Story and photo by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information

North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team advances to the DII Region IX Championship on Saturday, April 3, by defeating the Central Community College Raiders on Tuesday night, 69-33.

“Tonight was a complete defensive effort,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “I am very proud of our focus and execution tonight and look forward to our next challenge on Saturday against Southeast”

In the first quarter, the Knights took their first lead of the game at the 7:19 mark as Diamond Moore-Heath drove through the lane and was able to get a contested layup to fall, 4-2. Central responded on their next possession to tie it up at 4-4, before the Knights used a 10-2 run to extend their lead to eight on a deep corner three by Janay Brauer, 14-6. North Platte outscored the Raiders 5-3 over the remaining minutes to take a ten point lead into the second quarter, 19-9.

Knights continued to roll offensively early in the second quarter using an 8-2 run to push their lead to sixteen, as Jennessy Aragon-Dennis connected on the front end of a pair of free throws. The Knights pushed their lead out to eighteen on a jumper by Viri Escobar, before the Raiders narrowed the deficit to fifteen at the break, 31-16.&nbsp;

In the third quarter, the Knights used a 20-2 run to extend their lead to 51-18 over the opening seven minutes. The Raiders trimmed the deficit down to twenty-eight inside a minute to play, but the Knights quickly extended their lead back to thirty by the end of the third quarter, 55-25.

The Knights energy continued into the fourth quarter, as Moore-Heath found Amber Wolever for an open jumper to extend the lead to thirty-two, 57-25. A short 4-0 run by the Raiders trimmed the lead down to twenty-eight, before the Knights answered with their own 8-2 run to push their lead to 65-31.

Knights held the Raiders to just one more field goal, while Kanesha Hall closed out the scoring for North Platte with four points over the final minutes of action.

Moore-Heath led the Knights with 18 points and eight rebounds, while her teammate Jordan Moon chipped in 10 points and collected six rebounds off the bench.

North Platte will look to advance to the District F Championship for the second time in three seasons, with a win over Southeast Community College on Saturday. The Knights and Storm split the regular season series with each team winning on the road. Tip for the DII Region IX Championship is set for 2:00 p.m. inside the Truman Center Gymnasium in Beatrice, Neb.

Story and photo by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public InformationNorth Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team advances to the DII Region IX Championship on Saturday, April 3, by defeating the Central Community College Raiders on Tuesday night, 69-33.“Tonight was a complete defensive effort,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “I am very proud of our focus and execution tonight and look forward to our next challenge on Saturday against Southeast”In the first quarter, the Knights took their first lead of the game at the 7:19 mark as Diamond Moore-Heath drove through the lane and was able to get a contested layup to fall, 4-2. Central responded on their next possession to tie it up at 4-4, before the Knights used a 10-2 run to extend their lead to eight on a deep corner three by Janay Brauer, 14-6. North Platte outscored the Raiders 5-3 over the remaining minutes to take a ten point lead into the second quarter, 19-9.Knights continued to roll offensively early in the second quarter using an 8-2 run to push their lead to sixteen, as Jennessy Aragon-Dennis connected on the front end of a pair of free throws. The Knights pushed their lead out to eighteen on a jumper by Viri Escobar, before the Raiders narrowed the deficit to fifteen at the break, 31-16.&nbsp;In the third quarter, the Knights used a 20-2 run to extend their lead to 51-18 over the opening seven minutes. The Raiders trimmed the deficit down to twenty-eight inside a minute to play, but the Knights quickly extended their lead back to thirty by the end of the third quarter, 55-25.The Knights energy continued into the fourth quarter, as Moore-Heath found Amber Wolever for an open jumper to extend the lead to thirty-two, 57-25. A short 4-0 run by the Raiders trimmed the lead down to twenty-eight, before the Knights answered with their own 8-2 run to push their lead to 65-31.Knights held the Raiders to just one more field goal, while Kanesha Hall closed out the scoring for North Platte with four points over the final minutes of action.Moore-Heath led the Knights with 18 points and eight rebounds, while her teammate Jordan Moon chipped in 10 points and collected six rebounds off the bench.North Platte will look to advance to the District F Championship for the second time in three seasons, with a win over Southeast Community College on Saturday. The Knights and Storm split the regular season series with each team winning on the road. Tip for the DII Region IX Championship is set for 2:00 p.m. inside the Truman Center Gymnasium in Beatrice, Neb.

Knights advance to the Region IX Championship

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information

North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team finished off their 2021 regular season with a victory over Region IX opponent Western Nebraska Community College on Tuesday night, 106-89.

In the opening half, the Knights jumped out to a 7-0 lead after Jevarrick Butler connected on a pair of free throws. Western Nebraska responded with their own 8-2 run to cut the deficit down to one in the opening minutes of action, 9-8. Butler answered with a free throw line jumper, which sparked an 8-3 run by North Platte to push their lead to six, 17-11.

Cougars attempted to halt the Knights momentum with a bucket with 12:40 to play, but the Knights extended their lead to eight as Butler cut through the defense and laid it off the glass, 21-13. Cougars narrowed the margin back to within one possession by going on a 10-3 run to pull back within one, 24-23.

Knights and Cougars continued to trade buckets over the next few minutes, before Western Nebraska tied the game up at 29-29. Inside the final six minutes of the half, the Knights outscored the Cougars 23-8 to take a fifteen point lead into the half, 52-37.

In the second half, the Knights pushed their lead out to twenty-two in the opening minutes on a three by Jason Eubank, 69-47. The Knights lead hovered around the twenty point margin, until Western Nebraska trimmed the deficit down to twelve as the clock moved inside the final five minutes.

Trevon Dennis halted the Cougars momentum by grabbing his own offensive rebound and laying it off the glass, which ignited a 10-4 run for North Platte. The Knights continued to score inside the final minute of regulation, as Butler connected on a pair of free throws and a deep three as the Knights closed out the Cougars.

North Platte finished the night with six players in double digits including Butler (24), German Plotnikov (18), Eubank (16), Danilo Matovic (13), Nolan Sughroue (12), and Dennis (11).

Knights shot 59.7 percent from the floor, 35.7 percent from beyond the arc, and 77.1 percent from the free throw line against the Cougars.

The Knights (7-12) will be on the road for the opening round of the DI Region IX Tournament. North Platte will travel to McCook, Neb. on Saturday, April 3 to take on the Indians of McCook Community College. North Platte defeated the Indians in both regular season meetings.

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public InformationNorth Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team finished off their 2021 regular season with a victory over Region IX opponent Western Nebraska Community College on Tuesday night, 106-89.In the opening half, the Knights jumped out to a 7-0 lead after Jevarrick Butler connected on a pair of free throws. Western Nebraska responded with their own 8-2 run to cut the deficit down to one in the opening minutes of action, 9-8. Butler answered with a free throw line jumper, which sparked an 8-3 run by North Platte to push their lead to six, 17-11.Cougars attempted to halt the Knights momentum with a bucket with 12:40 to play, but the Knights extended their lead to eight as Butler cut through the defense and laid it off the glass, 21-13. Cougars narrowed the margin back to within one possession by going on a 10-3 run to pull back within one, 24-23.Knights and Cougars continued to trade buckets over the next few minutes, before Western Nebraska tied the game up at 29-29. Inside the final six minutes of the half, the Knights outscored the Cougars 23-8 to take a fifteen point lead into the half, 52-37.In the second half, the Knights pushed their lead out to twenty-two in the opening minutes on a three by Jason Eubank, 69-47. The Knights lead hovered around the twenty point margin, until Western Nebraska trimmed the deficit down to twelve as the clock moved inside the final five minutes.Trevon Dennis halted the Cougars momentum by grabbing his own offensive rebound and laying it off the glass, which ignited a 10-4 run for North Platte. The Knights continued to score inside the final minute of regulation, as Butler connected on a pair of free throws and a deep three as the Knights closed out the Cougars.North Platte finished the night with six players in double digits including Butler (24), German Plotnikov (18), Eubank (16), Danilo Matovic (13), Nolan Sughroue (12), and Dennis (11).Knights shot 59.7 percent from the floor, 35.7 percent from beyond the arc, and 77.1 percent from the free throw line against the Cougars.The Knights (7-12) will be on the road for the opening round of the DI Region IX Tournament. North Platte will travel to McCook, Neb. on Saturday, April 3 to take on the Indians of McCook Community College. North Platte defeated the Indians in both regular season meetings.

Knights close regular season with win over Cougars

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3.30.21 NPCC Mens basketball @ Western Neb - LIVESTREAM

News Release North Platte Community College

North Platte Community College Head Volleyball Coach Alexa McCall has been named as the Region IX Division II Coach of the Year by the National Junior College Athletic Association, and four of her players have been named to the All-Region IX Team.

Those players are Erica Hopping, of Sutherland; Taylor Hansen, of Yuma, Colo.; Peyton Negley, of North Platte; and Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo.

Hopping is sitting second in the region for assists per set with an average of 7.91. Throughout the season, she has provided a total of 601 assists, ranking her 17th in the nation.

Hansen has had 207 kills, an average of 2.27 per set, putting her third in the region and 43rd nationally.

Negley is leading the region in kills and is ranked 18th in the nation. She has had a total of 255 kills this season, averaging 2.83 per set.

Valle is number one in the region for digs and is 28th in the nation. She contributed a total of 318 digs with an average of 3.38 digs per set.

McCall and the players were recognized for their accomplishments after winning the DII Region IX Championship in North Platte on Saturday.

The team as a whole is currently receiving votes in the NJCAA DII volleyball poll.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617130841197.png" alt="North Platte Community College volleyball players Ruby Valle, Taylor Hansen, Peyton Negley and Erica Hopping, hold up their certificates for being named to the NJCAA All-Region IX Team. Their coach, Alexa McCall, was named Region IX Division II Coach of the Year." />
 <figcaption>North Platte Community College volleyball players Ruby Valle, Taylor Hansen, Peyton Negley and Erica Hopping, hold up their certificates for being named to the NJCAA All-Region IX Team. Their coach, Alexa McCall, was named Region IX Division II Coach of the Year.</figcaption>
 </figure>News Release North Platte Community CollegeNorth Platte Community College Head Volleyball Coach Alexa McCall has been named as the Region IX Division II Coach of the Year by the National Junior College Athletic Association, and four of her players have been named to the All-Region IX Team.Those players are Erica Hopping, of Sutherland; Taylor Hansen, of Yuma, Colo.; Peyton Negley, of North Platte; and Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo.Hopping is sitting second in the region for assists per set with an average of 7.91. Throughout the season, she has provided a total of 601 assists, ranking her 17th in the nation.Hansen has had 207 kills, an average of 2.27 per set, putting her third in the region and 43rd nationally.Negley is leading the region in kills and is ranked 18th in the nation. She has had a total of 255 kills this season, averaging 2.83 per set.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617130885495.png" alt="McCall" />
 <figcaption>McCall</figcaption>
 </figure>Valle is number one in the region for digs and is 28th in the nation. She contributed a total of 318 digs with an average of 3.38 digs per set.McCall and the players were recognized for their accomplishments after winning the DII Region IX Championship in North Platte on Saturday.The team as a whole is currently receiving votes in the NJCAA DII volleyball poll.&nbsp;

NPCC volleyball team earns All-Region honors

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska Football Coach Scott Frost, the Husker coordinators and four student-athletes met with the media Monday afternoon, as the Huskers are set to begin spring practice on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Frost hit upon several topics in the media session, including the 2020 non-conference schedule, the role that Mike Dawson will play in overseeing special teams, the experience and leadership of the returnees on defense, as well as the return of physical testing and the performance index.

"We started semester later, so we were able to give the guys more time off before we started in and get a full winter conditioning in," Frost said. "We just did testing for the first time since I've been here, the old-school testing like we used to do with performance index and 40s, 10s, agility, vertical jump, squats and cleans, and seeing the improvement that our guys made in those areas that gives them a lot of confidence.  We certainly owe a lot to Zach (Duval), Andrew Strop and the strength staff for the improvement that we made.

"The weather should be good, and I'm glad we don't have spring break in the middle to break it up. I think we'll get more out of spring practice that way."

For Frost and other coaches around the country, the return of super seniors, 2020 seniors who could have finished their eligibility but have returned for the upcoming season, provides a unique dynamic along with a significant part of the roster which has yet to complete a spring practice on campus.

"I'm excited to have spring ball," Frost said.  "Some of our young players that needed it didn't get it last year. We had a conversation today with the coaching staff about finding that balance with some of the old guys. I can't tell you how excited I am that we have that many super seniors coming back that could have gone anywhere and played and wanted to be back here. So, we got to find a balance with them to make sure that we're doing what we need to do to get those guys better. We'll find the right balance between giving the young guys reps and making sure the guys who have been here for a long time get their share and get ready to play in the fall."

For the Husker newcomers, one advantage is an opportunity to get to know their coaches during January, when the staff is usually recruiting. Frost believes that time will be beneficial as they get set for spring ball.

"We've gotten to know those guys, and I think they have integrated into the team very well. I think that is big head start for them heading into the spring," Frost said. "Those young guys that are here we are going to throw them in the deep end in the spring and let them compete. I am excited to see how that turns out."

The Huskers begin the first of 15 spring practices on Tuesday, as spring practice will culminate with the Red-White Spring game on Saturday, May 1.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska Football Coach Scott Frost, the Husker coordinators and four student-athletes met with the media Monday afternoon, as the Huskers are set to begin spring practice on Tuesday.&nbsp;Frost hit upon several topics in the media session, including the 2020 non-conference schedule, the role that Mike Dawson will play in overseeing special teams, the experience and leadership of the returnees on defense, as well as the return of physical testing and the performance index."We started semester later, so we were able to give the guys more time off before we started in and get a full winter conditioning in," Frost said. "We just did testing for the first time since I've been here, the old-school testing like we used to do with performance index and 40s, 10s, agility, vertical jump, squats and cleans, and seeing the improvement that our guys made in those areas that gives them a lot of confidence. We certainly owe a lot to Zach (Duval), Andrew Strop and the strength staff for the improvement that we made."The weather should be good, and I'm glad we don't have spring break in the middle to break it up. I think we'll get more out of spring practice that way."For Frost and other coaches around the country, the return of super seniors, 2020 seniors who could have finished their eligibility but have returned for the upcoming season, provides a unique dynamic along with a significant part of the roster which has yet to complete a spring practice on campus."I'm excited to have spring ball," Frost said. "Some of our young players that needed it didn't get it last year. We had a conversation today with the coaching staff about finding that balance with some of the old guys. I can't tell you how excited I am that we have that many super seniors coming back that could have gone anywhere and played and wanted to be back here. So, we got to find a balance with them to make sure that we're doing what we need to do to get those guys better. We'll find the right balance between giving the young guys reps and making sure the guys who have been here for a long time get their share and get ready to play in the fall."For the Husker newcomers, one advantage is an opportunity to get to know their coaches during January, when the staff is usually recruiting. Frost believes that time will be beneficial as they get set for spring ball."We've gotten to know those guys, and I think they have integrated into the team very well. I think that is big head start for them heading into the spring," Frost said. "Those young guys that are here we are going to throw them in the deep end in the spring and let them compete. I am excited to see how that turns out."The Huskers begin the first of 15 spring practices on Tuesday, as spring practice will culminate with the Red-White Spring game on Saturday, May 1.

Frost, Huskers Preview Spring Practice

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Area Sports: 2021 Paxton boys golf invite RESULTS

By Daryl Bauer Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. – Do you know what it means when the calendar approaches April Fool’s Day? No, it is not time to prank your fishing buddy. It is time for the walleyes to spawn.

Many things can cue spawning in freshwater fish: weather, water temperature, moon phase, etc. One of the most important cues is the amount of daylight. For that reason, spawning tends to occur about the same time every year. So, the walleyes will be spawning April 1.

Not all fish in a population spawn at the same time. Some spawn early and some late. The result is the spawn period will last a period of weeks. Typically, males are the first to anticipate spawning; they “come early and stay late.” Male walleyes will be present on spawning habitats for days, even weeks, before and after peak spawning activity. Females stage near the spawning habitat, then move up when they are ripe and ready to spawn. Normally, females will deposit all of their eggs in one night of spawning activity.

Walleyes are broadcast spawners. Eggs and milt are scattered over spawning habitat. Neither parent provides any care or protection for the eggs or young.

Ideal spawning habitat for walleyes is rock a little big larger than gravel. That rocky substrate needs to be well-aerated by water flow, current or wind and wave action.

Nebraska waters have little rock in them, so walleyes use the next best thing – rock rip-rap or soil cement on the dam faces of reservoirs. During the spawn period, most adult walleyes will congregate on or near those dam faces, although a few fish will use other rocky habitats or even migrate up feeder streams or rivers.

Many Nebraska anglers consider the walleye spawn to be an opportune time to catch walleyes. That may be especially true for shore anglers as the walleyes congregate on the shoreline while spawning. Certainly, the spawn period is a time when the walleyes are concentrated in areas easily accessible to anglers. However, during the spawn period the fish have things other than feeding on their mind. As a matter of fact, walleyes are much more catchable, even for shore anglers, at times before and after the spawn.

Nevertheless, the excitement of numbers of adult walleyes, including some big females, splashing near shoreline after dark entices many anglers to pursue walleyes during the spawn. Fishing during that period is not a threat to Nebraska walleye populations, so anglers are allowed to fish at that time.

Most walleyes caught during the spawn period will be the smaller males. Occasionally a big female may take a bait, and that motivates everyone to keep fishing.

During the spawn, most anglers choose to fish after dark when the walleyes are actively spawning. Casting and retrieving minnow-imitating crankbaits accounts for most walleyes caught during the spawn. However, during cloudy, rainy or windy days, and at twilight periods, walleyes also can be caught on the spawning grounds. The same minnow-imitating crankbaits can work at that time, but a variety of jigs also will catch fish. Live minnows can work as well, if allowed.

Two reminders: a foul-hooked fish is not a legal catch and must be returned to the water immediately, and intentionally snagging a spawning walleye or capturing one in a landing net also is prohibited.

Catch-and-release of walleyes larger than about 22 inches will ensure that the females are given an opportunity to spawn and pass on their genetics. Fish larger than 28 inches can qualify for a Nebraska Master Angler Award if they are released after snapping a few photos.

To view a variety of online fishing resources by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMjkuMzc5MTE0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoaW5nLyJ9.rUJlbxzvExqsFwk0WtiaGNO_UUBWaSfkQm8ASDSdOWQ/s/1372948182/br/101011535562-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/fishing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617052723806.png" alt="Anglers fish for walleyes on a spring day at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Keith County. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)" />
 <figcaption>Anglers fish for walleyes on a spring day at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Keith County. (Nebraskaland Magazine/NGPC)</figcaption>
 </figure>By Daryl Bauer Nebraska Game and Parks CommissionLINCOLN, Neb. – Do you know what it means when the calendar approaches April Fool’s Day? No, it is not time to prank your fishing buddy. It is time for the walleyes to spawn.Many things can cue spawning in freshwater fish: weather, water temperature, moon phase, etc. One of the most important cues is the amount of daylight. For that reason, spawning tends to occur about the same time every year. So, the walleyes will be spawning April 1.Not all fish in a population spawn at the same time. Some spawn early and some late. The result is the spawn period will last a period of weeks. Typically, males are the first to anticipate spawning; they “come early and stay late.” Male walleyes will be present on spawning habitats for days, even weeks, before and after peak spawning activity. Females stage near the spawning habitat, then move up when they are ripe and ready to spawn. Normally, females will deposit all of their eggs in one night of spawning activity.Walleyes are broadcast spawners. Eggs and milt are scattered over spawning habitat. Neither parent provides any care or protection for the eggs or young.Ideal spawning habitat for walleyes is rock a little big larger than gravel. That rocky substrate needs to be well-aerated by water flow, current or wind and wave action.Nebraska waters have little rock in them, so walleyes use the next best thing – rock rip-rap or soil cement on the dam faces of reservoirs. During the spawn period, most adult walleyes will congregate on or near those dam faces, although a few fish will use other rocky habitats or even migrate up feeder streams or rivers.Many Nebraska anglers consider the walleye spawn to be an opportune time to catch walleyes. That may be especially true for shore anglers as the walleyes congregate on the shoreline while spawning. Certainly, the spawn period is a time when the walleyes are concentrated in areas easily accessible to anglers. However, during the spawn period the fish have things other than feeding on their mind. As a matter of fact, walleyes are much more catchable, even for shore anglers, at times before and after the spawn.Nevertheless, the excitement of numbers of adult walleyes, including some big females, splashing near shoreline after dark entices many anglers to pursue walleyes during the spawn. Fishing during that period is not a threat to Nebraska walleye populations, so anglers are allowed to fish at that time.Most walleyes caught during the spawn period will be the smaller males. Occasionally a big female may take a bait, and that motivates everyone to keep fishing.During the spawn, most anglers choose to fish after dark when the walleyes are actively spawning. Casting and retrieving minnow-imitating crankbaits accounts for most walleyes caught during the spawn. However, during cloudy, rainy or windy days, and at twilight periods, walleyes also can be caught on the spawning grounds. The same minnow-imitating crankbaits can work at that time, but a variety of jigs also will catch fish. Live minnows can work as well, if allowed.Two reminders: a foul-hooked fish is not a legal catch and must be returned to the water immediately, and intentionally snagging a spawning walleye or capturing one in a landing net also is prohibited.Catch-and-release of walleyes larger than about 22 inches will ensure that the females are given an opportunity to spawn and pass on their genetics. Fish larger than 28 inches can qualify for a Nebraska Master Angler Award if they are released after snapping a few photos.To view a variety of online fishing resources by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMjkuMzc5MTE0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9maXNoaW5nLyJ9.rUJlbxzvExqsFwk0WtiaGNO_UUBWaSfkQm8ASDSdOWQ/s/1372948182/br/101011535562-l" target="_blank">outdoornebraska.gov/fishing</a>.

No foolin', annual walleye spawn is here

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Local organizers of the College World Series are opening its talent search for national anthem singers to everyone in the country.

Soloists, duos and groups can submit videos for consideration. Fourteen will be chosen, with the top 12 shown on the video boards at TD Ameritrade Park at the first 12 games. Additional videos will be used if there are 13th and 14th games.

Submissions can be a cappella or with accompaniment or audio engineering tools. Unlike previous years, performers will not need to be in Omaha at any point in the process.

Applications can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cwsomaha.com/" target="_blank">www.cwsomaha.com</a>. The deadline is 11:59 p.m. on April 18. Winners will be notified via email by mid-May.

The CWS is scheduled for June 19-29 or 30.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/5/1559064094358-MensCWSlogo.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Local organizers of the College World Series are opening its talent search for national anthem singers to everyone in the country.Soloists, duos and groups can submit videos for consideration. Fourteen will be chosen, with the top 12 shown on the video boards at TD Ameritrade Park at the first 12 games. Additional videos will be used if there are 13th and 14th games.Submissions can be a cappella or with accompaniment or audio engineering tools. Unlike previous years, performers will not need to be in Omaha at any point in the process.Applications can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cwsomaha.com/" target="_blank">www.cwsomaha.com</a>. The deadline is 11:59 p.m. on April 18. Winners will be notified via email by mid-May.The CWS is scheduled for June 19-29 or 30.

Video auditions deciding College World Series anthem singers

Area Track: Results from North Platte St Pats/Hershey invite

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NPHS Boys Golf: Results from 3/26-28

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top-seeded Gonzaga did against Creighton what it’s done throughout this unblemished season. 

Drew Timme scored 22 points and the top-seeded Bulldogs rolled past the fifth-seeded Bluejays with versatile offense and efficient defense to win 83-65 in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. 

Andrew Nembhard added 17 points for the Bulldogs, who have won a school-record 33 consecutive games and extended their Division I record to 26 straight double-digit wins. 

The Zags will face sixth-seeded Southern California or seventh-seeded Oregon on Tuesday in the West regional final. 

Marcus Zegarowski scored 19 points to lead the Bluejays, who were trying to reach their first Elite Eight since 1941.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Top-seeded Gonzaga did against Creighton what it’s done throughout this unblemished season. Drew Timme scored 22 points and the top-seeded Bulldogs rolled past the fifth-seeded Bluejays with versatile offense and efficient defense to win 83-65 in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Andrew Nembhard added 17 points for the Bulldogs, who have won a school-record 33 consecutive games and extended their Division I record to 26 straight double-digit wins. The Zags will face sixth-seeded Southern California or seventh-seeded Oregon on Tuesday in the West regional final. Marcus Zegarowski scored 19 points to lead the Bluejays, who were trying to reach their first Elite Eight since 1941.

Unbeaten Zags keep rolling with 83-65 rout of Creighton

North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team saw their fifteen point lead erased in the second half, as the Trojans come from behind to defeat the Knights on Saturday afternoon, 85-75.

Knights hit their stride early on the offensive end in the first half, jumping out to an 11-4 advantage on a three by Jevarrick Butler. The Trojans answered with a 7-0 run to knot the game up with 13:32 to play in the first half.

The Knights answered with a 16-4 run over the next seven minutes to push their lead out to twelve. Trinidad State halted the Knights run momentarily with a basket in the paint, but the Knights would not be denied and went on a short 6-2 run to push their lead back to thirteen with four minutes to play, 32-19. North Platte continued to hit their stride on the offensive end outscoring the Trojans 9-7 over the remaining minutes of the first half, to take a fifteen point lead into the half, 41-26.

In the second half, the Trojans turned the table and used a 13-3 run to pull within one with 6:32 to play, 67-66. Trojans continued their offensive attack and took their first lead of the game just thirty seconds later, 68-67.

Trailing for the first time in the game, the Knights matched the Trojans basket for basket before regaining the lead as Dennis completed the old fashioned three play, 74-72. The Trojans reversed the momentum down the stretch and closed the game on a 13-1 run, to defeat the Knights on Saturday afternoon.

German Plotnikov led the Knights in scoring totaling 30 points on 10-of-17 shooting. Caleb Horne was the top rebounder for North Platte collecting ten rebounds in twenty-four minutes off the bench.

Knights (6-12) will round out their 2021 regular season schedule on Tuesday, March 30 against Western Nebraska Community College. Tip is set for 7:00 p.m. in Scottsbluff, Neb.

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public InformationNorth Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College men’s basketball team saw their fifteen point lead erased in the second half, as the Trojans come from behind to defeat the Knights on Saturday afternoon, 85-75.Knights hit their stride early on the offensive end in the first half, jumping out to an 11-4 advantage on a three by Jevarrick Butler. The Trojans answered with a 7-0 run to knot the game up with 13:32 to play in the first half.The Knights answered with a 16-4 run over the next seven minutes to push their lead out to twelve. Trinidad State halted the Knights run momentarily with a basket in the paint, but the Knights would not be denied and went on a short 6-2 run to push their lead back to thirteen with four minutes to play, 32-19. North Platte continued to hit their stride on the offensive end outscoring the Trojans 9-7 over the remaining minutes of the first half, to take a fifteen point lead into the half, 41-26.In the second half, the Trojans turned the table and used a 13-3 run to pull within one with 6:32 to play, 67-66. Trojans continued their offensive attack and took their first lead of the game just thirty seconds later, 68-67.Trailing for the first time in the game, the Knights matched the Trojans basket for basket before regaining the lead as Dennis completed the old fashioned three play, 74-72. The Trojans reversed the momentum down the stretch and closed the game on a 13-1 run, to defeat the Knights on Saturday afternoon.German Plotnikov led the Knights in scoring totaling 30 points on 10-of-17 shooting. Caleb Horne was the top rebounder for North Platte collecting ten rebounds in twenty-four minutes off the bench.Knights (6-12) will round out their 2021 regular season schedule on Tuesday, March 30 against Western Nebraska Community College. Tip is set for 7:00 p.m. in Scottsbluff, Neb.

Trinidad State comes from behind to defeat Knights

ANN ARBOR, Mich. - The No. 5 Nebraska volleyball team recovered from a slow start to take control in a 3-1 (19-25, 25-16, 25-15, 25-20) victory over Michigan at Cliff Keen Arena on Thursday night. 

The Huskers hit .232 and had 11 blocks and 10 aces to boost their season record to 13-2. Michigan hit .154 and fell to 4-6 on the season. 

Lexi Sun had 13 kills, six digs and three blocks, and Lauren Stivrins had 10 kills and five blocks while hitting .368. Madi Kubik also tallied 10 kills to go with 12 digs. Kayla Caffey and Jazz Sweet both had seven kills and six blocks, which tied a career high for Sweet. Caffey hit .385 in the match. 

Nicklin Hames had a season-best five kills with her 34 assists and 16 digs. Keonilei Akana had 12 digs and a career-high five aces to lead the Huskers from behind the service line. After no aces with two errors in the first set, the Huskers had 10 aces and just three errors over the final three sets. 

The Huskers had a 68-51 advantage in digs. Kenzie Knuckles had 10 digs, and Hayley Densberger posted eight digs to go with two aces, both season highs. 

Jess Mruzik had 20 kills to lead the Wolverines.

Set 1: Michigan jumped out to a 4-0 lead and never looked back. The Wolverines eventually stretched the lead to as many as 12 points at 19-7. The Huskers put together a 6-1 run to cut it to 20-13, but the Wolverines had enough cushion to finish off a 25-19 win. Michigan hit .226 while NU hit .111. 

Set 2: Akana served a pair of aces, and Kubik and Hames tallied three kills between them to put NU ahead 5-0 to start the set. Michigan pulled within 7-4 but the Huskers got hot with a kill by Caffey and back-to-back blocks by Caffey and Sun. Hames served an ace before another Caffey block, this one with Sweet, and the Huskers built a 15-4 lead after the 8-0 run. NU went up 18-5 after a kill by Sun and a block by Caffey and Sweet. The Wolverines clawed back to within seven at 23-16, but a kill by Caffey and ace by Sun gave the Huskers a 25-16 win and evened the match. NU hit .290 and held Michigan to .098, and the Huskers had four aces with no errors in set two and only two attacking errors after nine in the first set. 

Set 3: Akana served back-to-back aces as the Huskers started off with a 3-0 spurt. Michigan went on a 7-2 run to go up 7-5, but a kill by Stivrins, an ace by Densberger and two kills by Sun put NU back on top, 9-7. Hames, Sun and Sweet struck for three kills in a row as the Huskers went up by five, 13-8. Kubik tallied three kills in a row for a 17-10 Big Red lead, and Akana served her fifth ace before a Sun kill made it 20-11. Densberger tacked on another ace, and Kubik closed out the 25-15 win with her fourth kill of the set.

Set 4: Michigan held a 12-10 lead, but the Huskers got a kill from Sun and a block by Caffey and Sun before a Caffey kill put NU up 15-13 at the media timeout. Caffey, Kubik and Sweet recorded a trio of kills for a 19-15 Husker lead, which forced Michigan to take a timeout. Michigan got within 19-17, but Kubik and Stivrins kept NU on top, 22-18, with kills. Another kill by Stivrins made it 23-19, and the Huskers finished off a 25-20 win to end the match. 

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsANN ARBOR, Mich. - The No. 5 Nebraska volleyball team recovered from a slow start to take control in a 3-1 (19-25, 25-16, 25-15, 25-20) victory over Michigan at Cliff Keen Arena on Thursday night. The Huskers hit .232 and had 11 blocks and 10 aces to boost their season record to 13-2. Michigan hit .154 and fell to 4-6 on the season. Lexi Sun had 13 kills, six digs and three blocks, and Lauren Stivrins had 10 kills and five blocks while hitting .368. Madi Kubik also tallied 10 kills to go with 12 digs. Kayla Caffey and Jazz Sweet both had seven kills and six blocks, which tied a career high for Sweet. Caffey hit .385 in the match. Nicklin Hames had a season-best five kills with her 34 assists and 16 digs. Keonilei Akana had 12 digs and a career-high five aces to lead the Huskers from behind the service line. After no aces with two errors in the first set, the Huskers had 10 aces and just three errors over the final three sets. The Huskers had a 68-51 advantage in digs. Kenzie Knuckles had 10 digs, and Hayley Densberger posted eight digs to go with two aces, both season highs. Jess Mruzik had 20 kills to lead the Wolverines.Set 1: Michigan jumped out to a 4-0 lead and never looked back. The Wolverines eventually stretched the lead to as many as 12 points at 19-7. The Huskers put together a 6-1 run to cut it to 20-13, but the Wolverines had enough cushion to finish off a 25-19 win. Michigan hit .226 while NU hit .111. Set 2: Akana served a pair of aces, and Kubik and Hames tallied three kills between them to put NU ahead 5-0 to start the set. Michigan pulled within 7-4 but the Huskers got hot with a kill by Caffey and back-to-back blocks by Caffey and Sun. Hames served an ace before another Caffey block, this one with Sweet, and the Huskers built a 15-4 lead after the 8-0 run. NU went up 18-5 after a kill by Sun and a block by Caffey and Sweet. The Wolverines clawed back to within seven at 23-16, but a kill by Caffey and ace by Sun gave the Huskers a 25-16 win and evened the match. NU hit .290 and held Michigan to .098, and the Huskers had four aces with no errors in set two and only two attacking errors after nine in the first set. Set 3: Akana served back-to-back aces as the Huskers started off with a 3-0 spurt. Michigan went on a 7-2 run to go up 7-5, but a kill by Stivrins, an ace by Densberger and two kills by Sun put NU back on top, 9-7. Hames, Sun and Sweet struck for three kills in a row as the Huskers went up by five, 13-8. Kubik tallied three kills in a row for a 17-10 Big Red lead, and Akana served her fifth ace before a Sun kill made it 20-11. Densberger tacked on another ace, and Kubik closed out the 25-15 win with her fourth kill of the set.Set 4: Michigan held a 12-10 lead, but the Huskers got a kill from Sun and a block by Caffey and Sun before a Caffey kill put NU up 15-13 at the media timeout. Caffey, Kubik and Sweet recorded a trio of kills for a 19-15 Husker lead, which forced Michigan to take a timeout. Michigan got within 19-17, but Kubik and Stivrins kept NU on top, 22-18, with kills. Another kill by Stivrins made it 23-19, and the Huskers finished off a 25-20 win to end the match.

Huskers Rally to Defeat Michigan, 3-1

Story by Heather Johnson&nbsp;Area Public Information Specialist

The North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team had trouble keeping up with Northeastern Junior College in a doubleheader Thursday in Sterling, Colo. The Knights fell 7-1 in the first game.

Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., started things off in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. The righthander went six innings, allowing seven runs on six hits and striking out 12.

Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., went 2-for-4 at the plate to lead the Knights in hits.

The Knights watched the second game slip away early, unable to recover in a 10-1 loss. They struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing NJC, giving up 10 runs.

Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, toed the rubber for the Knights. The righthander allowed 10 hits and 10 runs over four innings, striking out six.

The Knights hit one home run on the day. Kirsten Greenwalt, of Aurora, Colo., went yard in the fifth inning.

Greenwalt, Wheeling and Jordan Young, of Johnstown, Colo., each managed one hit to lead the Knights.

“Game one, Nevaeh pitched a great game - we just got caught on our heels in the fourth and lost the energy,” said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins. “Game two, we got down early and couldn’t string hits together.”

“We are playing one of our toughest schedules, and we are right there if we can clean up our defense a little more and gain our confidence back,” Higgins said. “It’s hard playing your first 22 games on the road. This team is young but fun, and I know we will start turning the corner when we get to play at home and not travel.”

The Knights will have that opportunity this weekend. Their home games originally scheduled for Saturday and Sunday against Lamar Community College have been postponed to April 27.

The Knights will instead face Western Nebraska Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.

Story by Heather Johnson&nbsp;Area Public Information SpecialistThe North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team had trouble keeping up with Northeastern Junior College in a doubleheader Thursday in Sterling, Colo. The Knights fell 7-1 in the first game.Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., started things off in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. The righthander went six innings, allowing seven runs on six hits and striking out 12.Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., went 2-for-4 at the plate to lead the Knights in hits.The Knights watched the second game slip away early, unable to recover in a 10-1 loss. They struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing NJC, giving up 10 runs.Kyleigh Sullivan, of Fort Worth, Texas, toed the rubber for the Knights. The righthander allowed 10 hits and 10 runs over four innings, striking out six.The Knights hit one home run on the day. Kirsten Greenwalt, of Aurora, Colo., went yard in the fifth inning.Greenwalt, Wheeling and Jordan Young, of Johnstown, Colo., each managed one hit to lead the Knights.“Game one, Nevaeh pitched a great game - we just got caught on our heels in the fourth and lost the energy,” said NPCC Knights Softball head coach Janelle Higgins. “Game two, we got down early and couldn’t string hits together.”The Knights are now 4-18 on the season.“We are playing one of our toughest schedules, and we are right there if we can clean up our defense a little more and gain our confidence back,” Higgins said. “It’s hard playing your first 22 games on the road. This team is young but fun, and I know we will start turning the corner when we get to play at home and not travel.”The Knights will have that opportunity this weekend. Their home games originally scheduled for Saturday and Sunday against Lamar Community College have been postponed to April 27.The Knights will instead face Western Nebraska Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.

NPCC Softball drops pair to NJC

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

The Big Ten Conference announced Wednesday that it will allow fans to return to regular-season conference sporting events beginning immediately. The decision to follow local health guidelines and restrictions was made jointly by Big Ten Conference Athletic Directors and the Council of Presidents and Chancellors in consultation with university medical experts and the conference office. "I applaud the decision to allow fans to return to conference venues for the remainder of the 2020-21 athletic season," Nebraska Athletic Director&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/staff.aspx?staff=521">Bill Moos</a>&nbsp;said. "This is another positive step as we move closer to normal operations in the Big Ten and across college athletics. Our staff has worked closely with local health officials to finalize details and provide a safe environment in our facilities. I know Nebraska fans are eager to get back to cheering on their Huskers in person, and we look forward to welcoming them back." The decision applies to all remaining events in Nebraska's home athletic venues, beginning with Friday's baseball and softball games. Tickets will be available for baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball and the Huskers' May 1 spring game. The Big Ten announced earlier this month that it would allow public ticket sales at conference championship events, including the Big Ten Men's Gymnastics and Big Ten Men's Tennis championships that will be held in Lincoln in April. Preliminary information for upcoming Husker athletic contests includes the following:

More details on venue capacities, ticket allocation, seating plans and health and safety measures will be announced soon. All plans are subject to change based on adjustments to Lincoln/Lancaster County directed health measures.



Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

The Big Ten Conference announced Wednesday that it will allow fans to return to regular-season conference sporting events beginning immediately. The decision to follow local health guidelines and restrictions was made jointly by Big Ten Conference Athletic Directors and the Council of Presidents and Chancellors in consultation with university medical experts and the conference office. "I applaud the decision to allow fans to return to conference venues for the remainder of the 2020-21 athletic season," Nebraska Athletic Director&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/staff.aspx?staff=521">Bill Moos</a>&nbsp;said. "This is another positive step as we move closer to normal operations in the Big Ten and across college athletics. Our staff has worked closely with local health officials to finalize details and provide a safe environment in our facilities. I know Nebraska fans are eager to get back to cheering on their Huskers in person, and we look forward to welcoming them back." The decision applies to all remaining events in Nebraska's home athletic venues, beginning with Friday's baseball and softball games. Tickets will be available for baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball and the Huskers' May 1 spring game. The Big Ten announced earlier this month that it would allow public ticket sales at conference championship events, including the Big Ten Men's Gymnastics and Big Ten Men's Tennis championships that will be held in Lincoln in April. Preliminary information for upcoming Husker athletic contests includes the following:<ul>
 <li>Season ticket holders for the most recent ticketed season will receive the first opportunity to purchase tickets (i.e., 2019 volleyball, soccer; 2020 baseball and softball) and will receive direct email communication for their respective sports today.</li><li>All ticket sales will be on a single game basis, and all tickets will be mobile.</li><li>Fans will be required to wear face coverings in all Nebraska athletic venues.</li>
 </ul>More details on venue capacities, ticket allocation, seating plans and health and safety measures will be announced soon. All plans are subject to change based on adjustments to Lincoln/Lancaster County directed health measures.

Huskers Set to Welcome Back Fans

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3.24.2021 - NPHS Soccer vs Kearney LIVESTREAM!

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information. Photo by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public Information

North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team had their four-game winning streak snapped against McCook Community College on Tuesday night. The Indians used a strong third quarter to overpower the Knights, 63-42.

In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the opening 3:44, after Diamond Moore-Heath connected on the front end of a pair of free throws. The Indians came charging back to take their first lead of the game on a three pointer with 4:10 to play in the quarter.

The Knights rebounded and regained the lead with 2:19 to play, as Kayla Pope earned her way to the free throw line and made both her free throw attempts. Trailing 9-7, the Indians knotted the game up and regained the lead by connecting on one of two free throw opportunities in the closing seconds to lead after one quarter, 10-9.

In the second quarter, the Knights briefly retook the lead on a Moore-Heath layup before the Indians recaptured the lead just 22 seconds later, on a deep three. The Knights held the Indians scoreless for the next seven minutes and went on an 8-0 run to push the deficit to six, 19-13. McCook rallied over the final two minutes of the quarter and cut the deficit to one at the break, 19-18.

The Indians responded in the third quarter outscoring the Knights 21-8. The Indians retook the lead just forty-two seconds into the third quarter, before Moore-Heath put the Knights back on top with a floater in the paint, 21-20.

The Indians retook the lead on their next possession and went on a 12-5 run over the next six minutes to stretch their lead to six with 2:32 to play. The Indians stifled the Knights offense over the remaining minutes of the quarter and pushed their lead to twelve by the end of the third quarter, 39-27.

In the fourth quarter, the Indians pushed their lead to nineteen by the media timeout. Pope halted the Indians fourth quarter momentum by stealing the ball and getting a contested layup to fall, cutting the deficit to seventeen with 4:22 to play.

A quick 6-0 run by the Indians extended their lead out to twenty-three with 2:45 to play. Jordyn Moon answered the run by receiving the inbound and getting her shot to fall in the paint to cut the deficit to twenty-one, 58-37. The Knights were held to one more field goal in the closing minutes and fell to the Indians, 63-42.

Moore-Heath led the Knights with 13 points to go along with her seven rebounds.

North Platte (7-10, 6-6 Region IX) will host Otero Junior College for their regular season finale on Friday, March 26. The Knights and Rattlers are scheduled for a 5:00 p.m. tip inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium. Knights will also honor their sophomore student athletes prior to the start of the game against the Rattlers.

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information. Photo by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public InformationNorth Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College women’s basketball team had their four-game winning streak snapped against McCook Community College on Tuesday night. The Indians used a strong third quarter to overpower the Knights, 63-42.In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the opening 3:44, after Diamond Moore-Heath connected on the front end of a pair of free throws. The Indians came charging back to take their first lead of the game on a three pointer with 4:10 to play in the quarter.The Knights rebounded and regained the lead with 2:19 to play, as Kayla Pope earned her way to the free throw line and made both her free throw attempts. Trailing 9-7, the Indians knotted the game up and regained the lead by connecting on one of two free throw opportunities in the closing seconds to lead after one quarter, 10-9.In the second quarter, the Knights briefly retook the lead on a Moore-Heath layup before the Indians recaptured the lead just 22 seconds later, on a deep three. The Knights held the Indians scoreless for the next seven minutes and went on an 8-0 run to push the deficit to six, 19-13. McCook rallied over the final two minutes of the quarter and cut the deficit to one at the break, 19-18.The Indians responded in the third quarter outscoring the Knights 21-8. The Indians retook the lead just forty-two seconds into the third quarter, before Moore-Heath put the Knights back on top with a floater in the paint, 21-20.The Indians retook the lead on their next possession and went on a 12-5 run over the next six minutes to stretch their lead to six with 2:32 to play. The Indians stifled the Knights offense over the remaining minutes of the quarter and pushed their lead to twelve by the end of the third quarter, 39-27.In the fourth quarter, the Indians pushed their lead to nineteen by the media timeout. Pope halted the Indians fourth quarter momentum by stealing the ball and getting a contested layup to fall, cutting the deficit to seventeen with 4:22 to play.A quick 6-0 run by the Indians extended their lead out to twenty-three with 2:45 to play. Jordyn Moon answered the run by receiving the inbound and getting her shot to fall in the paint to cut the deficit to twenty-one, 58-37. The Knights were held to one more field goal in the closing minutes and fell to the Indians, 63-42.Moore-Heath led the Knights with 13 points to go along with her seven rebounds.North Platte (7-10, 6-6 Region IX) will host Otero Junior College for their regular season finale on Friday, March 26. The Knights and Rattlers are scheduled for a 5:00 p.m. tip inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium. Knights will also honor their sophomore student athletes prior to the start of the game against the Rattlers.

Knights open final week of the season with a loss to Indians

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information. Photo by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public Information Department

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College men’s basketball team defeated McCook Community College on Tuesday night to complete the season sweep of the Indians, 65-62.

Leading 38-36 at the break, the Knights quickly pushed their lead out to nine in the opening minutes of the second half on an offensive putback by Slavomyr Marchenko, 45-36. The Indians erased the deficit and went on a 9-0 run to tie the game up with 15:36 to play in the second half, 45-45.

A quick timeout and a bucket by Jevarrick Butler gave the Knights the lead momentarily, but the Indians answered a North Platte basket with an old fashioned three-point play to retake the lead with 12:08 to play, 48-47. Knights responded over the next 5:36 going on an 9-3 run to push their lead to seven, 57-50.

McCook again responded and went on their own 8-1 run to recapture the lead inside three minutes to play. The Knights used the energy from the crowd to build a three-point advantage as Plotnikov drove the lane and laid it off the glass with 1:23 to play. The Indians trimmed the lead to one, but the Knights remained calm and finished the game at the free throw line going a perfect 4-of-4 inside a minute, to complete the season sweep of Indians.

In the opening half, the Knights jumped out to a 6-2 advantage just 2:18 into the action. McCook responded with a basket to halt the momentum momentarily as the clock moved inside seventeen minutes. The Knights again went on a 5-0 run to extend their lead to seven on a transition three by Butler, 11-4.

The Indians responded limiting the Knights offensive chances and knotted the game up with 10:26 to play in the first half, 20-20. Timur Krupalija answered for the Knights by receiving the ball in transition and completing a three-point play, to give the Knights a three-point lead with 10:18 remaining in the first half. Indians responded with a 7-0 run over the next 2:40 to push their lead to four with 7:38 to play.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Inside three minutes, the Knights regained control of the lead and managed to push their lead to five, 37-32. Indians closed out the half on a 4-1 run but still trailed at the break, 38-36.

Plotnikov led the Knights in scoring totaling 23 points on 7-of-15 from the field. His teammate Marchenko led North Platte on the glass with 10 rebounds to go along with his six points.

The Knights (6-10) will host Otero Junior College on Friday night inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. Rattlers won the first meeting of the season on February 27, 79-75.

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public Information. Photo by&nbsp;Mid-Plains Community College Marketing and Public Information DepartmentNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College men’s basketball team defeated McCook Community College on Tuesday night to complete the season sweep of the Indians, 65-62.Leading 38-36 at the break, the Knights quickly pushed their lead out to nine in the opening minutes of the second half on an offensive putback by Slavomyr Marchenko, 45-36. The Indians erased the deficit and went on a 9-0 run to tie the game up with 15:36 to play in the second half, 45-45.A quick timeout and a bucket by Jevarrick Butler gave the Knights the lead momentarily, but the Indians answered a North Platte basket with an old fashioned three-point play to retake the lead with 12:08 to play, 48-47. Knights responded over the next 5:36 going on an 9-3 run to push their lead to seven, 57-50.McCook again responded and went on their own 8-1 run to recapture the lead inside three minutes to play. The Knights used the energy from the crowd to build a three-point advantage as Plotnikov drove the lane and laid it off the glass with 1:23 to play. The Indians trimmed the lead to one, but the Knights remained calm and finished the game at the free throw line going a perfect 4-of-4 inside a minute, to complete the season sweep of Indians.In the opening half, the Knights jumped out to a 6-2 advantage just 2:18 into the action. McCook responded with a basket to halt the momentum momentarily as the clock moved inside seventeen minutes. The Knights again went on a 5-0 run to extend their lead to seven on a transition three by Butler, 11-4.The Indians responded limiting the Knights offensive chances and knotted the game up with 10:26 to play in the first half, 20-20. Timur Krupalija answered for the Knights by receiving the ball in transition and completing a three-point play, to give the Knights a three-point lead with 10:18 remaining in the first half. Indians responded with a 7-0 run over the next 2:40 to push their lead to four with 7:38 to play.&nbsp;&nbsp;Inside three minutes, the Knights regained control of the lead and managed to push their lead to five, 37-32. Indians closed out the half on a 4-1 run but still trailed at the break, 38-36.Plotnikov led the Knights in scoring totaling 23 points on 7-of-15 from the field. His teammate Marchenko led North Platte on the glass with 10 rebounds to go along with his six points.The Knights (6-10) will host Otero Junior College on Friday night inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium at 7:00 p.m. Rattlers won the first meeting of the season on February 27, 79-75.

Knights fend off Indians for sixth victory of the season

Nebraska volleyball senior outside hitter&nbsp;Lexi Sun&nbsp;has been named Big Ten Player of the Week for the second time this season, the Big Ten Conference announced on Monday.&nbsp; Sun posted 4.33 kills per set with a .408 hitting percentage in two sweeps over Iowa last week. The Encinitas, California native also averaged 3.00 digs per set and tallied four blocks and two aces. She tallied 12 kills on .526 hitting against Iowa on Saturday, and she had a double-double of 14 kills and 12 digs last Wednesday at Iowa City, hitting .333. Sun earned her second Big Ten Player of the Week honor in the last three weeks. For the season, she leads the Huskers in kills at 3.98 per set and aces (16).&nbsp; &nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska volleyball senior outside hitter&nbsp;Lexi Sun&nbsp;has been named Big Ten Player of the Week for the second time this season, the Big Ten Conference announced on Monday.&nbsp; Sun posted 4.33 kills per set with a .408 hitting percentage in two sweeps over Iowa last week. The Encinitas, California native also averaged 3.00 digs per set and tallied four blocks and two aces. She tallied 12 kills on .526 hitting against Iowa on Saturday, and she had a double-double of 14 kills and 12 digs last Wednesday at Iowa City, hitting .333. Sun earned her second Big Ten Player of the Week honor in the last three weeks. For the season, she leads the Huskers in kills at 3.98 per set and aces (16).&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sun Earns B1G Player of the Week Again

After talking with the NWS and them confirming a forecast of temperatures in the low 40’s, high chance of precipitation, and winds blowing 20-35 MPH the Varsity Girls and Boys Soccer game has been POSTPONED to tomorrow, Wednesday (3.24.21), with game times remaining at 5:45 and 7:30 PM. 

Please know that NPHS activities did not desire to have to move the game to a traditional “church night”, but after looking at North Platte’s and Kearney’s schedule over the next two weeks, a Wednesday looked like the only available date during that time frame. NPHS will never actively work to schedule activities on Wednesday evenings, but in this case it was the best options. 

Thank you for your understanding and patience with this change. 

After talking with the NWS and them confirming a forecast of temperatures in the low 40’s, high chance of precipitation, and winds blowing 20-35 MPH the Varsity Girls and Boys Soccer game has been POSTPONED to tomorrow, Wednesday (3.24.21), with game times remaining at 5:45 and 7:30 PM. Please know that NPHS activities did not desire to have to move the game to a traditional “church night”, but after looking at North Platte’s and Kearney’s schedule over the next two weeks, a Wednesday looked like the only available date during that time frame. NPHS will never actively work to schedule activities on Wednesday evenings, but in this case it was the best options. Thank you for your understanding and patience with this change.

NPHS Soccer: Games vs Kearney postponed a day

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. 

With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. 

Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616445851151.png" alt="Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo" />
 <figcaption>Baylor on the cover of a Los Angeles Lakers program on March 21, 1969 which was dubbed "Elgin Baylor Night." Public domain photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Elgin Baylor, the Lakers' 11-time NBA All-Star, has died. The Lakers said Monday that Baylor died of natural causes in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter by his side. With a silky-smooth jumper and fluid athleticism, Baylor played a major role in revolutionizing basketball from a ground-bound sport into an aerial show. He was the first NBA player to surpass 70 points in a game. Lakers great Jerry West called him "one of the most spectacular shooters the world has ever seen." Baylor's second career as a personnel executive with the Los Angeles Clippers was much less successful. Elgin Baylor was 86 years old.

Lakers Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor dies at 86

On the final day of the 2021 NCAA Championships,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41870">Mikey Labriola</a>&nbsp;led the Huskers with a third-place finish in the 174-pound bracket.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41879">Chad Red Jr.</a>&nbsp;(141) followed with a sixth-place finish as they both earned All-American honors and career-high results at the national championship tournament.&nbsp; Labriola&nbsp;met Cal Poly's #12 Bernie Truax in the third-place match to avenge his quarterfinal loss earlier in the tournament. Tied up at two headed into the third period, Labriola landed a takedown and four nearfall points to put the match out of reach for Truax. He finished with the 8-3 decision for the third-place trophy&nbsp;and his highest finish at the tournament after finishing sixth in 2019.&nbsp; In his consolation semifinal match earlier in the session, the Easton, Pa. native took a 5-4 decision over Utah Valley's two-seed Demetrius Romero to secure his spot in the battle for bronze. Down 1-3 at the start of the third period, Labriola scored two takedowns and rode out Romero to secure the win. He finished 6-1 on the week for his second NCAA tournament outing of his career.&nbsp; For the fifth-place match, Red Jr.&nbsp;met a familiar conference foe in Illinois' #14 Dylan Duncan. In the third matchup between the two this season and second in the postseason, Red Jr. fell by 3-0 decision to finish sixth. The senior&nbsp;met NC State's #4 Tariq Wilson in the consolation semifinals, dropping the match by major decision. He went 5-3 in the tournament,&nbsp;finished&nbsp;above his seed, improved on his 2018 seventh-place finish and is now a four-time All-American for Nebraska.&nbsp; The Huskers finished 12th overall with 38.0 points.&nbsp; 2021 NCAA Championships&nbsp; St. Louis, Mo. | Enterprise Center&nbsp; Individual Results 125 pounds: #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(1-2) First Round: #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB) pinned Jake Ferri (KENT), 6:29 Second Round: #4 Drew Hildebrandt (CMU) dec. #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB), 2-1 Cons. Second Round: #14 Jaret Lane (LEH) dec. #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB), 13-12 141 pounds: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(5-3) First Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #25 Drew Mattin&nbsp;(MICH), 8-6 Second Round: #9 Dresden Simon (CMU) dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 6-3 Cons. Second Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #7 Ian Parker (ISU), 12-8 Cons. Third Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #18 Parker Filius (PUR), 11-3 Round of 12: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #6 Allan Hart (MIZZ), 8-7 Cons. Quarterfinals: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #10 Zachary Sherman (UNC), 5-4 TB1 Cons. Semifinals: #4 Tariq Wilson (NCST) major dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 12-1 Fifth-Place Match: #14 Dylan Duncan (ILL) dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 3-0 149 pounds: #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(1-2)&nbsp; First Round: #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #28 Peyton Omania (MSU), 6-4 SV Second Round: #12 Max Murin (IOWA) dec. #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB), 5-3 Cons. Second Round: #27 Josh Finesilver (DUKE) pinned #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB), 2:50 157 pounds: #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(0-2) First Round: #5 Kaleb Young (IOWA) major dec. #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(NEB), 10-2 Cons. First Round: #21 Andrew Cerniglia (NAVY) dec. #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(NEB), 5-3 165 pounds: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #19 Gerrit Nijenhuis (PUR), 4-1 Second Round: #3 Jake Wentzel (PITT) dec. #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB), 8-1 Cons. Second Round: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #20 Cole Moody (WYO), 15-7 Cons. Third Round: #11 Cameron Amine (MICH) dec. #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB), 6-4 174 pounds: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(6-1) First Round: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) def. #29 Lance Runyon (UNI), Medical Forfeit Second Round: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #20 Trenton Munoz (ASU), 5-3 Quarterfinals: #12 Bernie Truax (CP) dec. #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB), 4-2 Round of 12: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #16 Clay Lautt (UNC), 8-4 Cons. Quarterfinals: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #8 Daniel Bullard (NCST), 7-4 Cons. Semifinals: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #2 Demetrius Romero (UVU), 5-4 Third-Place Match: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #12 Bernie Truax (CP), 8-3 184 pounds: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB) tech. fall #25 Matthew Waddell (CHAT), 19-0 (5:15) Second Round: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #9 Jeremiah Kent (MIZZ), 10-4 Quarterfinals: #1 Aaron Brooks (PSU) dec. #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB), 9-4 Round of 12: #11 Dakota Geer (OKST) dec. #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB), 8-2 197 pounds: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #31 Owen Pentz (NDSU) pinned #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB), 4:51 Cons. First Round: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #18 Jacob Koser (NAVY), 4-2 Cons. Second Round: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #16 Jake Jakobsen (LEH), 10-2 Cons. Third Round: #7 Rocky Elam (MIZZ) major dec. #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB), 12-3 285 pounds: #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;(1-2) First Round: #21 Tate Orndorff (OHST) dec. #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;(NEB), 2-1 Cons. First Round: #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;dec. #28 Jon Spaulding (EDIN), 3-2 Cons. Second Round: #11 Zach Elam (MIZZ) dec. #12&nbsp;Christian Lance, 3-1 SV&nbsp; &nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsOn the final day of the 2021 NCAA Championships,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41870">Mikey Labriola</a>&nbsp;led the Huskers with a third-place finish in the 174-pound bracket.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41879">Chad Red Jr.</a>&nbsp;(141) followed with a sixth-place finish as they both earned All-American honors and career-high results at the national championship tournament.&nbsp; Labriola&nbsp;met Cal Poly's #12 Bernie Truax in the third-place match to avenge his quarterfinal loss earlier in the tournament. Tied up at two headed into the third period, Labriola landed a takedown and four nearfall points to put the match out of reach for Truax. He finished with the 8-3 decision for the third-place trophy&nbsp;and his highest finish at the tournament after finishing sixth in 2019.&nbsp; In his consolation semifinal match earlier in the session, the Easton, Pa. native took a 5-4 decision over Utah Valley's two-seed Demetrius Romero to secure his spot in the battle for bronze. Down 1-3 at the start of the third period, Labriola scored two takedowns and rode out Romero to secure the win. He finished 6-1 on the week for his second NCAA tournament outing of his career.&nbsp; For the fifth-place match, Red Jr.&nbsp;met a familiar conference foe in Illinois' #14 Dylan Duncan. In the third matchup between the two this season and second in the postseason, Red Jr. fell by 3-0 decision to finish sixth. The senior&nbsp;met NC State's #4 Tariq Wilson in the consolation semifinals, dropping the match by major decision. He went 5-3 in the tournament,&nbsp;finished&nbsp;above his seed, improved on his 2018 seventh-place finish and is now a four-time All-American for Nebraska.&nbsp; The Huskers finished 12th overall with 38.0 points.&nbsp; 2021 NCAA Championships&nbsp; St. Louis, Mo. | Enterprise Center&nbsp; Individual Results 125 pounds: #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(1-2) First Round: #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB) pinned Jake Ferri (KENT), 6:29 Second Round: #4 Drew Hildebrandt (CMU) dec. #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB), 2-1 Cons. Second Round: #14 Jaret Lane (LEH) dec. #13&nbsp;Liam Cronin&nbsp;(NEB), 13-12 141 pounds: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(5-3) First Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #25 Drew Mattin&nbsp;(MICH), 8-6 Second Round: #9 Dresden Simon (CMU) dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 6-3 Cons. Second Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #7 Ian Parker (ISU), 12-8 Cons. Third Round: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #18 Parker Filius (PUR), 11-3 Round of 12: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #6 Allan Hart (MIZZ), 8-7 Cons. Quarterfinals: #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #10 Zachary Sherman (UNC), 5-4 TB1 Cons. Semifinals: #4 Tariq Wilson (NCST) major dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 12-1 Fifth-Place Match: #14 Dylan Duncan (ILL) dec. #8&nbsp;Chad Red Jr.&nbsp;(NEB), 3-0 149 pounds: #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(1-2)&nbsp; First Round: #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #28 Peyton Omania (MSU), 6-4 SV Second Round: #12 Max Murin (IOWA) dec. #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB), 5-3 Cons. Second Round: #27 Josh Finesilver (DUKE) pinned #5&nbsp;Ridge Lovett&nbsp;(NEB), 2:50 157 pounds: #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(0-2) First Round: #5 Kaleb Young (IOWA) major dec. #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(NEB), 10-2 Cons. First Round: #21 Andrew Cerniglia (NAVY) dec. #28&nbsp;Caleb Licking&nbsp;(NEB), 5-3 165 pounds: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #19 Gerrit Nijenhuis (PUR), 4-1 Second Round: #3 Jake Wentzel (PITT) dec. #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB), 8-1 Cons. Second Round: #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #20 Cole Moody (WYO), 15-7 Cons. Third Round: #11 Cameron Amine (MICH) dec. #14&nbsp;Peyton Robb&nbsp;(NEB), 6-4 174 pounds: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(6-1) First Round: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) def. #29 Lance Runyon (UNI), Medical Forfeit Second Round: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #20 Trenton Munoz (ASU), 5-3 Quarterfinals: #12 Bernie Truax (CP) dec. #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB), 4-2 Round of 12: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #16 Clay Lautt (UNC), 8-4 Cons. Quarterfinals: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #8 Daniel Bullard (NCST), 7-4 Cons. Semifinals: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #2 Demetrius Romero (UVU), 5-4 Third-Place Match: #4&nbsp;Mikey Labriola&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #12 Bernie Truax (CP), 8-3 184 pounds: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB) tech. fall #25 Matthew Waddell (CHAT), 19-0 (5:15) Second Round: #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #9 Jeremiah Kent (MIZZ), 10-4 Quarterfinals: #1 Aaron Brooks (PSU) dec. #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB), 9-4 Round of 12: #11 Dakota Geer (OKST) dec. #8&nbsp;Taylor Venz&nbsp;(NEB), 8-2 197 pounds: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(2-2) First Round: #31 Owen Pentz (NDSU) pinned #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB), 4:51 Cons. First Round: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB) dec. #18 Jacob Koser (NAVY), 4-2 Cons. Second Round: #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB) major dec. #16 Jake Jakobsen (LEH), 10-2 Cons. Third Round: #7 Rocky Elam (MIZZ) major dec. #2&nbsp;Eric Schultz&nbsp;(NEB), 12-3 285 pounds: #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;(1-2) First Round: #21 Tate Orndorff (OHST) dec. #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;(NEB), 2-1 Cons. First Round: #12&nbsp;Christian Lance&nbsp;dec. #28 Jon Spaulding (EDIN), 3-2 Cons. Second Round: #11 Zach Elam (MIZZ) dec. #12&nbsp;Christian Lance, 3-1 SV&nbsp; &nbsp;

Labriola Leads Nebraska With Third Place Finish at NCAA Championships

The final volleyball game of the regular season left fans on the edge of their seats Saturday at North Platte Community College.

Scores were either tied up or separated by just a point for much of the action, which was pushed to five sets. The Knights ultimately lost the game to Otero Junior College.

The final scores were: 25-20, 25-18, 18-25, 22-25 and 9-15.

Peyton Negley, of North Platte, led with 19 kills. Right behind her was Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, with 17 kills.

Avery Johnson, of Hayes Center, put up six blocks while Madi Neely, of Broken Bow contributed five.

Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo. went for 25 digs, and Allie Schneider, of Humphrey, Neb., recorded 50 set assists.

“We played really well the first two sets and then just relaxed coming out into the third and allowed them to have a breath and make their way back in,” said NPCC head volleyball coach Alexa McCall. “We did some nice things but just have to be more consistent. I thought our serve receive was pretty solid for most of the game.”

That puts the Knights at 12-13 on the season and ends their regular season play.

They will host the Region IX Tournament March 27, taking the court at 4 p.m. against the winner of the Central vs. Southeast game. The tournament will be open to spectators. Masks are required.

Story by Heather Johnson&nbsp;Area Public Information SpecialistThe final volleyball game of the regular season left fans on the edge of their seats Saturday at North Platte Community College.Scores were either tied up or separated by just a point for much of the action, which was pushed to five sets. The Knights ultimately lost the game to Otero Junior College.The final scores were: 25-20, 25-18, 18-25, 22-25 and 9-15.Peyton Negley, of North Platte, led with 19 kills. Right behind her was Alysen Daniels, of Mullen, with 17 kills.Avery Johnson, of Hayes Center, put up six blocks while Madi Neely, of Broken Bow contributed five.Ruby Valle, of Weldona, Colo. went for 25 digs, and Allie Schneider, of Humphrey, Neb., recorded 50 set assists.“We played really well the first two sets and then just relaxed coming out into the third and allowed them to have a breath and make their way back in,” said NPCC head volleyball coach Alexa McCall. “We did some nice things but just have to be more consistent. I thought our serve receive was pretty solid for most of the game.”That puts the Knights at 12-13 on the season and ends their regular season play.They will host the Region IX Tournament March 27, taking the court at 4 p.m. against the winner of the Central vs. Southeast game. The tournament will be open to spectators. Masks are required.

Knights finish regular season with loss to Otero

Area Sports: Track and Field results from UNK Invite

Beatrice, Neb. – North Platte Community College women’s basketball team evens the regular season series with Southeast Community College with a victory on Saturday afternoon, 69-62. The win helped the Knights extended their winning streak to four games with just three regular season games remaining on the schedule.

“This was a very good road win today for our program,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “We need to have more focus in order to close out good teams down the stretch.”

In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 9-3 advantage, as Amber Wolever drove the lane and released a floater above the outstretched hand of a Storm defender. The Storm cut the deficit down on their next two offensive possessions to pull within two, 9-7.

The Knights stretched their lead back out to four when Jada Ballard connected on both of her free throw attempts with 5:03 remaining in the first quarter, 11-7. The Storm cut the deficit back to two before Jennessy Aragon-Dennis connected from beyond the arc to push their lead back to five, 17-12.

Knights extended their lead to nine at the 7:06 mark of the second quarter, as Kayla Pope connected on a deep corner three, 22-13. Southeast went on a 7-0 run over the next 1:32 to cut the deficit back to within two, 22-20.

Aragon-Dennis answered for the Knights connecting on a three pointer to push the Knights lead back to five. Over the next 3:23 the Knights extended their lead to eight on a Janay Brauer three, 32-24. Storm made a final run over the closing minutes of the quarter, but the Knights held on to a four-point lead at the half, 34-30.

Out of the break, the Knights went on an 8-0 run over the opening 2:13 to extend their lead to twelve, 42-30. The Storm answered the Knights run over the next 4:30 to cut the deficit back to two, 42-40. Ballard halted the Storm run after she collected an offensive rebound and put it back up to push the Knights lead back to four, 44-40.

The Knights extended their lead back to seven by the end of the third quarter when Ballard drove the paint and was able to lay it off the glass, 50-43.

In the fourth quarter, the Storm cut the deficit down to three in the opening 1:25, 50-47. The Knights responded with a 13-0 run capped off by an Aragon-Dennis pull up jumper with 3:57 to play, 63-47. Inside a minute to play, the Storm trimmed the deficit to seven, but the Knights held on for the 69-62 victory.

The Knights finished the afternoon with four scorers in double digits including Aragon-Dennis (14), Ballard (12), Pope (12), and Brauer (12). Diamond Moore-Heath collected 12 rebounds to lead the Knights on the glass.

Knights (7-9) will close out the regular season with three home games next week. McCook Community College will travel to the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium on Tuesday night for their second matchup of the season. The Indians defeated the Knights back on March 2, 56-37. Tip is set for 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Story by Daniel Stinman&nbsp;Area Director of Marketing and Public InformationBeatrice, Neb. – North Platte Community College women’s basketball team evens the regular season series with Southeast Community College with a victory on Saturday afternoon, 69-62. The win helped the Knights extended their winning streak to four games with just three regular season games remaining on the schedule.“This was a very good road win today for our program,” said head coach Jeff Thurman. “We need to have more focus in order to close out good teams down the stretch.”In the opening quarter, the Knights jumped out to a 9-3 advantage, as Amber Wolever drove the lane and released a floater above the outstretched hand of a Storm defender. The Storm cut the deficit down on their next two offensive possessions to pull within two, 9-7.The Knights stretched their lead back out to four when Jada Ballard connected on both of her free throw attempts with 5:03 remaining in the first quarter, 11-7. The Storm cut the deficit back to two before Jennessy Aragon-Dennis connected from beyond the arc to push their lead back to five, 17-12.Knights extended their lead to nine at the 7:06 mark of the second quarter, as Kayla Pope connected on a deep corner three, 22-13. Southeast went on a 7-0 run over the next 1:32 to cut the deficit back to within two, 22-20.Aragon-Dennis answered for the Knights connecting on a three pointer to push the Knights lead back to five. Over the next 3:23 the Knights extended their lead to eight on a Janay Brauer three, 32-24. Storm made a final run over the closing minutes of the quarter, but the Knights held on to a four-point lead at the half, 34-30.Out of the break, the Knights went on an 8-0 run over the opening 2:13 to extend their lead to twelve, 42-30. The Storm answered the Knights run over the next 4:30 to cut the deficit back to two, 42-40. Ballard halted the Storm run after she collected an offensive rebound and put it back up to push the Knights lead back to four, 44-40.The Knights extended their lead back to seven by the end of the third quarter when Ballard drove the paint and was able to lay it off the glass, 50-43.In the fourth quarter, the Storm cut the deficit down to three in the opening 1:25, 50-47. The Knights responded with a 13-0 run capped off by an Aragon-Dennis pull up jumper with 3:57 to play, 63-47. Inside a minute to play, the Storm trimmed the deficit to seven, but the Knights held on for the 69-62 victory.The Knights finished the afternoon with four scorers in double digits including Aragon-Dennis (14), Ballard (12), Pope (12), and Brauer (12). Diamond Moore-Heath collected 12 rebounds to lead the Knights on the glass.Knights (7-9) will close out the regular season with three home games next week. McCook Community College will travel to the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium on Tuesday night for their second matchup of the season. The Indians defeated the Knights back on March 2, 56-37. Tip is set for 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;