-3 run into the second quarter, before a Dezirae Gonzales baseline jumper cut the deficit to 13-11. The Cavaliers showcased their offensive ability using a 16-2 run over the final seven minutes to take a 29-13 lead into the halftime break.

Knights continued to fight as a 12-2 rally capped off by a Nariah Golden three cut the deficit to 35-27 with 3:18 to play in the third. Kara Stricklin answered with back-to-back threes to stretch the Cavalier lead back into double digits, where it would stay for the remainder of the second half.

“We will regroup tonight and focus on what we have to do tomorrow against a very good Illinois Central team," Thurman said.

North Platte (21-13) will continue play in the consolation bracket on Wednesday against the Cougars of Illinois Central. Tip is scheduled for 1 p.m. with local broadcast coverage on FM 98.1/AM 1410 in North Platte. A stream of the game is also available on the NJCAA Network.

Knights fall in second round to #4 Johnson County

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Sophomore&nbsp;Daniella Morillas(pronounced Dan-kneel-uh&nbsp; Mor-ill-us)&nbsp;tossed a two-hit complete game shutout in game one and Nebraska Kearney scored runs in four consecutive innings in game two to take a double header from Mary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/mary/boxscore/8285">8-0</a>&nbsp;(6 innings) and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/mary/boxscore/8284">7-4,</a>&nbsp;Monday at Dryden Park.

These games capped "13 games in nine days" for the Lopers (15-14). They get two days’ rest before visiting Metro State (21-7) Thursday in Denver.

To start the day, Morillas (Newcastle, Calif.) gave up a single, double and walked three as UM (7-18) stranded five. She fanned four in throwing 92 pitches and improves to 3-4. At the plate, UNK finished with eight hits and drew five walks. The Lopers scored in all six innings with senior second baseman&nbsp;Rylyn Nelson&nbsp;(Sterling, Colo.) and sophomore DP&nbsp;Gianna Galli&nbsp;(Stockon, Calif.) each knocking in two with junior shortstop&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;(Wahoo) going 2 for 2 with two runs and two walks.

In the night cap, the Marauders bounced back as they scored four-runs with two down in the top of the second. Nine-hole hitter and catcher Katelyn Falk (2 for 3, one run) delivered a two-run single as center fielder Emma Kimberling.

However, UNK struck for three in the third, one in the fourth, two in the fifth and another in the sixth to rally. Starter&nbsp;Madeline Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) struck out five over three innings of work with freshman lefty&nbsp;Jerzie Schindler&nbsp;(Central City) blanking UM for four straight innings to earn her sixth victory. Galli (1 for 1, two RBI's), Chvatal (3 for 4, one run), and Arizona junior left fielder&nbsp;Alivia De La Cruz&nbsp;(2 for 3, one run) paced the offense.

Weather permitting, the games Thursday in Denver start at 2 and 4 p.m. Central.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNK Softball: Lopers Sweep UM

Joplin, Mo. – A 21-point third quarter carried the Knights to a 69-62 win over #13 seeded Schoolcraft College to open the NJCAA DII Women’s National Championship on Monday.

Jada Thompson&nbsp;tallied a career high 28 points and nine rebounds to lead the Knights. Neveah Golden scored 13 points, while Madison Cheleen chipped in 12 points off the bench.

"To be able to make history with this group, I am honored to be a part of this program," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "We can enjoy this accomplishment, but we still have work to do to prepare for a really good Johnson County team tomorrow."

Sharon Smith tallied six of the Ocelots first eight points to double up the Knights with 5:54 remaining in the first quarter. A quick burst tied the game up at 8-8, before three straight points gave the Knights the lead inside the final three minutes.

Sienna McNitt connected on a pair of free throws to halt the momentum, but a 7-2 rally over the next minute pushed the North Platte advantage to 17-12. Schoolcraft shook off the pressure and cut the margin to three at the end of the first quarter.

Despite the Ocelots cutting the margin to one three times in the opening 2:50, the Knights continued to respond on the offensive end. A short 5-0 run, capped off by four straight points from Nevaeh Golden built a 30-24 lead with 3:21 remaining. Schoolcraft closed out the half with four straight points from Mia Wright to narrow the margin to 30-28 at the halftime break.&nbsp;

Out of the break, the Ocelots knotted the game up on a runner by Garyana Overton. A Thompson three gave the Knights back the lead with 8:21 left in the third quarter. The margin stayed tight until a North Platte 9-1 run put the black and gold up 42-33. Knights continued to stretch their lead into the late stages of the quarter, as they built a 51-38 lead headed into the final ten minutes.

A Dezirae Gonzales layup gave the Knights their largest lead of the game, but Schoolcraft would not hang out in the double-digit deficit for long. A 7-1 run cut the margin to six on a layup from Nevaeh Cable with 5:02 remaining. North Platte was able to outlast the Ocelots down the stretch to earn their first win in the national tournament in school history.

North Platte (21-12) advances to the second round of the tournament to play Johnson County Community College on Tuesday. Tip against the Cavaliers is set for 9 a.m. with local broadcast coverage on FM 98.1/AM 1410 in North Platte. A stream of the game is also available on the NJCAA Network.

Knights upset #13 seeded Schoolcraft in first round

North Platte, Neb. – The Knights softball team earned their first two wins of the season by defeating the Lumberjacks of Dakota State at Bottineau in a doubleheader on Saturday afternoon. In the win, Mark Franzen earns his first two wins of his collegiate coaching career.

Knights exploded for five runs in the first and second innings, before holding off the Lumberjacks in the fourth inning to claim their first win of the season.

Sheena Smith earned the start in the circle where she pitched four innings, allowing six runs on four hits. Sarah Perez came on in relief and allowed only two hits and struck out three batters in three innings of work.

Dakota State tacked on the first run in the top of the first inning, before the Knights loaded the bases with two walks and a single by Victoria Arellano. A Perez sacrifice plated the first run of the inning as the Knights went on to add four more runs in the frame.

The Lumberjacks retired the first two batters for North Platte in the second inning, before a single by Arellano helped trigger the Knights offense. Heaven Hutchison continued the hit parade and was followed by RBI singles from Perez, Samantha Seger, and Smith. North Platte tallied their final run of the inning on a walk to take a 10-1 lead.

Trailing by nine runs, Dakota State recorded five runs in the fourth inning and looked poised to cut into the deficit with the bases loaded and no outs in the fifth. Perez went to work in the circle and kept the Lumberjacks off the scoreboard, as the Knights put the finishing touches on their win.

North Platte continued their dominance in the second game as they jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Dakota State cut into the deficit with two runs in the top of the second inning.

A sacrifice bunt by Alieze Moreno plated Callie Klemenz in the bottom half of the frame to double up the Lumberjacks. Dakota State knotted the game up with a run in the fourth and fifth innings before the Knights blasted four runs in the fifth and sixth innings.

Moreno took the first pitch of the fifth inning and sent it over the center field fence to break the deadlock. North Platte put two runners on the basepaths, before a sacrifice bunt and error by the Lumberjacks third baseman plated two more runs. Back-to-back singles by Wren Herrick and Byanka Tyan plated the final run to make the score 8-4.

North Platte held off the Lumberjacks in the top of the sixth and continued to add four more runs in the bottom half of the frame to lock up the 12-4 win.

Perez earned the start in the circle allowing two runs on one hit, before Moreno came on in relief allowing two runs on four hits and two strikeouts.

North Platte (2-10) returns home next Saturday to take on the Trojans of Colby Community College. First pitch is set for noon at the Dowhower Softball Complex.

Knights take two from Lumberjacks over the weekend

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The top-ranked Nebraska Kearney wrestling team scored 115.0 points to win the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/predefinedtournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=855049132">2025 NCAA Division II National Championship</a>&nbsp;Saturday night in Indianapolis.

The Lopers qualified all 10 starters for the two-day meet with eight ending up as All-Americans (top eight finish). UNK basically wrapped up the team trophy with a strong second session showing Friday night and then greatly padded its point total throughout Saturday's third session.

UNK previously placed first in 2008 (108.50 points), 2012 (107.0), 2013 (108.0) and 2022 (127.0) with this being the program's 23rd consecutive top eight finish. The 52-point margin of victory is the sixth best in the meet's 53-year history with Augustana (63.0) second and St. Cloud State third (57.50).

Sixth-year team member&nbsp;Nick James&nbsp;(149 lbs.), redshirt senior&nbsp;Jacobi Deal&nbsp;(174 lbs.) and redshirt sophomore&nbsp;Zach Ourada&nbsp;(125 lbs.) each reached the finals and finished as National Runners Up. They are the 23rd, 24th and 25th Lopers to finish second at a D2 national meet with James now a two-time runner up.&nbsp;

Ourada (Omaha Skutt) took on top-seed and fellow Omaha native Jakason Burks of Central Missouri in his finals match. Unfortunately, Burks recorded a takedown 12 seconds in and prevailed, 5-2. The story was the same at 174-pounds where Maryville's Cole Ritter moved ahead 3-0 by the 1:58 mark of the opening period. Deal (Durham, N.C.) had several nice attacks throughout but Ritter fought off each one to win, 5-1. 

Finally, James (Kearney H.S.) was seemingly poised to go into overtime against Cael Larson of Augustana. However, Larson managed a takedown and four-near fall points in the final 10 seconds to come out on top, 8-1.&nbsp;

UNK Wrestling: #1 Lopers Score 115 Points to Easily Win 5th National Title

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Freshman&nbsp;Kalli Ulven&nbsp;threw a complete game four-hit shutout and Nebraska Kearney drew 10 walks to beat Minnesota State-Moorhead,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/minnesota-state-moorhead/boxscore/8294">5-0</a>, in game one of a double header Sunday morning in Pittsburg, Kan.

The Dragons (8-19) scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning and added an unearned run in the eighth to take the night cap,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/minnesota-state-moorhead/boxscore/8295">4-3</a>. The games were part of the MIAA/NSIC Crossover with the Lopers (13-14) going 3-2 in the tournament.

Ulven (Blair) earned her third win by fanning three, walking none and throwing just 76 pitches. UNK gave her all the support she needed with a three-run second and then scored single runs in the third and fourth innings.

Junior shortstop and leadoff hitter&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;(Wahoo) walked three times and had a bunt single with junior left fielder&nbsp;Alivia De La Cruz&nbsp;(Chandler, Ariz.) going 1 for 2 with two runs and two walks. Finally, freshman DP&nbsp;Katie Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) had an RBI double.

In game two, Moorhead hit into a 6-3 double play to end the sixth but used a one-out rally to tie things at three in the seventh. An infield single, throwing error, double down the right field line and pinch hit single knotted things up. However, sophomore reliver&nbsp;Daniella Morillas&nbsp;(Newcastle, Calif.) coaxed the Dragons to hit into another double play to get out of the jam and end the inning.

Senior Avery Steffen countered by recording back-to-back strikeouts in a one out, runner on third situation in the top of the eighth. The offense secured her fourth win as a bunt single moved the placed runner to third with an infield error scoring her.&nbsp;

Junior third baseman&nbsp;Alyssa Fortik&nbsp;(Raymond) and senior center fielder&nbsp;Eden McNally&nbsp;(Castle Rock, Colo.) combined to go 4 for 8 with a run and three RBI’s with junior&nbsp;Madeline Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) allowing one earned run over the first 3.1 innings.

UNK’s “13 games in nine days” stretch ends tomorrow with a double header against the Mary (N.D.) Marauders (7-15). The double header has been moved up two hours to a 12 p.m. start.

UNK Softball: Lopers Split with Dragons; Monday's Games Moved Up Two Hours

Story by NU Athletic Communication

Former Nebraska volleyball libero Lexi Rodriguez has been named a finalist for the AAU Sullivan Award. Voting opens March 13 and will run through March 20, and fans can vote once per day. <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://bit.ly/95thAAUSullivanFinalist_Rodriguez__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!E__XaaDPOPmQM-kxee5uHL79U1og1v5Bye4LWafWMTBVNGyiAnUyq5N57PgT4WmN5kfCfoR3G1SPr2Aq6A$">Click here to vote for Lexi Rodriguez</a>.&nbsp;

Six athletes, each at the top of their respective sports, have been chosen as finalists for the 95th AAU James E. Sullivan Award. Since 1930, the AAU James E. Sullivan Award has been presented to the most exceptional athlete at the collegiate, Olympic, or other similarly elite level in the United States. As well as honoring athletic excellence, the AAU Sullivan award also recognizes the chosen athlete’s character and honors their quality of leadership, citizenship and sportsmanship.

Rodriguez advanced from a group of 39 semifinalists and will be present for the 95th AAU Sullivan Award ceremony on April 15 at the New York Athletic Club. The other five finalists are: Trey Augustine (Ice Hockey, Michigan State), Cooper Flagg (Basketball, Duke), Ashton Jeanty (Football, Boise State), Lee Kiefer (Fencing, USA Fencing) and Ilia Malinin (Figure Skating, U.S. Figure Skating).&nbsp;

The winner will join a renowned list of recipients. Last year, Caitlin Clark became the first two-time winner of the award. Other prior winners include Michael Phelps, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Michelle Kwan, Peyton Manning, Simone Biles, Carl Lewis and Carissa Moore.

Rodriguez finished her Husker career in December as a four-time AVCA All-American, a four-time All-Big Ten selection, and a three-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. She was an AVCA National Player of the Year finalist and a Honda Sport Award for Volleyball finalist in 2024, and she became the first-ever libero to be named AVCA Region Player of the Year. Rodriguez is Nebraska's all-time career leader in digs with 1,897. She is also a three-time Academic All-American, including two first-team accolades.&nbsp;

Rodriguez joins four other former Huskers who have been AAU Sullivan Award finalists: Kelsey Robinson (2014-15), Mikaela Foecke (2016-17 and 2018-19), Kelly Hunter (2017-18) and Annika Albrecht (2017-18).&nbsp;

Rodriguez named finalist for AAU Sullivan Award

After a seven-dual home stand, the Nebraska women’s tennis team is hitting the road this weekend for conference matches against Northwestern and Illinois. The #58 Huskers (10-3, 0-2 Big Ten) start the trip in Evanston, Ill., to face the #38 Wildcats (8-6, 1-1 Big Ten) on Friday, March 14, at 4:30 p.m. (CT). Big Ten action will continue on Sunday, March 16, at noon (CT) against the #46 Fighting Illini (6-7, 1-1 Big Ten).

Head coach German Dalmagro seeks to notch his 25th dual win at Nebraska this weekend, as well as the team’s first conference victory of the season. Husker sophomore Maria Taranova currently leads the Big Red in spring singles wins, with her 10-1 record. On the doubles court, sophomores Emma Rizzetto and Tiziana Rossini have notched five spring victories, helping the Huskers to win their nine doubles points.

History: 11-2 Northwestern leads. Most recently, the Huskers fell to the Wildcats 4-3 in Lincoln.

Northwestern boasts a top-40 team ranking despite having no ranked Wildcats. NU has wins over DePaul, Eastern Illinois, Georgia Tech, UIC, Milwaukee, #30 Kansas and #60 Minnesota. The Wildcats have six underclassmen on their roster, led by 26th-year head coach Claire Pollard.

History: 7-5 Illinois leads. In their last matchup, the Fighting Illini defeated the Big Red 4-1 in Lincoln.

Illinois has one ranked singles player, No. 114 Violeta Martinez. Although the Illini currently have a losing record, the team has notable wins over Northwestern, Colorado, Iowa State and Minnesota. Most recently, the Illini opened their Big Ten play with a 4-3 win at #60 Minnesota and lost 4-1 to #17 Wisconsin on the road.

The Huskers are coming off the fall individual season in which the team tallied 34 single wins. Sophomore Maria Taranova led the Big Red in fall singles wins with seven, and had a stellar freshman season in which she earned a 23-8 record, the most wins by a freshman since 2010.&nbsp;

In the 2023-24 season, led by head coach German Dalmagro in his first year at NU, the Huskers went 14-11. The team accomplished two Big Ten Tournament wins for the first time in program history and senior Raphaelle Lacasse was named an All-Big Ten First Team honoree.

Matches will have a live stream available and linked on huskers.com. For match and spring season updates and content, follow @HuskerWTennis on Instagram and X, or Nebraska Women’s Tennis on Facebook.

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