Story by&nbsp;Samantha Geisler – Sports and Events Marketing Specialist

(North Platte, Nebraska, April 8th, 2021) – The Nebraska School Activities Association listened to proposals from 7 communities in Nebraska on Thursday, April 8th, and decided in an 8-0 vote to award the community of North Platte the Class D Boys High School State Golf Championship for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Samantha Geisler, Sports &amp; Events Marketing Specialist for the North Platte Area Sports Commission, a division of the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau, submitted a proposal online in March to the NSAA Board of Directors, recommending both Lake Maloney Golf Course and Rivers Edge Golf Course for the Championship Host site for the next three years. On Thursday, April 8th, she and Executive Director, Lisa Burke, traveled to Lincoln to present the community of North Platte.

“North Platte is fortunate to boast 2 high-quality, 18-hole golf courses. Both in which have a passion for the sport, driving tourism to North Platte, and to our youth.” says Geisler. Both courses have hosted numerous District and State Championship events for the last 15 years. “I believe the North Platte was awarded the event back due to the experience of hosting this event, our courses and community support, and the enthusiasm and professionalism of our volunteers.” The NSAA Board of Directors selected Lake Maloney Golf Course to be the host for 2022, while 2023 and 2024 will remain undetermined at this time.

An average of 100 competitors competes in the Class D High School State Championship Tournament. Class D, which is comprised of the smallest schools within the boys’ golf programs, many located in out-state Nebraska, traditionally travels very well. Many fans, friends and family make the trip to North Platte to watch the 2-day competition. The North Platte Area Sports Commission estimates that this 2-day event will bring an economic impact of $70,605 to the community through lodging, retail, food, and beverage purchases. The Sports Commission developed this estimate by using the Event Impact Calculator developed by Destinations International provided by membership in the national organization Sports ETA: Sports Events and Tourism Association.

Lisa Burke, Executive Director of the Visitors Bureau said, “This tournament kicks off at the perfect time of year, when the peak summer travel season is just beginning. Attracting hundreds of additional visitors to our community, for two or three days in May, benefits our retail shops, service stations, restaurants and lodging. The money the visitors spend is re-spent a number of times throughout North Platte, benefiting the entire community.”

In addition to the award of the Class D championship to North Platte, the NSAA awarded Class A to Norfolk and Class B to Scottsbluff/Gering, and Class C to Columbus.

North Platte will host the 2021 Class D State Championship Tournament on May 25th and 26th at Lake Maloney Golf Club.

Story by&nbsp;Samantha Geisler – Sports and Events Marketing Specialist(North Platte, Nebraska, April 8th, 2021) – The Nebraska School Activities Association listened to proposals from 7 communities in Nebraska on Thursday, April 8th, and decided in an 8-0 vote to award the community of North Platte the Class D Boys High School State Golf Championship for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.Samantha Geisler, Sports &amp; Events Marketing Specialist for the North Platte Area Sports Commission, a division of the North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau, submitted a proposal online in March to the NSAA Board of Directors, recommending both Lake Maloney Golf Course and Rivers Edge Golf Course for the Championship Host site for the next three years. On Thursday, April 8th, she and Executive Director, Lisa Burke, traveled to Lincoln to present the community of North Platte.“North Platte is fortunate to boast 2 high-quality, 18-hole golf courses. Both in which have a passion for the sport, driving tourism to North Platte, and to our youth.” says Geisler. Both courses have hosted numerous District and State Championship events for the last 15 years. “I believe the North Platte was awarded the event back due to the experience of hosting this event, our courses and community support, and the enthusiasm and professionalism of our volunteers.” The NSAA Board of Directors selected Lake Maloney Golf Course to be the host for 2022, while 2023 and 2024 will remain undetermined at this time.An average of 100 competitors competes in the Class D High School State Championship Tournament. Class D, which is comprised of the smallest schools within the boys’ golf programs, many located in out-state Nebraska, traditionally travels very well. Many fans, friends and family make the trip to North Platte to watch the 2-day competition. The North Platte Area Sports Commission estimates that this 2-day event will bring an economic impact of $70,605 to the community through lodging, retail, food, and beverage purchases. The Sports Commission developed this estimate by using the Event Impact Calculator developed by Destinations International provided by membership in the national organization Sports ETA: Sports Events and Tourism Association.Lisa Burke, Executive Director of the Visitors Bureau said, “This tournament kicks off at the perfect time of year, when the peak summer travel season is just beginning. Attracting hundreds of additional visitors to our community, for two or three days in May, benefits our retail shops, service stations, restaurants and lodging. The money the visitors spend is re-spent a number of times throughout North Platte, benefiting the entire community.”In addition to the award of the Class D championship to North Platte, the NSAA awarded Class A to Norfolk and Class B to Scottsbluff/Gering, and Class C to Columbus.North Platte will host the 2021 Class D State Championship Tournament on May 25th and 26th at Lake Maloney Golf Club.

North Platte Awarded Class D Boys High School State Golf Championship Tournament 2022-24

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska volleyball seniors Lauren Stivrins and Lexi Sun and junior Nicklin Hames were voted to the All-Big Ten First Team by the league's 14 head coaches on Thursday. All three were repeat honorees from the 2019 All-Big Ten First Team. 

Stivrins is a two-time AVCA All-American and three-time All-Big Ten First-Team selection. She posted 3.23 kills per set, 1.09 blocks per set and a team-best .468 hitting percentage during the regular season. Stivrins' hitting percentage was the best in the Big Ten and ranked No. 4 in the nation. The middle blocker from Scottsdale, Ariz., had double-digit kills in 10 of 16 matches and hit .400 or better in 13 of 16 matches. Stivrins holds a career hitting percentage of .384, which is fourth-best average in school history and the No. 1 mark in the rally scoring era, which began in 2001. She led the Huskers to a .272 season hitting average and .157 opponent hitting percentage, both of which ranked second in the conference. Stivrins was a unanimous selection for the third year in a row.

Sun earned All-Big Ten First-Team honors for the second straight year after leading the Huskers in kills with 3.82 per set. She also added 2.13 digs per set with 39 blocks and 19 aces on the season and recorded five double-doubles. Sun, who hit .247 for the season, was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week during the 11-week regular season. An AVCA third-team All-American in 2019, Sun reached double-digit kills in 14 of 16 regular-season matches. She ranked fifth among all Big Ten Players in kills per set and was a unanimous choice to the All-Big Ten First Team. 

Hames also garnered All-Big Ten First-Team accolades for the second straight season. The junior setter led the Big Ten in assists at 10.93 per set and ranked 17th nationally. The Maryville, Tenn., native posted eight double-doubles in 16 matches, and she served 12 aces. Hames set the Huskers to a .272 regular-season hitting percentage, the second-best mark in the Big Ten. 

Hayley Densberger was Nebraska's Sportsmanship Award honoree. Densberger is a two-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.

The Huskers will open the NCAA Tournament next Thursday at the CHI Health Center Omaha Convention Center. Nebraska will play at 2:30 p.m. against the winner of the Texas State-Utah Valley first-round match-up. 

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska volleyball seniors Lauren Stivrins and Lexi Sun and junior Nicklin Hames were voted to the All-Big Ten First Team by the league's 14 head coaches on Thursday. All three were repeat honorees from the 2019 All-Big Ten First Team. Stivrins is a two-time AVCA All-American and three-time All-Big Ten First-Team selection. She posted 3.23 kills per set, 1.09 blocks per set and a team-best .468 hitting percentage during the regular season. Stivrins' hitting percentage was the best in the Big Ten and ranked No. 4 in the nation. The middle blocker from Scottsdale, Ariz., had double-digit kills in 10 of 16 matches and hit .400 or better in 13 of 16 matches. Stivrins holds a career hitting percentage of .384, which is fourth-best average in school history and the No. 1 mark in the rally scoring era, which began in 2001. She led the Huskers to a .272 season hitting average and .157 opponent hitting percentage, both of which ranked second in the conference. Stivrins was a unanimous selection for the third year in a row.Sun earned All-Big Ten First-Team honors for the second straight year after leading the Huskers in kills with 3.82 per set. She also added 2.13 digs per set with 39 blocks and 19 aces on the season and recorded five double-doubles. Sun, who hit .247 for the season, was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week during the 11-week regular season. An AVCA third-team All-American in 2019, Sun reached double-digit kills in 14 of 16 regular-season matches. She ranked fifth among all Big Ten Players in kills per set and was a unanimous choice to the All-Big Ten First Team. Hames also garnered All-Big Ten First-Team accolades for the second straight season. The junior setter led the Big Ten in assists at 10.93 per set and ranked 17th nationally. The Maryville, Tenn., native posted eight double-doubles in 16 matches, and she served 12 aces. Hames set the Huskers to a .272 regular-season hitting percentage, the second-best mark in the Big Ten. Hayley Densberger was Nebraska's Sportsmanship Award honoree. Densberger is a two-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.The Huskers will open the NCAA Tournament next Thursday at the CHI Health Center Omaha Convention Center. Nebraska will play at 2:30 p.m. against the winner of the Texas State-Utah Valley first-round match-up.

Three Huskers Named to All-Big Ten First Team

NPHS Track and Field: Grand Island Invite 4/8 RESULTS

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Coaches of two of the top teams in the NCAA Division I volleyball tournament are complaining about the setup for the event next week in Omaha, Nebraska. 

First- and second-round matches and regional semifinals will be played in a convention center with what Nebraska coach John Cook says are inadequate locker facilities. 

The CHI Health Center arena will be site of the national semifinals and final. 

Wisconsin’s Kelly Sheffield says he's disappointed that first- and second-round matches will be streamed on ESPN's digital platforms without play-by-play announcers or analysts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569329961876.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Coaches of two of the top teams in the NCAA Division I volleyball tournament are complaining about the setup for the event next week in Omaha, Nebraska. First- and second-round matches and regional semifinals will be played in a convention center with what Nebraska coach John Cook says are inadequate locker facilities. The CHI Health Center arena will be site of the national semifinals and final. Wisconsin’s Kelly Sheffield says he's disappointed that first- and second-round matches will be streamed on ESPN's digital platforms without play-by-play announcers or analysts.

Coaches: Venue, coverage diminish NCAA volleyball tournament

Story by North Platte Saint Patricks High School

North Platte – Take me out to the Ballgame!

If you like baseball and cheering on high school athletes, mark your calendar to attend the games on Monday, April 12th at the North Platte Bill Wood Field.

The Maxwell/St. Pat’s Baseball Team will host their first home double header at 3:00 and 5:00 on Monday against Central City/Fullerton.

This new coop between Maxwell and North Platte St. Pat’s will have athletes from both schools competing together. This program has brought high school baseball to both of the schools for the first time. Ryan Jones, Athletic Director at Maxwell is the head coach and Brad Braithwait from St. Pat’s is the assistant.

To kick-off the home season NebraskaLand National Bank will be providing a tailgate on Monday from 3-6PM (free-will donation).

NebraskaLand will also be presenting a donation check to the MSP Coaches.

Mike Jacobson, President &amp; CEO of NebraskaLand National Bank, “NebraskaLand is proud to support Maxwell and St. Pat’s Schools in their collaboration to provide another sport for their students. We are proud to be a part of a result of communities working together to create opportunities for our youth.”

The team began practice in mid-March and will play their first game of the season at Lincoln Christian on Thursday, April 8th. It’s a double header at 3:30 and 5:30.

Story by North Platte Saint Patricks High SchoolNorth Platte – Take me out to the Ballgame!If you like baseball and cheering on high school athletes, mark your calendar to attend the games on Monday, April 12th at the North Platte Bill Wood Field.The Maxwell/St. Pat’s Baseball Team will host their first home double header at 3:00 and 5:00 on Monday against Central City/Fullerton.This new coop between Maxwell and North Platte St. Pat’s will have athletes from both schools competing together. This program has brought high school baseball to both of the schools for the first time. Ryan Jones, Athletic Director at Maxwell is the head coach and Brad Braithwait from St. Pat’s is the assistant.To kick-off the home season NebraskaLand National Bank will be providing a tailgate on Monday from 3-6PM (free-will donation).NebraskaLand will also be presenting a donation check to the MSP Coaches.Mike Jacobson, President &amp; CEO of NebraskaLand National Bank, “NebraskaLand is proud to support Maxwell and St. Pat’s Schools in their collaboration to provide another sport for their students. We are proud to be a part of a result of communities working together to create opportunities for our youth.”The team began practice in mid-March and will play their first game of the season at Lincoln Christian on Thursday, April 8th. It’s a double header at 3:30 and 5:30.

North Platte Catholic Schools – Baseball Team—Check Presentation

April 7th featured another round of NPHS Bulldogs continuing their athletic career at the next level. You can hear interviews with the athletes below! The list is alphabetical by the athlete.&nbsp;

Tahjzha Botts - Softball at Southeast Community College

Will Coe - Baseball at University of Jamestown

Darian Diaz - Wrestling at Chadron State College

Baylee Evarts - Cross Country and Track at Hastings College

Derrick Kuhlmann - Baseball at Iowa Western Community College

Tom Moss - Cross Country and Track at Morningside College

Tyler T0bey - Baseball at Kaskaskia Community College

April 7th featured another round of NPHS Bulldogs continuing their athletic career at the next level. You can hear interviews with the athletes below! The list is alphabetical by the athlete.&nbsp;<h2>Tahjzha Botts - Softball at Southeast Community College</h2><div><iframe title="Tahjzha Botts signs NLI for SECC" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=etz5g-fffbae-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Will Coe - Baseball at University of Jamestown</h2><div><iframe title="Will Coe signs NLI for University of Jamestown" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j9kj9-fffbb3-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Darian Diaz - Wrestling at Chadron State College</h2><div><iframe title="Darian Diaz signs NLI for Chadron State" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j3frz-fffba1-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Baylee Evarts - Cross Country and Track at Hastings College</h2><div><iframe title="Baylee Evarts signs NLI for Hastings College" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kbbyx-fffb9d-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Derrick Kuhlmann - Baseball at Iowa Western Community College</h2><div><iframe title="Derrick Kuhlmann signs NLI at Iowa Western CC" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=3nv4i-fffba8-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Tom Moss - Cross Country and Track at Morningside College</h2><div><iframe title="Tom Moss signs NLI for Morningside College" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=pt2br-fffbb1-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div><h2>Tyler T0bey - Baseball at Kaskaskia Community College</h2><div><iframe title="Tyler Tobey signs NLI for Kaskaskia CC" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gutqg-fffbb2-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>

NPHS Athletics: SIGNING DAY! April 7th NLI interviews!

Story by Heather Johnson -&nbsp;Area Public Information Specialist

Hastings, Neb. - The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team blew away Hastings College by six runs, 7-1, in the first game of a road doubleheader Tuesday.

The Knights got things started in the first inning when an error scored them two runs.

Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., led things off in the pitcher’s circle. She went five innings, allowing zero runs on three hits and striking out six.

The Knights socked one home run on the day. Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., had a homer in the seventh inning. Bredleau-Beehler led the Knights with two hits in four at bats.

The Knights then fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 7-5 loss to Hastings in the second game.

“We came out and played with heart and confidence in game one, and in game two we played on emotion and tried to rely on our talent,” said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins.

The Knights scored three runs in the fourth inning of the second game. Their offensive firepower was led by Essence McRae, of Las Vegas, Nev., and Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, all driving in runs.

Sullivan led things off on the rubber for the Knights. The righty went six innings, allowing seven runs on nine hits and striking out five.

Bredleau-Beehler went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead the Knights in hits.

Their next game will be at home. They will take on Central Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.

Story by Heather Johnson -&nbsp;Area Public Information SpecialistHastings, Neb. - The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team blew away Hastings College by six runs, 7-1, in the first game of a road doubleheader Tuesday.The Knights got things started in the first inning when an error scored them two runs.Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., led things off in the pitcher’s circle. She went five innings, allowing zero runs on three hits and striking out six.The Knights socked one home run on the day. Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., had a homer in the seventh inning. Bredleau-Beehler led the Knights with two hits in four at bats.The Knights then fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 7-5 loss to Hastings in the second game.“We came out and played with heart and confidence in game one, and in game two we played on emotion and tried to rely on our talent,” said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins.The Knights scored three runs in the fourth inning of the second game. Their offensive firepower was led by Essence McRae, of Las Vegas, Nev., and Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, all driving in runs.Sullivan led things off on the rubber for the Knights. The righty went six innings, allowing seven runs on nine hits and striking out five.Bredleau-Beehler went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead the Knights in hits.The Knights are now 5-21 on the season.Their next game will be at home. They will take on Central Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.

Knights Softball splits games against Hastings

<h2>Varsity result:</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617794112108.jpeg" alt="NPHS tennis vs kearney varsity.jpg" />
 <figcaption>NPHS tennis vs kearney varsity.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>JV result:&nbsp;</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617794146543.jpeg" alt="NPHS Tennis vs Kearney JV.jpg" />
 <figcaption>NPHS Tennis vs Kearney JV.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

NPHS Girls Tennis: Results from 4/6 against Kearney

Lincoln – University of Nebraska men's basketball coach Fred Hoiberg announced the hiring of former Chicago Bulls assistant Nate Loenser (pronounced Lenzer) to the Husker coaching staff on Tuesday (April 6).

Hoiberg, who has worked with Loenser at both Iowa State (2013-15) and with the Chicago Bulls (2015-18), believes Loenser's combination of coaching experience at the NBA and collegiate levels and player development skills enhances the Husker program.

"This is the third time I had a chance to add Nate to my staff and believe that he is the best player development guy I have worked with," Hoiberg said. "He was a valuable member of our staff that won a pair of Big 12 Tournament titles in Ames. In Chicago, he did a remarkable job with our G League team in its first season, as we had more than a dozen players recalled or sign with other NBA teams. He has earned the respect of players around the league because of his ability to relate with players, and to help them reach their goals. We are pleased to welcome Nate and his family to Lincoln."

Loenser, who joins the staff as an assistant coach, spent five seasons with the Bulls, including three seasons as an assistant coach for Hoiberg and Jim Boylen.  His coaching emphasis was on the offensive end, while he also handled opponent scouting for select teams and worked extensively in player development. He helped develop 2021 NBA all-star Zach Lavine as well as Kris Dunn, Ryan Arcidiacono, Justin Holiday, Chandler Hutchison, David Nwaba, Denzel Valentine and Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot during his tenure with the Bulls.

Prior to joining the Bulls' coaching staff, he was the head coach of the Windy City Bulls D-League team in 2016-17. He guided the expansion franchise to a 23-27 record, which was the best of the three expansion franchises that season, while developing players such as Spencer Dinwiddie, Jake Layman and Bobby Portis.

Loenser spent two years on Hoiberg's Iowa State staff and was a key component in helping the Cyclones to a pair of Big 12 Tournament titles. He was the Cyclones' Director of Player Development in 2014-15, as ISU went 25-9 and tied for second in the Big 12. That season, Georges Niang earned All-America honors, while Niang, Monté Morris and Jameel McKay were recognized on the All-Big 12 teams. McKay was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. 

In his first season, Loenser served as graduate assistant as the program enjoyed one of its best seasons in program history.  The Cyclones finished with 28 wins, won the Big 12 Tournament title and reached the NCAA Sweet 16. ISU ranked in the top three nationally in scoring offense, assists per game and assist-to-turnover ratio.  Melvin Ejim and DeAndre Kane both earned All-America accolades for their efforts.

After one season at Northern University High School in Cedar Falls, Loenser began his collegiate coaching career at Southern Mississippi. He served on Larry Eustachy's staff for six seasons, helping the Golden Eagles post a pair of 20-win seasons and reach the CIT in 2010. He handled recruiting, opponent scouting and on-court coaching during his tenure at USM. Loenser returned to Iowa to coach high school basketball, serving as the head coach at Spirit Lake High School before joining the Iowa State staff in 2013.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsLincoln – University of Nebraska men's basketball coach Fred Hoiberg announced the hiring of former Chicago Bulls assistant Nate Loenser (pronounced Lenzer) to the Husker coaching staff on Tuesday (April 6).Hoiberg, who has worked with Loenser at both Iowa State (2013-15) and with the Chicago Bulls (2015-18), believes Loenser's combination of coaching experience at the NBA and collegiate levels and player development skills enhances the Husker program."This is the third time I had a chance to add Nate to my staff and believe that he is the best player development guy I have worked with," Hoiberg said. "He was a valuable member of our staff that won a pair of Big 12 Tournament titles in Ames. In Chicago, he did a remarkable job with our G League team in its first season, as we had more than a dozen players recalled or sign with other NBA teams. He has earned the respect of players around the league because of his ability to relate with players, and to help them reach their goals. We are pleased to welcome Nate and his family to Lincoln."Loenser, who joins the staff as an assistant coach, spent five seasons with the Bulls, including three seasons as an assistant coach for Hoiberg and Jim Boylen. His coaching emphasis was on the offensive end, while he also handled opponent scouting for select teams and worked extensively in player development. He helped develop 2021 NBA all-star Zach Lavine as well as Kris Dunn, Ryan Arcidiacono, Justin Holiday, Chandler Hutchison, David Nwaba, Denzel Valentine and Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot during his tenure with the Bulls.Prior to joining the Bulls' coaching staff, he was the head coach of the Windy City Bulls D-League team in 2016-17. He guided the expansion franchise to a 23-27 record, which was the best of the three expansion franchises that season, while developing players such as Spencer Dinwiddie, Jake Layman and Bobby Portis.Loenser spent two years on Hoiberg's Iowa State staff and was a key component in helping the Cyclones to a pair of Big 12 Tournament titles. He was the Cyclones' Director of Player Development in 2014-15, as ISU went 25-9 and tied for second in the Big 12. That season, Georges Niang earned All-America honors, while Niang, Monté Morris and Jameel McKay were recognized on the All-Big 12 teams. McKay was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. In his first season, Loenser served as graduate assistant as the program enjoyed one of its best seasons in program history. The Cyclones finished with 28 wins, won the Big 12 Tournament title and reached the NCAA Sweet 16. ISU ranked in the top three nationally in scoring offense, assists per game and assist-to-turnover ratio. Melvin Ejim and DeAndre Kane both earned All-America accolades for their efforts.After one season at Northern University High School in Cedar Falls, Loenser began his collegiate coaching career at Southern Mississippi. He served on Larry Eustachy's staff for six seasons, helping the Golden Eagles post a pair of 20-win seasons and reach the CIT in 2010. He handled recruiting, opponent scouting and on-court coaching during his tenure at USM. Loenser returned to Iowa to coach high school basketball, serving as the head coach at Spirit Lake High School before joining the Iowa State staff in 2013.

Huskers Add Nate Loenser to Basketball Coaching Staff

North Platte Community College head softball coach Janelle Higgins has been designated as an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion region ambassador for the National Junior College Athletic Association.

According to the NJCAA, a total of 39 individuals from across the country serve as ambassadors. Applicants went through a stringent, multi-round process before being selected, and Higgins was the only one chosen from Nebraska.

“It’s a pretty exciting thing to be a part of,” said Higgins of her selection. “It’s definitely something I have a passion for.”

The ambassadors have the responsibility of collaborating with the NJCAA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council and the Racial Equality subcommittee to promote and advance equity, diversity and inclusion within the NJCAA.

The ambassadors have also been tasked with developing a working framework to form the inaugural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion region committees and with leading their respective regions in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives.

A focus will be placed on educating, empowering and engaging NJCAA student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors and administrators.

Additionally, the newly appointed region ambassadors will train with RISE, a national nonprofit that educates and empowers the sports community to eliminate racial discrimination, champion social justice and improve race relations. 

More information about the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council can be found at: https://www.njcaa.org/about/councils/equity/directory.

Story by Heather Johnson -&nbsp;Area Public Information SpecialistNorth Platte Community College head softball coach Janelle Higgins has been designated as an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion region ambassador for the National Junior College Athletic Association.According to the NJCAA, a total of 39 individuals from across the country serve as ambassadors. Applicants went through a stringent, multi-round process before being selected, and Higgins was the only one chosen from Nebraska.“It’s a pretty exciting thing to be a part of,” said Higgins of her selection. “It’s definitely something I have a passion for.”The ambassadors have the responsibility of collaborating with the NJCAA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council and the Racial Equality subcommittee to promote and advance equity, diversity and inclusion within the NJCAA.The ambassadors have also been tasked with developing a working framework to form the inaugural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion region committees and with leading their respective regions in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives.A focus will be placed on educating, empowering and engaging NJCAA student-athletes, coaches, athletic directors and administrators.Additionally, the newly appointed region ambassadors will train with RISE, a national nonprofit that educates and empowers the sports community to eliminate racial discrimination, champion social justice and improve race relations. More information about the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Council can be found at: https://www.njcaa.org/about/councils/equity/directory.

Higgins named Equity, Diversity and Inclusion region ambassador

Story&nbsp;

By PAT GRAHAM - Associated Press

DENVER (AP) — Major League Baseball plans to relocate the All-Star Game to Coors Field in Denver after pulling this year’s Midsummer Classic from Atlanta over objections to sweeping changes to Georgia’s voting laws, according to a person familiar with the decision.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Monday night because MLB hadn’t announced the move yet. The commissioner’s office was expected to declare Tuesday that the Colorado Rockies will host the game.

MLB pulled the July 13 game from Truist Park in Atlanta in response to Georgia voting rules that Republican Gov. Brian Kemp quickly signed into law March 25. Critics, including the CEOs of Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines and Coca-Cola, have condemned the changes as being too restrictive.

The Georgia law includes new limits on voting by mail and greater legislative control over how elections are run, amid a push in Republican-led states to reduce voting options after former president Donald Trump made baseless claims of widespread fraud in last year’s election.

Colorado has a Democratic governor in Jared Polis and a Democratic-controlled legislature.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred made the decision to move the All-Star events and the amateur draft from Atlanta after discussions with individual players and the Players Alliance, an organization of Black players formed after the death of George Floyd last year, the commissioner said in a statement.

Kemp has vowed to defend the measure, and other Republicans have criticized MLB’s move. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott backed out of throwing the first pitch at the Texas Rangers’ home opener Monday and said the state would not seek to host the All-Star Game or any other special MLB events.

Coors Field last hosted the All-Star Game in 1998, the fourth season for the stadium and sixth for the Rockies franchise.

It’s uncertain what kind of seating capacity there might be due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Rockies had a seating capacity during their first homestand against the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers of 21,363 fans, which was 42.6% of usual capacity. The seating was in pods, and standing room areas weren’t available for fans to gather.

Players also weren’t allowed to sign autographs or toss baseballs into the stands, in accordance with MLB coronavirus protocols.

Nolan Arenado might be back with the “home” team — the NL, not the Rockies.

Arenado was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in the offseason after growing disenchanted with the front office over the team’s vision. Arenado is a five-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove winner.

Arenado remains popular at Coors Field, with fans showing up over the weekend wearing his Rockies uniform and his Cardinals version. There will be a sneak peek of Arenado back at Coors Field when the Cardinals play in the Mile High City from July 1-4.

One thing’s for sure: The Home Run Derby should be epic at elevation. Ken Griffey Jr. won it at Coors Field in 1998 by beating Jim Thome.

The last time the All-Star Game was in Denver, the AL beat the NL 13-8, with Bartolo Colon getting the win and Ugueth Urbina taking the loss. There were 31 hits but only three for homers. Barry Bonds went yard along with Alex Rodriguez and Roberto Alomar, the Baltimore second baseman who was selected the MVP.

Colorado was represented in that All-Star Game by Dante Bichette, Vinny Castilla, Larry Walker and coach Don Baylor.

And who knows? Maybe Bichette’s son, Bo, will make this year’s All-Star Game. Bo Bichette is a shortstop for Toronto.

Story&nbsp;

By PAT GRAHAM - Associated Press DENVER (AP) — Major League Baseball plans to relocate the All-Star Game to Coors Field in Denver after pulling this year’s Midsummer Classic from Atlanta over objections to sweeping changes to Georgia’s voting laws, according to a person familiar with the decision.The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Monday night because MLB hadn’t announced the move yet. The commissioner’s office was expected to declare Tuesday that the Colorado Rockies will host the game.ESPN was first to report the decision.MLB pulled the July 13 game from Truist Park in Atlanta in response to Georgia voting rules that Republican Gov. Brian Kemp quickly signed into law March 25. Critics, including the CEOs of Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines and Coca-Cola, have condemned the changes as being too restrictive.ADVERTISEMENTThe Georgia law includes new limits on voting by mail and greater legislative control over how elections are run, amid a push in Republican-led states to reduce voting options after former president Donald Trump made baseless claims of widespread fraud in last year’s election.Colorado has a Democratic governor in Jared Polis and a Democratic-controlled legislature.MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred made the decision to move the All-Star events and the amateur draft from Atlanta after discussions with individual players and the Players Alliance, an organization of Black players formed after the death of George Floyd last year, the commissioner said in a statement.Kemp has vowed to defend the measure, and other Republicans have criticized MLB’s move. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott backed out of throwing the first pitch at the Texas Rangers’ home opener Monday and said the state would not seek to host the All-Star Game or any other special MLB events.Coors Field last hosted the All-Star Game in 1998, the fourth season for the stadium and sixth for the Rockies franchise.It’s uncertain what kind of seating capacity there might be due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Rockies had a seating capacity during their first homestand against the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers of 21,363 fans, which was 42.6% of usual capacity. The seating was in pods, and standing room areas weren’t available for fans to gather.Players also weren’t allowed to sign autographs or toss baseballs into the stands, in accordance with MLB coronavirus protocols.Nolan Arenado might be back with the “home” team — the NL, not the Rockies.Arenado was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in the offseason after growing disenchanted with the front office over the team’s vision. Arenado is a five-time All-Star and eight-time Gold Glove winner.Arenado remains popular at Coors Field, with fans showing up over the weekend wearing his Rockies uniform and his Cardinals version. There will be a sneak peek of Arenado back at Coors Field when the Cardinals play in the Mile High City from July 1-4.One thing’s for sure: The Home Run Derby should be epic at elevation. Ken Griffey Jr. won it at Coors Field in 1998 by beating Jim Thome.The last time the All-Star Game was in Denver, the AL beat the NL 13-8, with Bartolo Colon getting the win and Ugueth Urbina taking the loss. There were 31 hits but only three for homers. Barry Bonds went yard along with Alex Rodriguez and Roberto Alomar, the Baltimore second baseman who was selected the MVP.Colorado was represented in that All-Star Game by Dante Bichette, Vinny Castilla, Larry Walker and coach Don Baylor.And who knows? Maybe Bichette’s son, Bo, will make this year’s All-Star Game. Bo Bichette is a shortstop for Toronto.

AP source: MLB moving All-Star Game to Denver’s Coors Field

LINCOLN, Neb. - The Nebraska volleyball team was selected as the No. 5 overall seed for the NCAA Tournament on Sunday afternoon and will be one of 48 teams to compete in the NCAA Tournament at the CHI Health Center Omaha from April 14-24. 

The Huskers, making their 39th straight NCAA Tournament appearance, will open the tournament on Thursday, April 15 at 2:30 p.m. against the winner of the Texas State-Utah Valley first-round match that takes place on Wednesday, April 14. The top 16 seeds received a first-round bye. Nebraska's region includes No. 4 seed Texas, No. 12 seed Baylor and No. 13 seed Penn State. The Huskers are on the left half of the bracket that also includes No. 1 national seed Wisconsin, No. 8 Florida and No. 9 Ohio State. The top two national seeds on the other side of the bracket are No. 2 Kentucky and No. 3 Minnesota.

Nebraska, which has been to four NCAA Semifinals in the last five years and won National Championships in 2015 and 2017, finished the regular season 14-2 and in third place in the Big Ten Conference. The Huskers played 16 of their 22 scheduled regular-season matches, as six were canceled due to COVID-19 issues for opposing teams. 

The first-round bye will be the Huskers' first automatic advancement to the second round since 1997 when the tournament featured 56 teams. In 1998 the field was expanded to 68 teams. The Big Red will await the winner of Texas State-Utah Valley, who will play on Wednesday, April 14 at 2:30 p.m. Texas State played 38 matches - more than any team in the country - spread out over both the fall and spring and posted a 30-8 record. The Bobcats won the Sun Belt Conference Tournament in November for the third year in a row. Texas State is coming off a 3-1 win at No. 9 Baylor on April 1. Utah Valley is making its first tournament appearance after winning the WAC Conference Tournament on Saturday with a 3-0 sweep over New Mexico State. Utah Valley posted a 14-5 overall record this spring. The Wolverines went 12-4 in the WAC. 

2020-21 NCAA DIVISION I WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL FORMAT

The 48-team NCAA Tournament begins with teams seeded 17-48 taking part in the first round on Wednesday, April 14 in the convention center of CHI Health Center Omaha. Four courts will be set up in the convention center with four different time slots for matches (all Central): 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Four matches will be played at a time, and all 16 first-round matches will be streamed online at WatchESPN.com. 

The 16 winners from the first round will move on to play the top 16 seeds in the second round on Thursday, April 15 in the convention center. The four time slots for matches will again be 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Four matches will be played at a time, all streamed online on WatchESPN.com.

After taking off days on Friday and Saturday, the 16 remaining teams will compete in the regional semifinals on Sunday, April 18 in the convention center. Two courts will be used for the eight matches with staggered start times of Noon, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. All matches again will be streamed on WatchESPN.com and four of the eight matches will be televised on ESPNU.

The first three rounds in the convention center will permit only guests of coaches and student-athletes to attend. 

The rest of the tournament will move to the main arena of the CHI Health Center, where crowds of 25 percent capacity will be able to attend. The regional finals will be played Monday, April 19 at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., and all will be televised on ESPNU. After two days off, the NCAA Semifinals will be contested Thursday, April 22 at 7 p.m. and 30 minutes following the conclusion of the 7 p.m. match, both on ESPN2. The NCAA Final is set for Saturday, April 24 at 8 p.m. on ESPN2.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsLINCOLN, Neb. - The Nebraska volleyball team was selected as the No. 5 overall seed for the NCAA Tournament on Sunday afternoon and will be one of 48 teams to compete in the NCAA Tournament at the CHI Health Center Omaha from April 14-24. The Huskers, making their 39th straight NCAA Tournament appearance, will open the tournament on Thursday, April 15 at 2:30 p.m. against the winner of the Texas State-Utah Valley first-round match that takes place on Wednesday, April 14. The top 16 seeds received a first-round bye. Nebraska's region includes No. 4 seed Texas, No. 12 seed Baylor and No. 13 seed Penn State. The Huskers are on the left half of the bracket that also includes No. 1 national seed Wisconsin, No. 8 Florida and No. 9 Ohio State. The top two national seeds on the other side of the bracket are No. 2 Kentucky and No. 3 Minnesota.Nebraska, which has been to four NCAA Semifinals in the last five years and won National Championships in 2015 and 2017, finished the regular season 14-2 and in third place in the Big Ten Conference. The Huskers played 16 of their 22 scheduled regular-season matches, as six were canceled due to COVID-19 issues for opposing teams. The first-round bye will be the Huskers' first automatic advancement to the second round since 1997 when the tournament featured 56 teams. In 1998 the field was expanded to 68 teams. The Big Red will await the winner of Texas State-Utah Valley, who will play on Wednesday, April 14 at 2:30 p.m. Texas State played 38 matches - more than any team in the country - spread out over both the fall and spring and posted a 30-8 record. The Bobcats won the Sun Belt Conference Tournament in November for the third year in a row. Texas State is coming off a 3-1 win at No. 9 Baylor on April 1. Utah Valley is making its first tournament appearance after winning the WAC Conference Tournament on Saturday with a 3-0 sweep over New Mexico State. Utah Valley posted a 14-5 overall record this spring. The Wolverines went 12-4 in the WAC. 2020-21 NCAA DIVISION I WOMEN'S VOLLEYBALL FORMATThe 48-team NCAA Tournament begins with teams seeded 17-48 taking part in the first round on Wednesday, April 14 in the convention center of CHI Health Center Omaha. Four courts will be set up in the convention center with four different time slots for matches (all Central): 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Four matches will be played at a time, and all 16 first-round matches will be streamed online at WatchESPN.com. The 16 winners from the first round will move on to play the top 16 seeds in the second round on Thursday, April 15 in the convention center. The four time slots for matches will again be 11 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Four matches will be played at a time, all streamed online on WatchESPN.com.After taking off days on Friday and Saturday, the 16 remaining teams will compete in the regional semifinals on Sunday, April 18 in the convention center. Two courts will be used for the eight matches with staggered start times of Noon, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. All matches again will be streamed on WatchESPN.com and four of the eight matches will be televised on ESPNU.The first three rounds in the convention center will permit only guests of coaches and student-athletes to attend. The rest of the tournament will move to the main arena of the CHI Health Center, where crowds of 25 percent capacity will be able to attend. The regional finals will be played Monday, April 19 at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., and all will be televised on ESPNU. After two days off, the NCAA Semifinals will be contested Thursday, April 22 at 7 p.m. and 30 minutes following the conclusion of the 7 p.m. match, both on ESPN2. The NCAA Final is set for Saturday, April 24 at 8 p.m. on ESPN2.

Huskers Earn No. 5 National Seed in NCAA Tournament

McCook, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team saw their 2021 season come to an end, as they fell to McCook Community College in the opening round of the Region IX Tournament on Saturday, 73-68.

In the opening half, the Indians jumped out to an 8-2 lead in the opening three minutes of play. The Knights trimmed the deficit down to five, as Timur Krupalija was able to cut through the paint and lay one off the glass with 14:44 to play in the first half, 11-6.

McCook answered the short run by the Knights with an 11-2 run over the next three minutes to push their lead to fourteen, with 11:39 remaining in the first half. Jevarrick Butler briefly answered the Indians run with a three pointer from the deep corner, but the Indians stretched their lead to fifteen as they captured buckets on back-to-back offensive possessions.

Trailing 26-11, the Knights offense hit their mark launching a 22-4 run over the final nine minutes to take the lead into the halftime break. During that stretch, German Plotnikov stole the ball and was able to get a two-handed slam in transition to cut the deficit to five, 27-22. Slavomyr Marchenko knotted the game up at 30-30 after getting his hands on a loose ball in the Indians backcourt and getting his layup to fall in transition. Plotnikov gave the Knights the lead with 1:08 to play in the first half, after he received the pass from Nolan Sughroue and connected from downtown, 33-30.

Knights run continued early in the second half, as Sughroue connected on a deep corner three to push the North Platte lead to six, 36-30. McCook answered with an 11-3 run over the next four minutes to recapture the lead with 15:07 to play, 41-37.

The Indians were able to extend their lead to seven, before the Knights trimmed the deficit to two as Plotnikov found Trevon Dennis in the paint for the lay in, 48-46. McCook pushed their lead back out to four on a layup, but the Knights answered as a Plotnikov jumper and a bucket by Dennis gave the Knights back the lead with 7:54 to play, 53-52.

Indians and Knights continued to battle on the offensive end trading buckets over the next 2:30, before a 6-0 run by McCook extended the deficit to seven, 64-57. Over the closing minutes, the Indians extended their lead to nine, but the Knights were unable to capture the momentum needed to complete the comeback.

Plotnikov led the Knights with 20 points in thirty-four minutes of action. Dennis and Danilo Matovic rounded out the Knights double digit scorers with 10 points and 11 points, respectively. Jason Eubank was the top rebounder for North Platte, finishing with seven rebounds in twenty-nine minutes.

North Platte finishes their 2021 campaign with a 7-13 overall record.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617505978112.png" alt="Jevarrick Butler goes in for a layup as Cortland Blake and Julian Lual look on during the first half of action at the Peter &amp; Dolores Graff Events Center.&nbsp;(Photo Credit: Brent Cobb, McCook Community College Sports Information Director)" />
 <figcaption>Jevarrick Butler goes in for a layup as Cortland Blake and Julian Lual look on during the first half of action at the Peter &amp; Dolores Graff Events Center.&nbsp;(Photo Credit: Brent Cobb, McCook Community College Sports Information Director)</figcaption>
 </figure>McCook, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team saw their 2021 season come to an end, as they fell to McCook Community College in the opening round of the Region IX Tournament on Saturday, 73-68.In the opening half, the Indians jumped out to an 8-2 lead in the opening three minutes of play. The Knights trimmed the deficit down to five, as Timur Krupalija was able to cut through the paint and lay one off the glass with 14:44 to play in the first half, 11-6.McCook answered the short run by the Knights with an 11-2 run over the next three minutes to push their lead to fourteen, with 11:39 remaining in the first half. Jevarrick Butler briefly answered the Indians run with a three pointer from the deep corner, but the Indians stretched their lead to fifteen as they captured buckets on back-to-back offensive possessions.Trailing 26-11, the Knights offense hit their mark launching a 22-4 run over the final nine minutes to take the lead into the halftime break. During that stretch, German Plotnikov stole the ball and was able to get a two-handed slam in transition to cut the deficit to five, 27-22. Slavomyr Marchenko knotted the game up at 30-30 after getting his hands on a loose ball in the Indians backcourt and getting his layup to fall in transition. Plotnikov gave the Knights the lead with 1:08 to play in the first half, after he received the pass from Nolan Sughroue and connected from downtown, 33-30.Knights run continued early in the second half, as Sughroue connected on a deep corner three to push the North Platte lead to six, 36-30. McCook answered with an 11-3 run over the next four minutes to recapture the lead with 15:07 to play, 41-37.The Indians were able to extend their lead to seven, before the Knights trimmed the deficit to two as Plotnikov found Trevon Dennis in the paint for the lay in, 48-46. McCook pushed their lead back out to four on a layup, but the Knights answered as a Plotnikov jumper and a bucket by Dennis gave the Knights back the lead with 7:54 to play, 53-52.Indians and Knights continued to battle on the offensive end trading buckets over the next 2:30, before a 6-0 run by McCook extended the deficit to seven, 64-57. Over the closing minutes, the Indians extended their lead to nine, but the Knights were unable to capture the momentum needed to complete the comeback.Plotnikov led the Knights with 20 points in thirty-four minutes of action. Dennis and Danilo Matovic rounded out the Knights double digit scorers with 10 points and 11 points, respectively. Jason Eubank was the top rebounder for North Platte, finishing with seven rebounds in twenty-nine minutes.North Platte finishes their 2021 campaign with a 7-13 overall record.

Knights season ends with loss in opening round of Region IX Tournament

Beatrice, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team advances to the District Championship for the second time in three seasons, after defeating Southeast Community College in the Region IX Championship on Saturday afternoon, 72-55.

“I am extremely proud of this team and our student-athletes deserve this Region IX Championship,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “We are excited about our next challenge of playing for the District Championship and a chance to compete for a spot in the National Tournament.”

In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 4-0 lead on an offensive putback by Diamond Moore-Heath. Southeast rallied with a 9-4 run over the next three minutes to take their first lead of the game with 4:47 remaining in the quarter, 9-8.

The Knights responded as Moore-Heath was able to complete an up and under move in the paint, as the Knights retook the lead with 3:06 to play, 10-9. North Platte kept their momentum going and stretched their lead to seven on a Janay Brauer buzzer-beating three at the quarter break, 19-12.

In the second quarter, the Storm cut the deficit to four in the opening thirty-nine seconds, before Kayla Pope got her hands on a loose ball and took it in for a layup, 21-15. The Knights stretched their lead to eight on a Jordyn Moon layup with 3:25 to play.

Southeast cut the deficit to seven, but Kanesha Hall scored on back-to-back possessions inside a minute to stretch their lead to eleven, 32-21. Southeast managed to cut into the deficit by connecting on a late three pointer, but the Knights still held an eight point lead at the break, 32-24.

Southeast used a 6-0 run to cut the deficit to four inside six minutes to play in the third quarter. An offensive rebound and putback from Moore-Heath halted the run and put the Knights back up by six, 39-33. Storm and Knights continued to trade points over the next two minutes, before the Knights extended their lead to eight on a mid-range jumper by Hall, 48-40.

The Storm trimmed the deficit once again down to four with 1:24 to play, but the Knights pushed their lead back out to eight on a Brauer layup by the end of the third quarter, 56-48.

Knights stretched their lead out to fourteen just four minutes into the fourth quarter, as Brauer drove to the basket and got her layup to fall, 62-48. Southeast went on a short 4-0 run over the next two minutes to cut the deficit to ten, with 4:33 to play.

North Platte was not done offensively and a strong defense limited chances for a Southeast comeback. The Knights outscored the Storm 7-2 over the final minutes and sealed their spot in the District Championship.

Moore-Heath recorded her eighth double-double of the season, totaling 22 points and 17 rebounds in thirty-one minutes of action. Brauer and Pope rounded out the Knights double-digit scorers with 17 points and 10 points, respectively.

The winner of the United Tribes Tech and Rochester, Region XIII Championship, will determine the opponent for the Knights in the District Championship. North Platte will host the District Championship on Saturday, April 10 inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617503491265.png" alt="Women's Basketball team poses for a team photo after they defeated Southeast Community College on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;(Photo Credit: Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public Information)" />
 <figcaption>Women's Basketball team poses for a team photo after they defeated Southeast Community College on Saturday afternoon.&nbsp;(Photo Credit: Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Daniel P. Stinman-MPCCBeatrice, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team advances to the District Championship for the second time in three seasons, after defeating Southeast Community College in the Region IX Championship on Saturday afternoon, 72-55.“I am extremely proud of this team and our student-athletes deserve this Region IX Championship,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “We are excited about our next challenge of playing for the District Championship and a chance to compete for a spot in the National Tournament.”In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 4-0 lead on an offensive putback by Diamond Moore-Heath. Southeast rallied with a 9-4 run over the next three minutes to take their first lead of the game with 4:47 remaining in the quarter, 9-8.The Knights responded as Moore-Heath was able to complete an up and under move in the paint, as the Knights retook the lead with 3:06 to play, 10-9. North Platte kept their momentum going and stretched their lead to seven on a Janay Brauer buzzer-beating three at the quarter break, 19-12.In the second quarter, the Storm cut the deficit to four in the opening thirty-nine seconds, before Kayla Pope got her hands on a loose ball and took it in for a layup, 21-15. The Knights stretched their lead to eight on a Jordyn Moon layup with 3:25 to play.Southeast cut the deficit to seven, but Kanesha Hall scored on back-to-back possessions inside a minute to stretch their lead to eleven, 32-21. Southeast managed to cut into the deficit by connecting on a late three pointer, but the Knights still held an eight point lead at the break, 32-24.Southeast used a 6-0 run to cut the deficit to four inside six minutes to play in the third quarter. An offensive rebound and putback from Moore-Heath halted the run and put the Knights back up by six, 39-33. Storm and Knights continued to trade points over the next two minutes, before the Knights extended their lead to eight on a mid-range jumper by Hall, 48-40.The Storm trimmed the deficit once again down to four with 1:24 to play, but the Knights pushed their lead back out to eight on a Brauer layup by the end of the third quarter, 56-48.Knights stretched their lead out to fourteen just four minutes into the fourth quarter, as Brauer drove to the basket and got her layup to fall, 62-48. Southeast went on a short 4-0 run over the next two minutes to cut the deficit to ten, with 4:33 to play.North Platte was not done offensively and a strong defense limited chances for a Southeast comeback. The Knights outscored the Storm 7-2 over the final minutes and sealed their spot in the District Championship.Moore-Heath recorded her eighth double-double of the season, totaling 22 points and 17 rebounds in thirty-one minutes of action. Brauer and Pope rounded out the Knights double-digit scorers with 17 points and 10 points, respectively.The winner of the United Tribes Tech and Rochester, Region XIII Championship, will determine the opponent for the Knights in the District Championship. North Platte will host the District Championship on Saturday, April 10 inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

Lady Knights basketball advance to District Championship

WAHPETON, N.D.-The North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball Team is headed to nationals for the first time since 2010.

The Knights defeated&nbsp;North Dakota State College of Science in two out of three games&nbsp;in&nbsp;Wahpeton, N.D. over the weekend – effectively punching their ticket to the National Junior College Athletic Association Volleyball National Championship.

“We played good volleyball against a good team, and it feels good to make it to the national tournament,” said&nbsp;NPCC&nbsp;head volleyball coach Alexa McCall.

The Knights won the&nbsp;first game of the&nbsp;Northwest Plains Championship 3-2 Friday then lost the second game Saturday morning with sets of 21-25, 18-25 and 20-25.

Peyton Negley, of North Platte, led the first game with 12 kills. Taylor Hansen, of Yuma, Colo., had 10 kills.&nbsp;Erica Hopping, of Sutherland, put up 33 assists, and Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo., went for 18 digs.

The Knights then bounced back with a 3-1 win in the final round to seal the deal. The sets were: 25-22, 25-23, 20-25 and 25-21.

Negley had 20 kills and 27 digs that time around. Hansen contributed 12 kills, and five blocks, and Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, posted 11 kills.

“I am so proud of this team,” McCall said. “They came out after that first game and played like a different team. It was a team effort, and they made it happen. We set goals at the beginning of the year, and they continue to impress me.”

The national tournament will be April 13-15 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617484838005.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCWAHPETON, N.D.-The North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball Team is headed to nationals for the first time since 2010.The Knights defeated&nbsp;North Dakota State College of Science in two out of three games&nbsp;in&nbsp;Wahpeton, N.D. over the weekend – effectively punching their ticket to the National Junior College Athletic Association Volleyball National Championship.“We played good volleyball against a good team, and it feels good to make it to the national tournament,” said&nbsp;NPCC&nbsp;head volleyball coach Alexa McCall.The Knights won the&nbsp;first game of the&nbsp;Northwest Plains Championship 3-2 Friday then lost the second game Saturday morning with sets of 21-25, 18-25 and 20-25.Peyton Negley, of North Platte, led the first game with 12 kills. Taylor Hansen, of Yuma, Colo., had 10 kills.&nbsp;Erica Hopping, of Sutherland, put up 33 assists, and Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo., went for 18 digs.The Knights then bounced back with a 3-1 win in the final round to seal the deal. The sets were: 25-22, 25-23, 20-25 and 25-21.Negley had 20 kills and 27 digs that time around. Hansen contributed 12 kills, and five blocks, and Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, posted 11 kills.“I am so proud of this team,” McCall said. “They came out after that first game and played like a different team. It was a team effort, and they made it happen. We set goals at the beginning of the year, and they continue to impress me.”The national tournament will be April 13-15 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball qualifies for nationals

Match two first serve - 11 am Match three - 30 mins after the conclusion of Match two (if needed)&nbsp;

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4.3 NPCC Knights District G Volleyball vs NDSCS Day 2 - LIVESTREAM

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4.2.21 NPCC Knights Volleyball DISTRICT G FINALS Day one - LIVESTREAM

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NPHS Tennis: NP invite from 4/1 results

NPHS Track and Field: Buffalo Bill invite FULL RESULTS

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Christian Bishop, who excelled as Creighton's undersized center the past two years, is planning to transfer.

Bishop announced on Twitter on Wednesday night he would enter the NCAA transfer portal.

"After coming to a decision with my family, I believe it's best for me to join the transfer portal and explore my opportunities to grow as a player and a person," Bishop wrote. "I would like to thank all of the Bluejay fans for supporting me and giving me a place to call home."

The 6-foot-7, 220-pound Bishop averaged 11 points and 6.4 rebounds as a junior, and his 68.1% shooting ranks No. 2 on the school list for single-season field goal percentage. He started all 62 games the past two seasons.

He averaged 13 points and 10.3 rebounds in the Bluejays' three NCAA Tournament games and had double-doubles in their wins over UC Santa Barbara and Ohio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566913090971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Christian Bishop, who excelled as Creighton's undersized center the past two years, is planning to transfer.Bishop announced on Twitter on Wednesday night he would enter the NCAA transfer portal."After coming to a decision with my family, I believe it's best for me to join the transfer portal and explore my opportunities to grow as a player and a person," Bishop wrote. "I would like to thank all of the Bluejay fans for supporting me and giving me a place to call home."The 6-foot-7, 220-pound Bishop averaged 11 points and 6.4 rebounds as a junior, and his 68.1% shooting ranks No. 2 on the school list for single-season field goal percentage. He started all 62 games the past two seasons.He averaged 13 points and 10.3 rebounds in the Bluejays' three NCAA Tournament games and had double-doubles in their wins over UC Santa Barbara and Ohio.

Creighton center Christian Bishop plans to transfer

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County sheriff says detectives have determined what caused Tiger Woods to crash his SUV last month in Southern California but declined to release details, citing unspecified privacy concerns for the golf star. 

Woods suffered serious injuries in the Feb. 23 crash just outside Los Angeles. He is in Florida recovering from multiple surgeries. 

Sheriff Alex Villanueva on Wednesday said detectives have determined what caused the collision but claimed investigators need permission from Woods to release information about the crash. Woods previously named his yacht “Privacy.” 

 A police expert refuted Villanueva's privacy claims.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County sheriff says detectives have determined what caused Tiger Woods to crash his SUV last month in Southern California but declined to release details, citing unspecified privacy concerns for the golf star. Woods suffered serious injuries in the Feb. 23 crash just outside Los Angeles. He is in Florida recovering from multiple surgeries. Sheriff Alex Villanueva on Wednesday said detectives have determined what caused the collision but claimed investigators need permission from Woods to release information about the crash. Woods previously named his yacht “Privacy.” A police expert refuted Villanueva's privacy claims.

Cause of Tiger Woods crash found, officials won't reveal it

Get in shape, learn the fastest growing sport in America and get ready for the upcoming Inaugural Nebraskaland Days Cowboy Pickleball tournament June 24th,25th, &amp; 26th.

Pickleball is proven to improve mood, reduce depression and boost self-esteem. It also encourages good communication, team building and leadership skills as well as social interaction-all essential for maintaining positive mental health.

Pickleball attracts people of all types and walks of life to both recreation and tournament play. Meeting new friends and competitors is always beneficial to your mental health.

Pickleball is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced

players. It is a fun and social sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It is played

with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball and is most often played as doubles.

Regular pickleball schedule and other details available @ www.northplattepickleball.com

Like us on Facebook @ North Platte Pickleball

Get in shape, learn the fastest growing sport in America and get ready for the upcoming Inaugural Nebraskaland Days Cowboy Pickleball tournament June 24th,25th, &amp; 26th.Ages 16-96<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617283850860.jpeg" alt="Nebraska Land Days pickleball tourny flier" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Land Days pickleball tourny flier</figcaption>
 </figure>Pickleball is proven to improve mood, reduce depression and boost self-esteem. It also encourages good communication, team building and leadership skills as well as social interaction-all essential for maintaining positive mental health.Pickleball attracts people of all types and walks of life to both recreation and tournament play. Meeting new friends and competitors is always beneficial to your mental health.New to Pickleball?Pickleball is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experiencedplayers. It is a fun and social sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It is playedwith a paddle and a perforated plastic ball and is most often played as doubles.Regular pickleball schedule and other details available @ www.northplattepickleball.comLike us on Facebook @ North Platte Pickleball

North Platte Pickleball NLD tournament! 

Story by MPCC marketing and public information

The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team struggled to find their groove against the McCook Community College Indians Wednesday in McCook sustaining an 8-1 loss in the first game of a doubleheader.

Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, took to the rubber for the Knights. The righty allowed seven hits and eight runs over six innings, striking out one and walking one.

Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., and Jayden Horner, of Firestone, Colo., each managed one hit to lead the Knights.

The Knights also lost the second game 9-1.

Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., led things off in the circle for the Knights. Ramirez went five innings, allowing nine runs on eight hits and striking out one.

Bredleau-Beehler, Horner, Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., all had one hit to lead the Knights.

"Our bats have been cold the last two weeks," said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins. "We need to get back to hitting with confidence and moving runners."

The next game for the Knights will also be on the road. They will travel to Hastings College April 6 for a doubleheader beginning at 4 p.m.

Story by MPCC marketing and public informationThe North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team struggled to find their groove against the McCook Community College Indians Wednesday in McCook sustaining an 8-1 loss in the first game of a doubleheader.Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, took to the rubber for the Knights. The righty allowed seven hits and eight runs over six innings, striking out one and walking one.Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., and Jayden Horner, of Firestone, Colo., each managed one hit to lead the Knights.The Knights also lost the second game 9-1.Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., led things off in the circle for the Knights. Ramirez went five innings, allowing nine runs on eight hits and striking out one.Bredleau-Beehler, Horner, Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., all had one hit to lead the Knights.The team is now 4-20 on the season."Our bats have been cold the last two weeks," said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins. "We need to get back to hitting with confidence and moving runners."The next game for the Knights will also be on the road. They will travel to Hastings College April 6 for a doubleheader beginning at 4 p.m.

NPCC Softball drops doubleheader to McCook

Earlier this week NFL team owners put into place an action they have been looking forward to for years and finally got with the new CBA.&nbsp;

An extra game has been added to the season.&nbsp;

NFL teams will now play 17 contests in the regular season, each team will still receive only one bye week. Teams will alternate playing nine and eight home games every year and the extra game will be played against a nonconference opponent based on standings from the previous season.&nbsp;

Also to note for fans, this year's Super Bowl has been moved back from Feb 6th to Feb 13th (Happy Valentine's day the following day!).&nbsp;

Here is how the Denver Broncos opponents stack up (note the NFL has only put out home and away games, no dates have been released as of this publication)

HOME&nbsp; (* denotes a division opponent):&nbsp;

Los Angeles Chargers * Kansas City Chiefs * Las Vegas Raiders * Cincinnati Bengals Philadelphia Eagles Baltimore Ravens Washington Football Team New York Jets Detroit Lions

Los Angeles Chargers * Kansas City Chiefs * Las Vegas Raiders * Cleveland Browns Dallas Cowboys New York Giants Pittsburg Steelers Jacksonville Jaguars

Earlier this week NFL team owners put into place an action they have been looking forward to for years and finally got with the new CBA.&nbsp;An extra game has been added to the season.&nbsp;NFL teams will now play 17 contests in the regular season, each team will still receive only one bye week. Teams will alternate playing nine and eight home games every year and the extra game will be played against a nonconference opponent based on standings from the previous season.&nbsp;Also to note for fans, this year's Super Bowl has been moved back from Feb 6th to Feb 13th (Happy Valentine's day the following day!).&nbsp;Here is how the Denver Broncos opponents stack up (note the NFL has only put out home and away games, no dates have been released as of this publication)HOME&nbsp; (* denotes a division opponent):&nbsp;Los Angeles Chargers * Kansas City Chiefs * Las Vegas Raiders * Cincinnati Bengals Philadelphia Eagles Baltimore Ravens Washington Football Team New York Jets Detroit LionsAWAY:&nbsp;Los Angeles Chargers * Kansas City Chiefs * Las Vegas Raiders * Cleveland Browns Dallas Cowboys New York Giants Pittsburg Steelers Jacksonville Jaguars