Merriman, Neb. – Nov. 27, 2024 – Nebraska cowboy Garrett Shadbolt has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the PRCA world championship event, to be held in Las Vegas Dec. 5-14.

For the Merriman man, it is his third time to make the Wrangler NFR; he is ranked thirteenth in the world standings, with $137,095 in regular season earnings.

Two of the highlights of this season include winning the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver for the second consecutive year and finishing second at Rodeo Houston.

Last year, a broken leg kept him from the Wrangler NFR; prior to that, he qualified for the Finals in 2021-2022.

Shadbolt, a fifth-generation rancher on the family ranch south of Merriman, grew up ranching, riding, and wrestling, competing in high school wrestling and attending Doane University in Crete on academic and wrestling scholarships. He graduated from Doane in 2019 with a chemistry degree.

This year, he traveled with fellow bareback rider Bradlee Miller, who also qualified for the Wrangler NFR. Traveling with Miller, who is seven years his junior (Shadbolt is 28 years old), reinvigorated Shadbolt when he wasn’t anxious to leave home.

“He’s a younger guy, and it’s good for me to go with somebody who is younger who wants to rodeo hard. It helps a guy keep his motivation to go to the next one.”

Shadbolt competed at about 80 pro rodeos this year, often with his family in tow.

Wife Katie, son George, age four, and daughters Mavis and Lindi, ages three and one, respectively, came along.

“We took the pickup and camper, and went to a lot of national parks this year,” he said. “We went into Canada and the Northwest (U.S.) and saw some pretty amazing country. It was a lot of fun.”

Traveling with three kids under the age of four isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s worth it, he said.

“It’s absolute chaos but the alternative is to never see them, so they came along. But they’re young and they’re flexible, and I think they’ve learned a lot of resiliency. They sure have done a lot more than other kids their ages.”

Being the only Nebraskan to qualify for the Wrangler NFR this year makes it more special, he said. “Honestly, I think I get a lot of fan power because of that. I am representing the state, and I take that pretty seriously. I get a lot of support from Nebraska and it’s pretty special to me.”

Shadbolt is preparing by lifting weights with the Gordon-Rushville High School wrestling team. He is an assistant coach and does the workouts with the student athletes. “I wrestled in college, so I have a decent wealth of experience to help the kids,” he said.

While he’s on the rodeo road, his parents, Quentin and Angela, and sister and her husband, Jordan and Collin Sanders, take care of the ranch work. “Taking my family with me (on the road) had me away from the ranch even more,” he said. “We don’t travel very fast with all the kids, and we spent more time out on the road.”

But his family is his biggest support. “It’s cool to be able to say I’m still part of a ranch operation.”

The Wrangler NFR runs Dec. 5-14 and will be aired nightly at 7:45 pm CST on The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV. World champions are crowned in each event after the final performance on Dec. 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732730179133.jpeg" alt="garrett shadbolt by jackie jensen.JPG" />
 <figcaption>garrett shadbolt by jackie jensen.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth NicolausMerriman, Neb. – Nov. 27, 2024 – Nebraska cowboy Garrett Shadbolt has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the PRCA world championship event, to be held in Las Vegas Dec. 5-14.For the Merriman man, it is his third time to make the Wrangler NFR; he is ranked thirteenth in the world standings, with $137,095 in regular season earnings.Two of the highlights of this season include winning the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver for the second consecutive year and finishing second at Rodeo Houston.Last year, a broken leg kept him from the Wrangler NFR; prior to that, he qualified for the Finals in 2021-2022.Shadbolt, a fifth-generation rancher on the family ranch south of Merriman, grew up ranching, riding, and wrestling, competing in high school wrestling and attending Doane University in Crete on academic and wrestling scholarships. He graduated from Doane in 2019 with a chemistry degree.This year, he traveled with fellow bareback rider Bradlee Miller, who also qualified for the Wrangler NFR. Traveling with Miller, who is seven years his junior (Shadbolt is 28 years old), reinvigorated Shadbolt when he wasn’t anxious to leave home.“He’s a younger guy, and it’s good for me to go with somebody who is younger who wants to rodeo hard. It helps a guy keep his motivation to go to the next one.”Shadbolt competed at about 80 pro rodeos this year, often with his family in tow.Wife Katie, son George, age four, and daughters Mavis and Lindi, ages three and one, respectively, came along.“We took the pickup and camper, and went to a lot of national parks this year,” he said. “We went into Canada and the Northwest (U.S.) and saw some pretty amazing country. It was a lot of fun.”Traveling with three kids under the age of four isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s worth it, he said.“It’s absolute chaos but the alternative is to never see them, so they came along. But they’re young and they’re flexible, and I think they’ve learned a lot of resiliency. They sure have done a lot more than other kids their ages.”Being the only Nebraskan to qualify for the Wrangler NFR this year makes it more special, he said. “Honestly, I think I get a lot of fan power because of that. I am representing the state, and I take that pretty seriously. I get a lot of support from Nebraska and it’s pretty special to me.”Shadbolt is preparing by lifting weights with the Gordon-Rushville High School wrestling team. He is an assistant coach and does the workouts with the student athletes. “I wrestled in college, so I have a decent wealth of experience to help the kids,” he said.While he’s on the rodeo road, his parents, Quentin and Angela, and sister and her husband, Jordan and Collin Sanders, take care of the ranch work. “Taking my family with me (on the road) had me away from the ranch even more,” he said. “We don’t travel very fast with all the kids, and we spent more time out on the road.”But his family is his biggest support. “It’s cool to be able to say I’m still part of a ranch operation.”The Wrangler NFR runs Dec. 5-14 and will be aired nightly at 7:45 pm CST on The Cowboy Channel and RFD-TV. World champions are crowned in each event after the final performance on Dec. 14.

 Nebraska to Send Bareback Rider to Wrangler National Finals Rodeo

Story by NU Athletic Communications

• The No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team finishes the regular season on the road this weekend with a second straight Big Ten championship on the line.&nbsp;

• The Huskers will battle the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions on Friday at 4 p.m. (CT) at Rec Hall in University Park, Pa. That match will be televised on Big Ten Network with Michelle McMahon and Emily Ehman on the call.&nbsp;

• Nebraska sits atop the Big Ten standings with an 18-0 conference record, while Penn State is in second place at 17-1 entering a Wednesday night match at Rutgers. A win at Rutgers would put Penn State at 18-1 heading into its final match of the season against Nebraska. The Huskers could clinch their second straight outright Big Ten title with a win over the Nittany Lions on Friday.&nbsp;

• Nebraska will then head to College Park, Md., for a 6 p.m. (CT) match against the Maryland Terrapins at the XFINITY Center on Saturday, Nov 30th. That match will also air on BTN with Jack Kizer and Audrey Flaugh calling the match.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Nebraska has never played in Maryland’s 17,950-seat XFINITY Center main arena. In fact, this will be Maryland’s first match in the main arena since Oct. 26, 2019. Maryland’s attendance record of 4,522 was set in 2014 when Maryland hosted Penn State.&nbsp;

• Huskers Radio Network with John Baylor and Lauren (Cook) West will broadcast all the action on their volleyball affiliate stations, on Huskers.com and on the Huskers App.&nbsp;

• Nebraska is seeking its 36th all-time conference championship and fifth Big Ten championship. Since joining the Big Ten in 2011, the Huskers have been crowned Big Ten champions in 2011, 2016, 2017 and 2023.&nbsp;

• <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a> is aiming for his 14th conference title in his 25th year as head coach at Nebraska.&nbsp;

• Nebraska has won 25 matches in a row since a 3-0 loss at SMU on Sept. 3. Of those 25 wins, 20 have been sweeps.&nbsp;

• The Huskers won 27 matches in a row last season, which was their longest win streak since winning 28 in a row spanning 2015-16. NU won 29 matches in a row in 2002 and again in 2006-07. <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a>’s longest win streak at Nebraska was 36 matches at the start of his career from 2000-01.&nbsp;

• Nebraska is 7-0&nbsp; against top-10 teams this season, which is the most top-10 wins in a regular season in school history.&nbsp;

• Nebraska is 11-0 against ranked foes this season, as SMU was not in the AVCA Top 25 at the time of that match.&nbsp;

• Since the Sept. 3 loss at SMU, Nebraska has won 27 straight sets on the road.&nbsp;

• The Huskers rank eighth nationally and first in the Big Ten with a team hitting percentage of .295.

• The Huskers rank 12th nationally and first in the Big Ten in opponent hitting percentage at .155. NU led the nation in opponent hitting percentage in 2022 and 2023.&nbsp;

• Nebraska ranks seventh nationally in kills per set (14.39).

• Outside hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> is leading the Huskers with 3.29 kills per set and a team-high 27 service aces and is hitting .257. Murray also adds 2.28 digs per set.&nbsp;

• Opposite hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> is averaging 3.00 kills per set for the Big Red with 1.26 digs per set and 24 aces.&nbsp;

• Middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> is averaging 2.63 kills per set with a .445 hitting percentage, which ranks fourth in the nation.

• Middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> adds 1.79 kills per set on .355 hitting with 1.29 blocks per set. Allick has moved into the top 10 in school history in career blocks with 369.&nbsp;

• Setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> is averaging 11.20 assists per set, which ranks seventh in the nation and leads the Big Ten. She also adds 2.91 digs per set and has 20 aces. Reilly has 14 double-doubles and has been named Big Ten Setter of the Week five times this season, a school record.&nbsp;

• Three-time All-American and two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a> guides the Husker back row with 3.80 digs per set. Rodriguez recently passed Kayla Banwarth for No. 2 all-time in career digs at Nebraska. Rodriguez now has 1,789 and is chasing Justine Wong-Orantes (1,890).&nbsp;&nbsp;

• No. 4 Penn State enters a Wednesday match at Rutgers at 27-2 overall and 17-1 in Big Ten play.&nbsp;

• Under third-year head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley, the Nittany Lions have already won their most matches in a season since going 33-2 in 2017.&nbsp;

• Penn State has won 19 matches in a row at Rec Hall dating back to Nebraska’s 3-2 reverse sweep win last year on Nov. 3.

•&nbsp; Jess Mruzik, a second-team All-American in 2023, leads Penn State with 4.28 kills per set and is hitting .260 with 2.37 digs per set.&nbsp;

• Camryn Hannah adds 3.59 kills per set on .291 hitting.&nbsp;

• Freshman setter Izzy Starck is averaging 11.00 assists per set in guiding Penn State to a .289 hitting percentage.&nbsp;

• Maryland enters a Friday night match at Rutgers with a 13-16 overall record and 4-14 mark in Big Ten action.&nbsp;

• Samantha Schnitta leads the country with 81 service aces this season. She also paces the Terrapins offensively with 3.37 kills per set.&nbsp;

• As a team, Maryland leads the Big Ten and ranks eighth nationally with 2.00 aces per set.&nbsp;

• Nebraska is 28-11 all-time against Penn State and has won the last seven matches. The Huskers are 14-1 against the Nittany Lions since 2015.&nbsp;

• In the last meeting between the teams on Nov. 3, 2023 at Rec Hall, Penn State won the first two sets 25-15 and 25-23, but Nebraska answered 25-18, 25-20, 15-13 to win the match. <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> had a career-high 27 kills and hit .426, and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> had 15 kills and hit .379.&nbsp;

• Nebraska is 19-0 all-time against Maryland. The teams only played once last year with Nebraska winning 3-0 in Lincoln on Oct. 27. The only time the Huskers have played at Maryland in the last four season was Oct. 2, 2022, a 3-1 Husker win.&nbsp;

• Nebraska has allowed just 58 service aces this season, which leads the nation. The next closest team is Pittsburgh with 67 aces allowed.

• Nebraska has seven different players averaging between 1.79 and 3.29 kills per set.

• Six different players have led the Huskers in kills in a match this season.

• Setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> ranks seventh nationally averaging 11.20 assists per set.&nbsp;

• Nebraska’s attack has been one of the best in the nation this season. The Huskers rank eighth in hitting percentage (.295) and seventh in kills per set (14.39).&nbsp;

• Nebraska has won 41 home matches in a row dating back to Dec. 1, 2022, which is the longest active streak in the nation.&nbsp;

• The Huskers’ home win streak is its longest since moving into the Devaney Center in 2013.&nbsp;

• Nebraska’s longest all-time home win streak was 88 matches from 2004-09.&nbsp;

RODRIGUEZ AMONG ALL-TIME GREAT NU LIBEROS

• <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a> is in her final year of a stellar career as the Huskers’ libero. A four-year starter and a three-year team captain, Rodriguez will go down in history as one of the all-time greats in Nebraska volleyball history.&nbsp;

• Rodriguez has 1,789 career digs entering Friday’s match, which ranks No. 2 in school history. U.S. Olympian Justine Wong-Orantes is the career leader in digs at NU with 1,890.&nbsp;

• On Sept. 30, Rodriguez was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week. She averaged 4.71 digs per set in the first weekend of conference play, helping the Huskers hold UCLA and USC to season-low hitting percentages at the time.&nbsp;

• On Nov. 11, Rodriguez earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week for the seventh time in her career, as she averaged 4.17 digs per set to help the Huskers to strong defensive performances in sweeps at No. 12 Oregon and Washington.&nbsp;

• Rodriguez is a three-time AVCA All-American, earning first-team honors in 2021 and 2023, and second-team honors in 2022. She will look to join Kadie Rolfzen (2013-16) and Sarah Pavan (2004-07) as the only four-time All-Americans in program history.&nbsp;

• Rodriguez made her mark instantly as a freshman in 2021, earning AVCA National Freshman of the Year and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Over the last two seasons, Rodriguez has guided the Huskers to the No. 1 defense in the country, earning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year again in 2023 to become the fifth player in Big Ten history to receive the honor twice in a career.&nbsp;

• Opposite hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> is providing 3.00 kills per set this season with 24 aces.&nbsp;

• Beason put together a sensational season in 2023 - her first as a Husker after transferring from Florida - earning AVCA first-team All-America honors and AVCA North Region Player of the Year, becoming just the second Husker (<a href="https://huskers.com/staff/kelly-hunter">Kelly Hunter</a>) to earn that honor.&nbsp;

• In 2023, Beason averaged a team-leading 3.76 kills per set on .282 hitting with 2.05 digs per set. She was named Big Ten Player of the Week four times and was the AVCA National Player of the Week on Oct. 23 after averaging 4.25 kills per set and 1.75 digs per set in wins against Northwestern and top-ranked Wisconsin.&nbsp;

• Beason was the MVP of the NCAA Lincoln Regional after 19 kills, 11 digs and a career-high eight blocks in a regional final win over Arkansas.&nbsp;

VERSATILE MURRAY HIGHLIGHTS SOPHOMORE CLASS

• Sophomore outside hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> is the team leader in kills with 3.29 per set and adds 2.28 digs per set and 27 aces, the most on the team.

• Along with <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/laney-choboy">Laney Choboy</a>, Murray made an instant impact at Nebraska in 2023, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year, AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year, All-Big Ten First Team and AVCA All-America Third Team honors.&nbsp;

• Murray finished her freshman campaign with 3.23 kills per set, the highest kills per set average by a Husker freshman since Kadie Rolfzen (3.46) in 2013. One of the Big Ten’s best six-rotation players, Murray also added 2.07 digs per set with a team-high 36 aces. She was a three-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week.&nbsp;

• Sophomore setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> ranks seventh nationally with 11.20 assists per set this season, and she has 14 double-doubles.

• Reilly was the Big Ten Setter of the Year in 2023, becoming the first freshman to win the award since it originated in 2012. Reilly was also an AVCA second-team All-American and an All-Big Ten first-team selection.&nbsp;

• Reilly led all Big Ten setters with 10.51 assists per set in 2023, and she has received nine career Big Ten Setter of the Week honors, including five this season on Sept. 2, Sept. 16, Oct. 14, Nov. 18 and Nov. 25.&nbsp;

• Reilly was named Best Setter at the season-opening AVCA First Serve Showcase in Louisville, Ky., as she guided the Huskers to a 3-1 win over No. 9 Kentucky with 39 assists and 11 digs.&nbsp;

• Sophomore middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> has elevated her game to new heights in 2024, as she is averaging 2.63 kills per set with a .445 hitting percentage, which ranks fourth in the nation.&nbsp;

• Jackson was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 28 after averaging 1.57 blocks per set in wins against Illinois and Michigan, along with 3.00 kills per set on a .417 hitting percentage.&nbsp;

• Jackson showed enormous athleticism and potential the first time she stepped on the floor as a Husker, and she followed through with a strong debut season that included AVCA All-Region, All-Big Ten Second Team, and Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors.&nbsp;

• Jackson averaged 2.01 kills per set and 1.09 blocks per set with a .399 hitting percentage in 2023, which ranked third in the Big Ten and 19th in the nation. Her hitting percentage was the best ever by a Husker freshman and ranked seventh all-time in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;

• Along with Reilly, Jackson helped the U.S. U21 National Team win the gold medal at the NORCECA U21 Continental Championship in Toronto this summer, hitting .654 throughout the tournament with 39 kills and 10 blocks.&nbsp;

• Junior middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> is putting up 1.29 blocks per set so far this season. Offensively, she has provided 1.79 kills per set on .355 hitting.&nbsp;

• Allick’s career 1.27 blocks per set ranks No. 3 in school history in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;

• Allick has 369 career blocks entering Friday’s match, which ranks 10th in school history.&nbsp;

• In the season-opening victory over Kentucky, Allick had 11 kills and hit .667 while tying her career high with 12 blocks. Her performance earned her Best Middle Blocker and Most Valuable Player honors at the AVCA First Serve Showcase. She averaged 1.90 blocks per set in the first three matches of the season, which earned her Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week.

• Allick was again named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 7 after 2.00 blocks per set in sweeps at Illinois and vs. Iowa.&nbsp;

• Allick is a two-time AVCA All-Region and All-Big Ten second-team selection. Last season, she averaged 1.76 kills per set with a team-high 1.50 blocks per set, which ranked second among Big Ten players and seven in the nation. Her 1.50 blocks per set was also the No. 2 mark in school history in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;

• Allick was at her best at the end of the 2023 season, registering a career-high 12 blocks in the NCAA regional final win over Arkansas and 10 blocks in the NCAA semifinal sweep of Pittsburgh.&nbsp;

• Front row depth is one of the strengths for the 2024 Nebraska volleyball team.

• While middle blockers <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> have started most of the matches at that position, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/leyla-blackwell">Leyla Blackwell</a>, a transfer from San Diego, has played in 12 matches and made four starts and is putting up 2.45 kills per set on a .444 hitting percentage with 1.35 blocks per set.&nbsp;

• Blackwell had nine kills and seven blocks and hit .600 earning the start on Oct. 12 vs. Rutgers. She also had seven kills and three blocks and hit .429 while stepping in for a sidelined <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> at Illinois on Oct. 3.&nbsp;

• On the pin, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a> has started 17 matches and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lindsay-krause">Lindsay Krause</a> has started 12 matches.

• Landfair, a senior transfer from Minnesota, is averaging 2.58 kills per set and had 13 kills in the 3-0 win at Wisconsin on Nov. 1, which tied her season high. She also had 13 kills against UCLA on Sept. 27 and at Oregon on Nov. 7.&nbsp;

• In her senior season, Krause is averaging 2.40 kills per set and has 15 service aces.&nbsp;

• Krause was instrumental in Nebraska’s 3-2 win over No. 9 Creighton on Sept. 10 with a team-high 17 kills, five blocks and six digs. She also had 13 kills in a win over Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Aug. 30 and nine kills in a sweep of Stanford on Sept. 18.&nbsp;

HALL OF FAME COACH COOK IN YEAR 25 AT NU&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Nebraska head coach <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a> is in his 25th season as the Nebraska volleyball head coach in 2024. He has led the Huskers to four national championships, 11 final fours, 13 conference championships and 22 top-10 final rankings since 2000.&nbsp;

• Cook has 878 career wins and is one of the all-time winningest coaches in NCAA history. Since taking over the program in 2000, Cook has led the Huskers to a nation-leading .877 win percentage (717-101).&nbsp;

• On Sept. 10, 2024, the Huskers defeated No. 9 Creighton 3-2 for Cook’s 695th win at Nebraska, which moved him past Terry Pettit for most wins all-time as the Nebraska volleyball head coach.&nbsp;

• Under Cook, the Huskers have achieved 68 AVCA All-Americans and 20 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans, both among the best in the nation. He is a three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year, earning the prestigious honor in 2000, 2005 and 2023, and an eight-time conference coach of the year, including Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2016, 2017 and 2023.

• In 2023, Cook was voted AVCA National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year after leading a young Nebraska team with no seniors to its first Big Ten title since 2017. The Huskers finished the regular season 28-1 overall, their best regular season record since going 28-1 in 2005. After going 26-6 last year and missing the NCAA regional finals for the first time since 2011, the Huskers started over with a starting lineup featuring four true freshmen and a junior transfer (Beason). Cook’s Huskers won their first 27 matches of the season and held the No. 1 ranking from Oct. 23 through the end of the regular season. Despite having no seniors on the roster for just the second time in Cook’s time at Nebraska - as well as starting a true freshman at setter for only the second time in Cook’s tenure - the Huskers earned the overall No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016 and the sixth time overall under Cook.

• Cook was inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame in 2017, joining former Husker volleyball coach Terry Pettit in the hall.

Story by NU Athletic Communications• The No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team finishes the regular season on the road this weekend with a second straight Big Ten championship on the line.&nbsp;• The Huskers will battle the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions on Friday at 4 p.m. (CT) at Rec Hall in University Park, Pa. That match will be televised on Big Ten Network with Michelle McMahon and Emily Ehman on the call.&nbsp;• Nebraska sits atop the Big Ten standings with an 18-0 conference record, while Penn State is in second place at 17-1 entering a Wednesday night match at Rutgers. A win at Rutgers would put Penn State at 18-1 heading into its final match of the season against Nebraska. The Huskers could clinch their second straight outright Big Ten title with a win over the Nittany Lions on Friday.&nbsp;• Nebraska will then head to College Park, Md., for a 6 p.m. (CT) match against the Maryland Terrapins at the XFINITY Center on Saturday, Nov 30th. That match will also air on BTN with Jack Kizer and Audrey Flaugh calling the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska has never played in Maryland’s 17,950-seat XFINITY Center main arena. In fact, this will be Maryland’s first match in the main arena since Oct. 26, 2019. Maryland’s attendance record of 4,522 was set in 2014 when Maryland hosted Penn State.&nbsp;• Huskers Radio Network with John Baylor and Lauren (Cook) West will broadcast all the action on their volleyball affiliate stations, on Huskers.com and on the Huskers App.&nbsp;ABOUT THE HUSKERS• Nebraska is seeking its 36th all-time conference championship and fifth Big Ten championship. Since joining the Big Ten in 2011, the Huskers have been crowned Big Ten champions in 2011, 2016, 2017 and 2023.&nbsp;• <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a> is aiming for his 14th conference title in his 25th year as head coach at Nebraska.&nbsp;• Nebraska has won 25 matches in a row since a 3-0 loss at SMU on Sept. 3. Of those 25 wins, 20 have been sweeps.&nbsp;• The Huskers won 27 matches in a row last season, which was their longest win streak since winning 28 in a row spanning 2015-16. NU won 29 matches in a row in 2002 and again in 2006-07. <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a>’s longest win streak at Nebraska was 36 matches at the start of his career from 2000-01.&nbsp;• Nebraska is 7-0&nbsp; against top-10 teams this season, which is the most top-10 wins in a regular season in school history.&nbsp;• Nebraska is 11-0 against ranked foes this season, as SMU was not in the AVCA Top 25 at the time of that match.&nbsp;• Since the Sept. 3 loss at SMU, Nebraska has won 27 straight sets on the road.&nbsp;• The Huskers rank eighth nationally and first in the Big Ten with a team hitting percentage of .295.• The Huskers rank 12th nationally and first in the Big Ten in opponent hitting percentage at .155. NU led the nation in opponent hitting percentage in 2022 and 2023.&nbsp;• Nebraska ranks seventh nationally in kills per set (14.39).• Outside hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> is leading the Huskers with 3.29 kills per set and a team-high 27 service aces and is hitting .257. Murray also adds 2.28 digs per set.&nbsp;• Opposite hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> is averaging 3.00 kills per set for the Big Red with 1.26 digs per set and 24 aces.&nbsp;• Middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> is averaging 2.63 kills per set with a .445 hitting percentage, which ranks fourth in the nation.• Middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> adds 1.79 kills per set on .355 hitting with 1.29 blocks per set. Allick has moved into the top 10 in school history in career blocks with 369.&nbsp;• Setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> is averaging 11.20 assists per set, which ranks seventh in the nation and leads the Big Ten. She also adds 2.91 digs per set and has 20 aces. Reilly has 14 double-doubles and has been named Big Ten Setter of the Week five times this season, a school record.&nbsp;• Three-time All-American and two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a> guides the Husker back row with 3.80 digs per set. Rodriguez recently passed Kayla Banwarth for No. 2 all-time in career digs at Nebraska. Rodriguez now has 1,789 and is chasing Justine Wong-Orantes (1,890).&nbsp;&nbsp;SCOUTING REPORT: PENN STATE• No. 4 Penn State enters a Wednesday match at Rutgers at 27-2 overall and 17-1 in Big Ten play.&nbsp;• Under third-year head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley, the Nittany Lions have already won their most matches in a season since going 33-2 in 2017.&nbsp;• Penn State has won 19 matches in a row at Rec Hall dating back to Nebraska’s 3-2 reverse sweep win last year on Nov. 3.•&nbsp; Jess Mruzik, a second-team All-American in 2023, leads Penn State with 4.28 kills per set and is hitting .260 with 2.37 digs per set.&nbsp;• Camryn Hannah adds 3.59 kills per set on .291 hitting.&nbsp;• Freshman setter Izzy Starck is averaging 11.00 assists per set in guiding Penn State to a .289 hitting percentage.&nbsp;SCOUTING REPORT: MARYLAND• Maryland enters a Friday night match at Rutgers with a 13-16 overall record and 4-14 mark in Big Ten action.&nbsp;• Samantha Schnitta leads the country with 81 service aces this season. She also paces the Terrapins offensively with 3.37 kills per set.&nbsp;• As a team, Maryland leads the Big Ten and ranks eighth nationally with 2.00 aces per set.&nbsp;SERIES HISTORY• Nebraska is 28-11 all-time against Penn State and has won the last seven matches. The Huskers are 14-1 against the Nittany Lions since 2015.&nbsp;• In the last meeting between the teams on Nov. 3, 2023 at Rec Hall, Penn State won the first two sets 25-15 and 25-23, but Nebraska answered 25-18, 25-20, 15-13 to win the match. <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> had a career-high 27 kills and hit .426, and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> had 15 kills and hit .379.&nbsp;• Nebraska is 19-0 all-time against Maryland. The teams only played once last year with Nebraska winning 3-0 in Lincoln on Oct. 27. The only time the Huskers have played at Maryland in the last four season was Oct. 2, 2022, a 3-1 Husker win.&nbsp;SERVE AND PASS• Nebraska has allowed just 58 service aces this season, which leads the nation. The next closest team is Pittsburgh with 67 aces allowed.BALANCED ATTACK• Nebraska has seven different players averaging between 1.79 and 3.29 kills per set.• Six different players have led the Huskers in kills in a match this season.• Setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> ranks seventh nationally averaging 11.20 assists per set.&nbsp;• Nebraska’s attack has been one of the best in the nation this season. The Huskers rank eighth in hitting percentage (.295) and seventh in kills per set (14.39).&nbsp;HOME SWEET HOME• Nebraska has won 41 home matches in a row dating back to Dec. 1, 2022, which is the longest active streak in the nation.&nbsp;• The Huskers’ home win streak is its longest since moving into the Devaney Center in 2013.&nbsp;• Nebraska’s longest all-time home win streak was 88 matches from 2004-09.&nbsp;RODRIGUEZ AMONG ALL-TIME GREAT NU LIBEROS• <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a> is in her final year of a stellar career as the Huskers’ libero. A four-year starter and a three-year team captain, Rodriguez will go down in history as one of the all-time greats in Nebraska volleyball history.&nbsp;• Rodriguez has 1,789 career digs entering Friday’s match, which ranks No. 2 in school history. U.S. Olympian Justine Wong-Orantes is the career leader in digs at NU with 1,890.&nbsp;• On Sept. 30, Rodriguez was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week. She averaged 4.71 digs per set in the first weekend of conference play, helping the Huskers hold UCLA and USC to season-low hitting percentages at the time.&nbsp;• On Nov. 11, Rodriguez earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week for the seventh time in her career, as she averaged 4.17 digs per set to help the Huskers to strong defensive performances in sweeps at No. 12 Oregon and Washington.&nbsp;• Rodriguez is a three-time AVCA All-American, earning first-team honors in 2021 and 2023, and second-team honors in 2022. She will look to join Kadie Rolfzen (2013-16) and Sarah Pavan (2004-07) as the only four-time All-Americans in program history.&nbsp;• Rodriguez made her mark instantly as a freshman in 2021, earning AVCA National Freshman of the Year and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Over the last two seasons, Rodriguez has guided the Huskers to the No. 1 defense in the country, earning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year again in 2023 to become the fifth player in Big Ten history to receive the honor twice in a career.&nbsp;BEASON BACK TO LEAD HUSKER ATTACK AGAIN• Opposite hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a> is providing 3.00 kills per set this season with 24 aces.&nbsp;• Beason put together a sensational season in 2023 - her first as a Husker after transferring from Florida - earning AVCA first-team All-America honors and AVCA North Region Player of the Year, becoming just the second Husker (<a href="https://huskers.com/staff/kelly-hunter">Kelly Hunter</a>) to earn that honor.&nbsp;• In 2023, Beason averaged a team-leading 3.76 kills per set on .282 hitting with 2.05 digs per set. She was named Big Ten Player of the Week four times and was the AVCA National Player of the Week on Oct. 23 after averaging 4.25 kills per set and 1.75 digs per set in wins against Northwestern and top-ranked Wisconsin.&nbsp;• Beason was the MVP of the NCAA Lincoln Regional after 19 kills, 11 digs and a career-high eight blocks in a regional final win over Arkansas.&nbsp;VERSATILE MURRAY HIGHLIGHTS SOPHOMORE CLASS• Sophomore outside hitter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a> is the team leader in kills with 3.29 per set and adds 2.28 digs per set and 27 aces, the most on the team.• Along with <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/laney-choboy">Laney Choboy</a>, Murray made an instant impact at Nebraska in 2023, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year, AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year, All-Big Ten First Team and AVCA All-America Third Team honors.&nbsp;• Murray finished her freshman campaign with 3.23 kills per set, the highest kills per set average by a Husker freshman since Kadie Rolfzen (3.46) in 2013. One of the Big Ten’s best six-rotation players, Murray also added 2.07 digs per set with a team-high 36 aces. She was a three-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week.&nbsp;REILLY SETS THE TONE• Sophomore setter <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a> ranks seventh nationally with 11.20 assists per set this season, and she has 14 double-doubles.• Reilly was the Big Ten Setter of the Year in 2023, becoming the first freshman to win the award since it originated in 2012. Reilly was also an AVCA second-team All-American and an All-Big Ten first-team selection.&nbsp;• Reilly led all Big Ten setters with 10.51 assists per set in 2023, and she has received nine career Big Ten Setter of the Week honors, including five this season on Sept. 2, Sept. 16, Oct. 14, Nov. 18 and Nov. 25.&nbsp;• Reilly was named Best Setter at the season-opening AVCA First Serve Showcase in Louisville, Ky., as she guided the Huskers to a 3-1 win over No. 9 Kentucky with 39 assists and 11 digs.&nbsp;JACKSON IN ACTION• Sophomore middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> has elevated her game to new heights in 2024, as she is averaging 2.63 kills per set with a .445 hitting percentage, which ranks fourth in the nation.&nbsp;• Jackson was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 28 after averaging 1.57 blocks per set in wins against Illinois and Michigan, along with 3.00 kills per set on a .417 hitting percentage.&nbsp;• Jackson showed enormous athleticism and potential the first time she stepped on the floor as a Husker, and she followed through with a strong debut season that included AVCA All-Region, All-Big Ten Second Team, and Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors.&nbsp;• Jackson averaged 2.01 kills per set and 1.09 blocks per set with a .399 hitting percentage in 2023, which ranked third in the Big Ten and 19th in the nation. Her hitting percentage was the best ever by a Husker freshman and ranked seventh all-time in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;• Along with Reilly, Jackson helped the U.S. U21 National Team win the gold medal at the NORCECA U21 Continental Championship in Toronto this summer, hitting .654 throughout the tournament with 39 kills and 10 blocks.&nbsp;ALLICK BRINGS THE BLOCK• Junior middle blocker <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> is putting up 1.29 blocks per set so far this season. Offensively, she has provided 1.79 kills per set on .355 hitting.&nbsp;• Allick’s career 1.27 blocks per set ranks No. 3 in school history in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;• Allick has 369 career blocks entering Friday’s match, which ranks 10th in school history.&nbsp;• In the season-opening victory over Kentucky, Allick had 11 kills and hit .667 while tying her career high with 12 blocks. Her performance earned her Best Middle Blocker and Most Valuable Player honors at the AVCA First Serve Showcase. She averaged 1.90 blocks per set in the first three matches of the season, which earned her Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week.• Allick was again named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 7 after 2.00 blocks per set in sweeps at Illinois and vs. Iowa.&nbsp;• Allick is a two-time AVCA All-Region and All-Big Ten second-team selection. Last season, she averaged 1.76 kills per set with a team-high 1.50 blocks per set, which ranked second among Big Ten players and seven in the nation. Her 1.50 blocks per set was also the No. 2 mark in school history in the rally scoring era.&nbsp;• Allick was at her best at the end of the 2023 season, registering a career-high 12 blocks in the NCAA regional final win over Arkansas and 10 blocks in the NCAA semifinal sweep of Pittsburgh.&nbsp;FRONT ROW DEPTH&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Front row depth is one of the strengths for the 2024 Nebraska volleyball team.• While middle blockers <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bekka-allick">Rebekah Allick</a> have started most of the matches at that position, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/leyla-blackwell">Leyla Blackwell</a>, a transfer from San Diego, has played in 12 matches and made four starts and is putting up 2.45 kills per set on a .444 hitting percentage with 1.35 blocks per set.&nbsp;• Blackwell had nine kills and seven blocks and hit .600 earning the start on Oct. 12 vs. Rutgers. She also had seven kills and three blocks and hit .429 while stepping in for a sidelined <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/andi-jackson">Andi Jackson</a> at Illinois on Oct. 3.&nbsp;• On the pin, <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a> has started 17 matches and <a href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lindsay-krause">Lindsay Krause</a> has started 12 matches.• Landfair, a senior transfer from Minnesota, is averaging 2.58 kills per set and had 13 kills in the 3-0 win at Wisconsin on Nov. 1, which tied her season high. She also had 13 kills against UCLA on Sept. 27 and at Oregon on Nov. 7.&nbsp;• In her senior season, Krause is averaging 2.40 kills per set and has 15 service aces.&nbsp;• Krause was instrumental in Nebraska’s 3-2 win over No. 9 Creighton on Sept. 10 with a team-high 17 kills, five blocks and six digs. She also had 13 kills in a win over Texas A&amp;M-Corpus Christi on Aug. 30 and nine kills in a sweep of Stanford on Sept. 18.&nbsp;HALL OF FAME COACH COOK IN YEAR 25 AT NU&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Nebraska head coach <a href="https://huskers.com/staff/john-cook">John Cook</a> is in his 25th season as the Nebraska volleyball head coach in 2024. He has led the Huskers to four national championships, 11 final fours, 13 conference championships and 22 top-10 final rankings since 2000.&nbsp;• Cook has 878 career wins and is one of the all-time winningest coaches in NCAA history. Since taking over the program in 2000, Cook has led the Huskers to a nation-leading .877 win percentage (717-101).&nbsp;• On Sept. 10, 2024, the Huskers defeated No. 9 Creighton 3-2 for Cook’s 695th win at Nebraska, which moved him past Terry Pettit for most wins all-time as the Nebraska volleyball head coach.&nbsp;• Under Cook, the Huskers have achieved 68 AVCA All-Americans and 20 CoSIDA Academic All-Americans, both among the best in the nation. He is a three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year, earning the prestigious honor in 2000, 2005 and 2023, and an eight-time conference coach of the year, including Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2016, 2017 and 2023.• In 2023, Cook was voted AVCA National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year after leading a young Nebraska team with no seniors to its first Big Ten title since 2017. The Huskers finished the regular season 28-1 overall, their best regular season record since going 28-1 in 2005. After going 26-6 last year and missing the NCAA regional finals for the first time since 2011, the Huskers started over with a starting lineup featuring four true freshmen and a junior transfer (Beason). Cook’s Huskers won their first 27 matches of the season and held the No. 1 ranking from Oct. 23 through the end of the regular season. Despite having no seniors on the roster for just the second time in Cook’s time at Nebraska - as well as starting a true freshman at setter for only the second time in Cook’s tenure - the Huskers earned the overall No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2016 and the sixth time overall under Cook.• Cook was inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame in 2017, joining former Husker volleyball coach Terry Pettit in the hall.

Husker Volleyball preview: at #4 Penn State & Maryland 

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Fifth-year senior&nbsp;Chase Thompson&nbsp;scored 23 points and redshirt junior&nbsp;Ja’Bryant Hill&nbsp;added 17 to help Nebraska Kearney roll past York University,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=8037">92-49,</a>&nbsp;Tuesday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.

The Lopers (1-4) pick up their first win of the 2024-25 season while the Panthers remain at 2-5 per NAIA rules. This also marks the first win for first-year head coach&nbsp;Marty Levinson. He won 191 games in at the junior college level.

“It feels great. Gets a little burden off my back but it’s more for the kids. They are the ones doing all the work,” said Levinson. “I’ve been through the ups and downs of basketball, just living the life of it. You don’t get too high; you don’t get too low. You have to trust your work and the kids did that. They deserve it and they needed that.”

UNK, who dropped its first four games by a total of nine points, led by just a 35-25 margin with two minutes left in the half before finishing on a 6-1 run. The Lopers then dominated the second half by a 51-23 margin as they shot 59% from the floor and committed only one turnover.

“We’ve lost four games by nine points, so we probably were a little tight (at the beginning). Coach (Tom) Kropp has the best saying…be free swinging. Allow yourself to read the basketball and make the right basketball play out of it. I felt like we settled in,” said Levinson.

Thompson (Omaha Westside) had 14 of his points in the first half and finished 8 of 15 (3 of 6 threes) from the field and 4 of 6 at the line. He also had six rebounds (three offensive) and two assists. The 23 points is four shy of his D2 career-high, set for Florida Tech against Lynn (Fla.) last winter.

Next, Hill (Duncanville, Texas) was 8 of 12 (1 of 3 threes) from the field and had a team-best six assists with Mullen redshirt freshman&nbsp;Clayton Moore&nbsp;close to a double double (12 rebounds, eight points, five assists, two blocks and two steals). Finaly, North Platte sophomore&nbsp;River Johnston&nbsp;(11 points, two assists), Omaha senior&nbsp;Tre’Vion Crawford&nbsp;(5 points, two rebounds) and Philadelphia senior&nbsp;Chereef Knox&nbsp;(seven rebounds, four points) were all big off the bench.

“We’re so new. If you have returners, and you’ve been around each other, everyone kind of knows what position they slide into,” said Levinson. “We had to do so much of that teaching and there’s nothing like putting yourself into the battle. You learn in the game, and we just hope we’ve learned from those first four.”

Ten of the 11 Lopers who suited up scored as UNK held York to 26% shooting and totaled 24 points off 17 Panthers turnovers. Finally, both teams made 14 free throws with the Lopers plus three on the glass.

York had three starters reach double figures including Ikechukwu Nwaobi (13 points).

UNK is at Chadron State (2-4) on Saturday at 6 p.m. Central

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Fifth-year senior&nbsp;Chase Thompson&nbsp;scored 23 points and redshirt junior&nbsp;Ja’Bryant Hill&nbsp;added 17 to help Nebraska Kearney roll past York University,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=8037">92-49,</a>&nbsp;Tuesday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.The Lopers (1-4) pick up their first win of the 2024-25 season while the Panthers remain at 2-5 per NAIA rules. This also marks the first win for first-year head coach&nbsp;Marty Levinson. He won 191 games in at the junior college level.“It feels great. Gets a little burden off my back but it’s more for the kids. They are the ones doing all the work,” said Levinson. “I’ve been through the ups and downs of basketball, just living the life of it. You don’t get too high; you don’t get too low. You have to trust your work and the kids did that. They deserve it and they needed that.”UNK, who dropped its first four games by a total of nine points, led by just a 35-25 margin with two minutes left in the half before finishing on a 6-1 run. The Lopers then dominated the second half by a 51-23 margin as they shot 59% from the floor and committed only one turnover.“We’ve lost four games by nine points, so we probably were a little tight (at the beginning). Coach (Tom) Kropp has the best saying…be free swinging. Allow yourself to read the basketball and make the right basketball play out of it. I felt like we settled in,” said Levinson.Thompson (Omaha Westside) had 14 of his points in the first half and finished 8 of 15 (3 of 6 threes) from the field and 4 of 6 at the line. He also had six rebounds (three offensive) and two assists. The 23 points is four shy of his D2 career-high, set for Florida Tech against Lynn (Fla.) last winter.Next, Hill (Duncanville, Texas) was 8 of 12 (1 of 3 threes) from the field and had a team-best six assists with Mullen redshirt freshman&nbsp;Clayton Moore&nbsp;close to a double double (12 rebounds, eight points, five assists, two blocks and two steals). Finaly, North Platte sophomore&nbsp;River Johnston&nbsp;(11 points, two assists), Omaha senior&nbsp;Tre’Vion Crawford&nbsp;(5 points, two rebounds) and Philadelphia senior&nbsp;Chereef Knox&nbsp;(seven rebounds, four points) were all big off the bench.“We’re so new. If you have returners, and you’ve been around each other, everyone kind of knows what position they slide into,” said Levinson. “We had to do so much of that teaching and there’s nothing like putting yourself into the battle. You learn in the game, and we just hope we’ve learned from those first four.”Ten of the 11 Lopers who suited up scored as UNK held York to 26% shooting and totaled 24 points off 17 Panthers turnovers. Finally, both teams made 14 free throws with the Lopers plus three on the glass.York had three starters reach double figures including Ikechukwu Nwaobi (13 points).UNK is at Chadron State (2-4) on Saturday at 6 p.m. Central

Big Nights for Bryant, Thompson & the Bench

Lincoln&nbsp;- No. 25 Nebraska used a strong defensive performance and a balanced offense that featured five Huskers in double-figures, as the Big Red rolled to an 84-38 women’s basketball victory over Kansas City at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Tuesday night.

Junior guard Callin Hake connected on a career-high five three-pointers on her way to a game-high 16 points to lead the five Huskers in double figures. Hake added four rebounds, four assists and two steals in an impressive all-around effort that helped Nebraska&nbsp;improve to 6-1 on the season. The Roos slipped to 2-5.

Hake hit a pair of threes in the opening minutes while backcourt mate Britt Prince added six points of her own to help Nebraska jump out to a 12-2 lead and never look back. Prince finished with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Alberte Rimdal added another strong effort for the Big Red backcourt with a season-high 15 points, including 3-of-5 three-point shooting. The senior guard from Koge, Denmark scored eight points during a 13-0 Husker run to open the fourth quarter. She added&nbsp;five rebounds and two steals.

All-America candidate Alexis Markowski contributed her 43rd career double-double and her third of the season with 10 points and a game-high 10 rebounds, while freshman Amiah Hargrove rounded out the Huskers in double figures with career highs of 10 points and seven rebounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All 11 Huskers scored in the game, despite Nebraska shooting a season-low 37.9 percent (25-66). The Big Red did hit 12-of-29 threes (.414), notching their third double-digit effort from long range in the first seven games of the season. Nebraska also hit 22-of-28 free throws (.786).

The Huskers outworked Kansas City on the glass, 49-40, and won the turnover battle, 22-14.

Nebraska held the Roos to just 21.7 percent (13-60) shooting, including just 1-for-14 (.071) from three-point range. Kansas City did connect on 11-of-14 free throws (.786).

Nebraska led 23-12 after one quarter, then pushed the margin to 47-20 at halftime. Both teams struggled in the third, but Nebraska found a way to win the period, 15-14, before closing out the game with a 22-4 edge in the fourth.

Emani Bennett was the only Roo to manage double figures, finishing with team highs of 11 points and seven rebounds, but she finished 5-of-18 from the field with four turnovers. As a team, Kansas City produced just two assists.

Nebraska returns to action next Tuesday to take on Lindenwood at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. (CT) with tickets available now at Huskers.com. The game against the Lions will be streamed live for B1G+ subscribers, while live audio is also available on Huskers.com from the Huskers Radio Network.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsLincoln&nbsp;- No. 25 Nebraska used a strong defensive performance and a balanced offense that featured five Huskers in double-figures, as the Big Red rolled to an 84-38 women’s basketball victory over Kansas City at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Tuesday night.Junior guard Callin Hake connected on a career-high five three-pointers on her way to a game-high 16 points to lead the five Huskers in double figures. Hake added four rebounds, four assists and two steals in an impressive all-around effort that helped Nebraska&nbsp;improve to 6-1 on the season. The Roos slipped to 2-5.Hake hit a pair of threes in the opening minutes while backcourt mate Britt Prince added six points of her own to help Nebraska jump out to a 12-2 lead and never look back. Prince finished with 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals.Alberte Rimdal added another strong effort for the Big Red backcourt with a season-high 15 points, including 3-of-5 three-point shooting. The senior guard from Koge, Denmark scored eight points during a 13-0 Husker run to open the fourth quarter. She added&nbsp;five rebounds and two steals.All-America candidate Alexis Markowski contributed her 43rd career double-double and her third of the season with 10 points and a game-high 10 rebounds, while freshman Amiah Hargrove rounded out the Huskers in double figures with career highs of 10 points and seven rebounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;All 11 Huskers scored in the game, despite Nebraska shooting a season-low 37.9 percent (25-66). The Big Red did hit 12-of-29 threes (.414), notching their third double-digit effort from long range in the first seven games of the season. Nebraska also hit 22-of-28 free throws (.786).The Huskers outworked Kansas City on the glass, 49-40, and won the turnover battle, 22-14.Nebraska held the Roos to just 21.7 percent (13-60) shooting, including just 1-for-14 (.071) from three-point range. Kansas City did connect on 11-of-14 free throws (.786).Nebraska led 23-12 after one quarter, then pushed the margin to 47-20 at halftime. Both teams struggled in the third, but Nebraska found a way to win the period, 15-14, before closing out the game with a 22-4 edge in the fourth.Emani Bennett was the only Roo to manage double figures, finishing with team highs of 11 points and seven rebounds, but she finished 5-of-18 from the field with four turnovers. As a team, Kansas City produced just two assists.Nebraska returns to action next Tuesday to take on Lindenwood at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. (CT) with tickets available now at Huskers.com. The game against the Lions will be streamed live for B1G+ subscribers, while live audio is also available on Huskers.com from the Huskers Radio Network.

Huskers bounce Roos, 84-38

Kearney, Neb. -&nbsp;The now fifth-ranked Nebraska-Kearney volleyball team is in the NCAA Tournament for a 25th straight season and will battle 32nd-ranked and MIAA rival Washburn&nbsp;in the first round of the Central Regional.

The 64-team NCAA Tournament field -- eight schools from each of Division II's eight regions -- was announced tonight. The complete bracket is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/volleyball-women/d2/2024">HERE</a>; region winners advance to the Elite Eight December 12-14 in Sioux Falls. The Central Regional will be Friday-Saturday (Dec. 5-7) in St. Cloud, Minn., with St. Cloud State serving as host. Match times to be announced.

The third-seeded Lopers (30-2) were ranked second in the final region rankings (Nov. 17) and reached the MIAA Tournament finals this past weekend. The Ichabods (20-7) were ranked sixth in the Central and remained so despite losing to Northwest Missouri in the MIAA quarterfinals. UNK swept the regular season series from WU, 3-0 in Kearney and 3-2 in Topeka. 

The Lopers also took the only previous NCAA meeting between the two, 3-0, back in a 2012 first round match.&nbsp;UNK is 34-27 all-time in the NCAA's, advancing to the Elite Eight in 2019, 2005, 2004, 2003, 1996 and 1995. The Lopers&nbsp;were National Runners up in 2019 and 2005. 

Finally, the 25-year NCAA run trails only the University of Tampa as the Spartans have made the "Big Dance" the past 28 years.Below are the seeds for the regional, along with national rankings as of Nov. 25, and record to date. The AVCA national rankings have no bearing on the NCAA Tourney selection process.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Seed&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; National Rank/School/Record … Bid

&nbsp; 1. #2 St. Cloud State (27-2)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference

&nbsp; 2. #6 Central Oklahoma (30-2)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the MIAA

&nbsp; 3.&nbsp; #5 UNK (30-2) …&nbsp;At-Large

&nbsp; 4. #9 Concordia-St. Paul (23-6)&nbsp;… At-Large

&nbsp; 5. #26 Missouri Western State (23-7) …&nbsp;At-Large

&nbsp; 7. #15 Southwest Minnesota State (23-5) ….&nbsp;At-Large

&nbsp; 8.&nbsp; Ouachita Baptist, Ark. (22-9)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the Great American Conference

Left Out: #16 Wayne State (23-7), #17 Northern (21-7), #T-32 Minnesota-Duluth (15-11)

SCSU/OBU Winner Vs. CSP/MWSU Winner&nbsp;&nbsp;

Most NCAA Division II Appearances (All-Time)

7. Ferris State, Mich. (28)/UNK (28)

UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. -&nbsp;The now fifth-ranked Nebraska-Kearney volleyball team is in the NCAA Tournament for a 25th straight season and will battle 32nd-ranked and MIAA rival Washburn&nbsp;in the first round of the Central Regional.The 64-team NCAA Tournament field -- eight schools from each of Division II's eight regions -- was announced tonight. The complete bracket is available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/volleyball-women/d2/2024">HERE</a>; region winners advance to the Elite Eight December 12-14 in Sioux Falls. The Central Regional will be Friday-Saturday (Dec. 5-7) in St. Cloud, Minn., with St. Cloud State serving as host. Match times to be announced.The third-seeded Lopers (30-2) were ranked second in the final region rankings (Nov. 17) and reached the MIAA Tournament finals this past weekend. The Ichabods (20-7) were ranked sixth in the Central and remained so despite losing to Northwest Missouri in the MIAA quarterfinals. UNK swept the regular season series from WU, 3-0 in Kearney and 3-2 in Topeka. The Lopers also took the only previous NCAA meeting between the two, 3-0, back in a 2012 first round match.&nbsp;UNK is 34-27 all-time in the NCAA's, advancing to the Elite Eight in 2019, 2005, 2004, 2003, 1996 and 1995. The Lopers&nbsp;were National Runners up in 2019 and 2005. Finally, the 25-year NCAA run trails only the University of Tampa as the Spartans have made the "Big Dance" the past 28 years.Below are the seeds for the regional, along with national rankings as of Nov. 25, and record to date. The AVCA national rankings have no bearing on the NCAA Tourney selection process.&nbsp;&nbsp;Seed&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; National Rank/School/Record … Bid&nbsp; 1. #2 St. Cloud State (27-2)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference&nbsp; 2. #6 Central Oklahoma (30-2)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the MIAA&nbsp; 3.&nbsp; #5 UNK (30-2) …&nbsp;At-Large&nbsp; 4. #9 Concordia-St. Paul (23-6)&nbsp;… At-Large&nbsp; 5. #26 Missouri Western State (23-7) …&nbsp;At-Large6.&nbsp; #T-32 Washburn (20-7)&nbsp; 7. #15 Southwest Minnesota State (23-5) ….&nbsp;At-Large&nbsp; 8.&nbsp; Ouachita Baptist, Ark. (22-9)&nbsp;… Automatic bid from the Great American ConferenceLeft Out: #16 Wayne State (23-7), #17 Northern (21-7), #T-32 Minnesota-Duluth (15-11)Thursday, Dec. 5No. 3 UNK vs. No. 6 WUNo. 2 UCO vs. No. 7 SMSUNo. 4 CU vs. No. 5 MWSUNo. 1 SCSU vs. No. 8 OBU&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday, Dec. 6WU/UNK Winner vs. SMSU/UCO WinnerSCSU/OBU Winner Vs. CSP/MWSU Winner&nbsp;&nbsp;Saturday, Dec. 7Championship Match&nbsp;&nbsp;Most NCAA Division II Appearances (All-Time)1. Tampa (39)2. New Haven, Conn. (37)3. Central Missouri (36)4. Florida Southern (34)5. West Texas A&amp;M (32)6. Metro State, Colo. (30)7. Ferris State, Mich. (28)/UNK (28)

UNK Volleyball #5 Lopers in NCAA's for a 25th Consecutive Year, Face 32nd-ranked Washburn

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Junior&nbsp;Hanna Schimmer&nbsp;has been named to the 2024 Division II Conference Commissioners Association (D2 CAA)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/documents/2024/11/26/2024_CSC_All-Central_Region_Soccer.pdf">All-Central Region team.</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/documents/2024/11/26/2024_CSC_All-Central_Region_Soccer.pdf"></a>The squad is voted upon by College Sports Communicators (CSC) with the Central consisting of the MIAA, Great American Conference (GAC) and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).&nbsp;

Schimmer (Council Bluffs, Ia.) was one of 13 MIAA players tabbed as she earned second-team honors. She joins fellow forward Montanna Hosterman as the only Lopers to have named all-region. Hostermann was a third team pick on the coaches' squad back in 2015.One of the top offensive threats in the MIAA this fall, Schimmer set new school records for goals (10), shots (68), shots on goal (36) and converted PK's (three). The transfer from Midland and Iowa Western had three games with two goals to finish with 21 points. Finally, she helped UNK go 8-6-5 and reach the MIAA Tournament for the first time in nine years.

Central Oklahoma graduate forward Rebekah George was named the Region Player of the Year with the MIA having seven on the first team and six on the second team. A total of 25 players were chosen overall with first-team selections advancing to the national ballot where they could earn All-American status.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Junior&nbsp;Hanna Schimmer&nbsp;has been named to the 2024 Division II Conference Commissioners Association (D2 CAA)&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/documents/2024/11/26/2024_CSC_All-Central_Region_Soccer.pdf">All-Central Region team.</a><a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/documents/2024/11/26/2024_CSC_All-Central_Region_Soccer.pdf"></a>The squad is voted upon by College Sports Communicators (CSC) with the Central consisting of the MIAA, Great American Conference (GAC) and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).&nbsp;Schimmer (Council Bluffs, Ia.) was one of 13 MIAA players tabbed as she earned second-team honors. She joins fellow forward Montanna Hosterman as the only Lopers to have named all-region. Hostermann was a third team pick on the coaches' squad back in 2015.One of the top offensive threats in the MIAA this fall, Schimmer set new school records for goals (10), shots (68), shots on goal (36) and converted PK's (three). The transfer from Midland and Iowa Western had three games with two goals to finish with 21 points. Finally, she helped UNK go 8-6-5 and reach the MIAA Tournament for the first time in nine years.Central Oklahoma graduate forward Rebekah George was named the Region Player of the Year with the MIA having seven on the first team and six on the second team. A total of 25 players were chosen overall with first-team selections advancing to the national ballot where they could earn All-American status.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNK Soccer: Schimmer Second Loper to be Named All-Region

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and first Pro Volleyball Champions, are thrilled to announce its six-person 2024 draft class, which was selected during the 2024 PVF Draft earlier on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Supernovas second full draft class includes middle blocker&nbsp;Toyosi Onabanjo&nbsp;from Kansas, opposite&nbsp;Emily Londot&nbsp;from Ohio State, outside hitter&nbsp;Ally Batenhorst&nbsp;from USC, outside hitter&nbsp;Lindsay Krause&nbsp;from Nebraska, outside hitter&nbsp;Valeria Vazquez-Gomez&nbsp;from Pittsburgh and setter&nbsp;Kendra Wait&nbsp;from Creighton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Today is a phenomenal day for our sport and an opportunity to celebrate the incredible success of these athletes,"&nbsp;Supernovas head coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn&nbsp;said. "We’re thrilled with the depth we’ve added on both pins and excited to see the young talent grow and develop in our gym. Last season taught us the importance of depth and competitive chemistry, and this group will play a key role in strengthening our 2025 Supernovas squad!"

Omaha bolstered its middle blocker group with its first selection at No. 8 overall with Onabanjo for the final pick of the first round. &nbsp;

Onabanjo spent her first two seasons at Iowa before transferring to Kansas ahead of the 2023 season. She put up 1.82 kills per set with 101 total blocks during her junior season, but it’s her senior campaign that has made her into one of the top middle blockers in the country. The Houston, Texas native is averaging 2.58 kills per set this season on a .408 hitting percentage with 101 blocks (1.2 B/S). She’s put up double-digit kills in nine matches this season including a season-high 22 kills in a match at Duke earlier in the year. &nbsp;

The Supernovas followed up with Londot two picks later for the second selection of the second round at No. 10 overall, which was a draft pick Omaha acquired last season in a trade with the San Diego Mojo.&nbsp;

Londot comes to Omaha after being one of the best offensive players in college volleyball since she won the AVCA National Freshman of the Year award in 2020. Named a second team All-American in 2020 and 2022, Londot has a career 4.22 kills per set mark in over 140 career matches. &nbsp;

She’s continued that stellar play during her fifth and final college season in 2024, posting a 4.41 kills per set mark. She’s also improved her blocking during her final college season, posting 102 blocks (0.88 B/S) with 30 aces. A three-time All-Big Ten first team selection, Londot entered the 2024 season top five in program history in kills and points while being in the top 20 in block assists, total blocks and digs. &nbsp;

The Supernovas picked again in the second round at No. 15 overall, drafting USC outside hitter Ally Batenhorst, who returns to the Cornhusker state after spending her first three college seasons at Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Batenhorst has excelled in her first season as a full-time starting outside hitter, averaging 3.82 kills per set to lead the team on a .228 hitting percentage with 2.09 digs per set, 86 blocks and 26 aces. The former Husker spent three seasons in Lincoln appearing in at least 26 matches during each year. Her best season came in 2022 as a sophomore where she recorded 2.33 kills per set, 1.06 digs per set and 0.57 blocks per set in 72 sets across 26 matches. &nbsp;

The Supernovas continued its Nebraska trend by drafting NU outside hitter Lindsay Krause at No. 19 overall in the third round. &nbsp;

A 6-foot-4 senior for Nebraska, Krause will return to her hometown when she joins the Supernovas after coming out of Omaha Skutt High School as the No. 1 overall recruit in the country. Krause has played in 99 career matches for Nebraska, recording 2.36 kills per set with 185 total blocks and 24 aces, with 15 of them coming this year. &nbsp;

“Being a drafted as a Supernova means the world to me,” Krause said. “I am so beyond grateful to get the opportunity to continue to represent and compete for my home state of Nebraska. The rich culture this team Coach Bird has already created in just one season is something I cannot wait to be a part of! GBR forever, and go Novas!”&nbsp;

11 picks later the Supernovas selected Pittsburgh outside hitter Valeria Vazquez-Gomez in the fourth round at No. 30 overall.&nbsp;

Vazquez-Gomez has helped Pittsburgh to its first two Final Four appearances in program history, with the Panthers amidst another great season in which they could reach a third consecutive Final Four.&nbsp;Vazquez-Gomez is a complete six-rotation outside hitter. She’s already matched her career high in aces (34) this season while adding 2.15 kills and 1.98 digs per set with 28 blocks. &nbsp;

The Puerto Rico native has racked up numerous accolades including an AVCA Second Team All-American honor and All-ACC Firrst Team selection in 2022. She was also named to the All-ACC Second Team in 2023 after hitting a career high .258 on the year. &nbsp;

Omaha rounded out its draft class in the fifth round at No. 37 overall with the selection of&nbsp;Wait.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wait will go down as one of the greatest players in Creighton Volleyball history and has become one of the best setters in the country. A three-time AVCA All-American honree, Wait has a career 10.74 assists per set mark in over 125 matches with 3.19 digs per set, 476 kills, 343 blocks and 83 aces. &nbsp;

She’s in the middle of another phenomeal season for a top-ten Creighton team with 10.99 assists and 2.98 digs per set with 91 kills, 87 blocks and 21 aces. &nbsp;

With the conclusion of the draft, Omaha will enter training camp with 18 players competing for a spot on the 2025 roster with the new season set to begin with Banner Night when the Supernovas host the Atlanta Vibe on Friday, January 10 at 7 p.m. CST at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;

Fans can recap all the draft action by viewing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXzjX2mQvC49g-3mwHMXtn65skrT9No6FmNoPwrs6hZ46ZxjT0WVzjcuajfkyZW7sbyu5KaVeg0zkGgpt2oUDpjf47GfrcR6QlGvVxtHpzu7Oo_IsQFuO38Pw-y_19CqJ92K0Go7pmyYQ&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Draft Tracker.</a>&nbsp;

Fans can also tune in at 6:30 p.m. CST to watch the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX6ZDxeWycQKjIob-3dcjxHB7TpNH54c042nrKxqIIARVj-bk0dlpdnepGCcc9u7Fr8Esk9_Wi2zLoKOT-848-K2AS3N0wad4bt5TVUHejbZhMbLQ_fw0LfJveljJFHbrDQ==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Post Draft Live Show,</a>&nbsp;hosted by John Baylor and Renee Saunders. The show will consist of live interviews with Supernovas coaches, players and draftees to celebrate the 2024 draft class.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The show will be live streamed on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX6ZDxeWycQKjIob-3dcjxHB7TpNH54c042nrKxqIIARVj-bk0dlpdnepGCcc9u7Fr8Esk9_Wi2zLoKOT-848-K2AS3N0wad4bt5TVUHejbZhMbLQ_fw0LfJveljJFHbrDQ==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas YouTube channel</a>&nbsp;and social pages.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With another star-loaded roster and more opportunities to see the Supernovas, fans can buy the world’s hottest ticket in professional volleyball. Buy your 2025 season tickets today by clicking this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXytlaXstMAXJlq91phILMheWrq62CGv7oJ1UBBn5egqTVvlwStT1eTFeFyj6YotEdQJ6lTxY84Ecs1uJhFh08u2eVQcpDO8JdetSb4QCWaXT73AgfEAHJDbKCwwL8aQgwFULMQ5HhTJ2&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New for 2025 is a totally customizable, half-season ticket package. Choose any seven of the team’s 14 home matches and even select different seats for each game, with prices starting as low as $14 per match. Customize your Supernovas experience today by visiting this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX0Km-QJYChCXC6oG5U1C-30j2D4BYzqoUF58XcIYtTWMLhfmCBkW5UqvMKtMmd4QtepL6W2MYBgzrgyfdX_lXSyf5AwJ1qh9xt8T0gr06l6gWGGZS0zWY1Cfpvz9ulajsDSX50TB8TITERMkXhJUmrc=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Check out the Supernovas full&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX_jcz1TOmuzf_Wehrl3rNhb3Bs8E4uvk4KpHgpdbA07kxoX_Txj5NRKc4KYufZVSqMWNQArFQ9Y5K0k7fcKLASpc28ShD2hFD5gmgX1o4xmhzfOoFWJvkZKpTJxzNAd95lmQLUMjLBinhkBD6-GOuUw=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">2025 schedule.</a>&nbsp;

For any questions regarding the season ticket purchase process, please visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXxGlcA7K4rBDqRqZ-T-XP0EVsU_QrV5VCr5gsCk-p2lGF3O0okk-y9pQ_5YFNf121Z1sh8uCiT9Br5SVSQ4cMDJMfUpzJD4WDp1boVQ9CtkHxQqoBJ4oNag=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Ticket FAQ page</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-502-5268.&nbsp;

To receive Supernovas updates, news and ticket information, download the official Supernovas App by clicking this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXwbpRGQ_fXjnXTN2eZGYfIL28QxJ30nkeFgjN3mp_Cylw9IEO-mcAlBai7HReGq5uiDDIzp9idL0WrI6BLH46d6qA4KCioBsCsfs3TskTkvJNJVsLQ6Pq1DNXNMQCCNGhg==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;

To celebrate being the inaugural PVF champions, fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the official Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX_r4yJWzludT958t9AW6kEDnxfu7phbThV8H_jNAq1BWOH9pVtZCYHgDouTSZ34kTjUat1nLTxLZrxCfkNBoS8tb_sAQx1XLkkJfae2pI-k1G2k24mnce3LpLh6uJcza0eamo-3B2bMR&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this fall!&nbsp;

ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Omaha Supernovas are the premier home of professional volleyball, boasting the No. 1 Pro Volleyball average attendance in the world. The Supernovas 2025 season will begin in January. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo and entrepreneur Danny White, Co-Founder of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation is the leading professional volleyball league in the United States. PVF sets the standard for the sport, offering the largest number of franchises, unmatched attendance, extensive broadcast coverage and substantial championship prize money. It combines top-tier talent, including NCAA stars and international athletes, with cutting-edge production and technology to provide fans with an unmatched viewing experience. As a vital link between collegiate volleyball and the professional stage, PVF is dedicated to shaping the future of the sport and increasing visibility for its athletes. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732568969106.jpeg" alt="Nebraska - Lindsay Krause (Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska - Lindsay Krause (Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Geoff ExstromOmaha SupernovasOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and first Pro Volleyball Champions, are thrilled to announce its six-person 2024 draft class, which was selected during the 2024 PVF Draft earlier on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Supernovas second full draft class includes middle blocker&nbsp;Toyosi Onabanjo&nbsp;from Kansas, opposite&nbsp;Emily Londot&nbsp;from Ohio State, outside hitter&nbsp;Ally Batenhorst&nbsp;from USC, outside hitter&nbsp;Lindsay Krause&nbsp;from Nebraska, outside hitter&nbsp;Valeria Vazquez-Gomez&nbsp;from Pittsburgh and setter&nbsp;Kendra Wait&nbsp;from Creighton.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Today is a phenomenal day for our sport and an opportunity to celebrate the incredible success of these athletes,"&nbsp;Supernovas head coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn&nbsp;said. "We’re thrilled with the depth we’ve added on both pins and excited to see the young talent grow and develop in our gym. Last season taught us the importance of depth and competitive chemistry, and this group will play a key role in strengthening our 2025 Supernovas squad!"Omaha bolstered its middle blocker group with its first selection at No. 8 overall with Onabanjo for the final pick of the first round. &nbsp;Onabanjo spent her first two seasons at Iowa before transferring to Kansas ahead of the 2023 season. She put up 1.82 kills per set with 101 total blocks during her junior season, but it’s her senior campaign that has made her into one of the top middle blockers in the country. The Houston, Texas native is averaging 2.58 kills per set this season on a .408 hitting percentage with 101 blocks (1.2 B/S). She’s put up double-digit kills in nine matches this season including a season-high 22 kills in a match at Duke earlier in the year. &nbsp;The Supernovas followed up with Londot two picks later for the second selection of the second round at No. 10 overall, which was a draft pick Omaha acquired last season in a trade with the San Diego Mojo.&nbsp;Londot comes to Omaha after being one of the best offensive players in college volleyball since she won the AVCA National Freshman of the Year award in 2020. Named a second team All-American in 2020 and 2022, Londot has a career 4.22 kills per set mark in over 140 career matches. &nbsp;She’s continued that stellar play during her fifth and final college season in 2024, posting a 4.41 kills per set mark. She’s also improved her blocking during her final college season, posting 102 blocks (0.88 B/S) with 30 aces. A three-time All-Big Ten first team selection, Londot entered the 2024 season top five in program history in kills and points while being in the top 20 in block assists, total blocks and digs. &nbsp;The Supernovas picked again in the second round at No. 15 overall, drafting USC outside hitter Ally Batenhorst, who returns to the Cornhusker state after spending her first three college seasons at Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;Batenhorst has excelled in her first season as a full-time starting outside hitter, averaging 3.82 kills per set to lead the team on a .228 hitting percentage with 2.09 digs per set, 86 blocks and 26 aces. The former Husker spent three seasons in Lincoln appearing in at least 26 matches during each year. Her best season came in 2022 as a sophomore where she recorded 2.33 kills per set, 1.06 digs per set and 0.57 blocks per set in 72 sets across 26 matches. &nbsp;The Supernovas continued its Nebraska trend by drafting NU outside hitter Lindsay Krause at No. 19 overall in the third round. &nbsp;A 6-foot-4 senior for Nebraska, Krause will return to her hometown when she joins the Supernovas after coming out of Omaha Skutt High School as the No. 1 overall recruit in the country. Krause has played in 99 career matches for Nebraska, recording 2.36 kills per set with 185 total blocks and 24 aces, with 15 of them coming this year. &nbsp;“Being a drafted as a Supernova means the world to me,” Krause said. “I am so beyond grateful to get the opportunity to continue to represent and compete for my home state of Nebraska. The rich culture this team Coach Bird has already created in just one season is something I cannot wait to be a part of! GBR forever, and go Novas!”&nbsp;11 picks later the Supernovas selected Pittsburgh outside hitter Valeria Vazquez-Gomez in the fourth round at No. 30 overall.&nbsp;Vazquez-Gomez has helped Pittsburgh to its first two Final Four appearances in program history, with the Panthers amidst another great season in which they could reach a third consecutive Final Four.&nbsp;Vazquez-Gomez is a complete six-rotation outside hitter. She’s already matched her career high in aces (34) this season while adding 2.15 kills and 1.98 digs per set with 28 blocks. &nbsp;The Puerto Rico native has racked up numerous accolades including an AVCA Second Team All-American honor and All-ACC Firrst Team selection in 2022. She was also named to the All-ACC Second Team in 2023 after hitting a career high .258 on the year. &nbsp;Omaha rounded out its draft class in the fifth round at No. 37 overall with the selection of&nbsp;Wait.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wait will go down as one of the greatest players in Creighton Volleyball history and has become one of the best setters in the country. A three-time AVCA All-American honree, Wait has a career 10.74 assists per set mark in over 125 matches with 3.19 digs per set, 476 kills, 343 blocks and 83 aces. &nbsp;She’s in the middle of another phenomeal season for a top-ten Creighton team with 10.99 assists and 2.98 digs per set with 91 kills, 87 blocks and 21 aces. &nbsp;With the conclusion of the draft, Omaha will enter training camp with 18 players competing for a spot on the 2025 roster with the new season set to begin with Banner Night when the Supernovas host the Atlanta Vibe on Friday, January 10 at 7 p.m. CST at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;Fans can recap all the draft action by viewing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXzjX2mQvC49g-3mwHMXtn65skrT9No6FmNoPwrs6hZ46ZxjT0WVzjcuajfkyZW7sbyu5KaVeg0zkGgpt2oUDpjf47GfrcR6QlGvVxtHpzu7Oo_IsQFuO38Pw-y_19CqJ92K0Go7pmyYQ&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Draft Tracker.</a>&nbsp;Fans can also tune in at 6:30 p.m. CST to watch the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX6ZDxeWycQKjIob-3dcjxHB7TpNH54c042nrKxqIIARVj-bk0dlpdnepGCcc9u7Fr8Esk9_Wi2zLoKOT-848-K2AS3N0wad4bt5TVUHejbZhMbLQ_fw0LfJveljJFHbrDQ==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Post Draft Live Show,</a>&nbsp;hosted by John Baylor and Renee Saunders. The show will consist of live interviews with Supernovas coaches, players and draftees to celebrate the 2024 draft class.&nbsp;&nbsp;The show will be live streamed on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX6ZDxeWycQKjIob-3dcjxHB7TpNH54c042nrKxqIIARVj-bk0dlpdnepGCcc9u7Fr8Esk9_Wi2zLoKOT-848-K2AS3N0wad4bt5TVUHejbZhMbLQ_fw0LfJveljJFHbrDQ==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas YouTube channel</a>&nbsp;and social pages.&nbsp;&nbsp;With another star-loaded roster and more opportunities to see the Supernovas, fans can buy the world’s hottest ticket in professional volleyball. Buy your 2025 season tickets today by clicking this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXytlaXstMAXJlq91phILMheWrq62CGv7oJ1UBBn5egqTVvlwStT1eTFeFyj6YotEdQJ6lTxY84Ecs1uJhFh08u2eVQcpDO8JdetSb4QCWaXT73AgfEAHJDbKCwwL8aQgwFULMQ5HhTJ2&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;New for 2025 is a totally customizable, half-season ticket package. Choose any seven of the team’s 14 home matches and even select different seats for each game, with prices starting as low as $14 per match. Customize your Supernovas experience today by visiting this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX0Km-QJYChCXC6oG5U1C-30j2D4BYzqoUF58XcIYtTWMLhfmCBkW5UqvMKtMmd4QtepL6W2MYBgzrgyfdX_lXSyf5AwJ1qh9xt8T0gr06l6gWGGZS0zWY1Cfpvz9ulajsDSX50TB8TITERMkXhJUmrc=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Check out the Supernovas full&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX_jcz1TOmuzf_Wehrl3rNhb3Bs8E4uvk4KpHgpdbA07kxoX_Txj5NRKc4KYufZVSqMWNQArFQ9Y5K0k7fcKLASpc28ShD2hFD5gmgX1o4xmhzfOoFWJvkZKpTJxzNAd95lmQLUMjLBinhkBD6-GOuUw=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">2025 schedule.</a>&nbsp;For any questions regarding the season ticket purchase process, please visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXxGlcA7K4rBDqRqZ-T-XP0EVsU_QrV5VCr5gsCk-p2lGF3O0okk-y9pQ_5YFNf121Z1sh8uCiT9Br5SVSQ4cMDJMfUpzJD4WDp1boVQ9CtkHxQqoBJ4oNag=&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">Supernovas Ticket FAQ page</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-502-5268.&nbsp;To receive Supernovas updates, news and ticket information, download the official Supernovas App by clicking this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxXwbpRGQ_fXjnXTN2eZGYfIL28QxJ30nkeFgjN3mp_Cylw9IEO-mcAlBai7HReGq5uiDDIzp9idL0WrI6BLH46d6qA4KCioBsCsfs3TskTkvJNJVsLQ6Pq1DNXNMQCCNGhg==&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>.&nbsp;To celebrate being the inaugural PVF champions, fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the official Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qCVG_CWFZjvF3HOaVqTkaXIu8dIhCXzGnjKVWTuOWcaSF0ojHihxX_r4yJWzludT958t9AW6kEDnxfu7phbThV8H_jNAq1BWOH9pVtZCYHgDouTSZ34kTjUat1nLTxLZrxCfkNBoS8tb_sAQx1XLkkJfae2pI-k1G2k24mnce3LpLh6uJcza0eamo-3B2bMR&amp;c=NzPU12LJpCnC67AFW9ZhiqvJvwGRtJOE8jIg_FxgyDG4iRDKrMWbzA==&amp;ch=Tfcf2l9TcQjs6YTrHUNO2BSMQQ5bvSX9W4YYPgJ52cQ0YMAh_1FkqQ==">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this fall!&nbsp;ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas are the premier home of professional volleyball, boasting the No. 1 Pro Volleyball average attendance in the world. The Supernovas 2025 season will begin in January. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo and entrepreneur Danny White, Co-Founder of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is the leading professional volleyball league in the United States. PVF sets the standard for the sport, offering the largest number of franchises, unmatched attendance, extensive broadcast coverage and substantial championship prize money. It combines top-tier talent, including NCAA stars and international athletes, with cutting-edge production and technology to provide fans with an unmatched viewing experience. As a vital link between collegiate volleyball and the professional stage, PVF is dedicated to shaping the future of the sport and increasing visibility for its athletes. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.&nbsp;

Onabanjo, Londot, Local Connections Headline Supernovas 2024 Draft Class 

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

North Platte – The North Platte Community College volleyball, women’s basketball, softball and golf programs will join the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I ranks beginning July 1.

"Over the past several months we&nbsp;have evaluated what would be best for all our athletic teams moving forward,” said athletic director Kevin O’Connor. “The transition to Division I will enhance our ability to schedule opponents and allow the programs to offer more scholarship aid than what is allowed at the Division II level."

The move comes after the departure of Central Community College, who will be staying in the Division II ranks but joining Region XI.

The transition will allow athletic programs the ability to offer a limited number of full scholarships (tuition, books, fees, room &amp; board) for students interested in continuing their academic and athletic careers at the next level.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte – The North Platte Community College volleyball, women’s basketball, softball and golf programs will join the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I ranks beginning July 1."Over the past several months we&nbsp;have evaluated what would be best for all our athletic teams moving forward,” said athletic director Kevin O’Connor. “The transition to Division I will enhance our ability to schedule opponents and allow the programs to offer more scholarship aid than what is allowed at the Division II level."The move comes after the departure of Central Community College, who will be staying in the Division II ranks but joining Region XI.The transition will allow athletic programs the ability to offer a limited number of full scholarships (tuition, books, fees, room &amp; board) for students interested in continuing their academic and athletic careers at the next level.All Knights athletic programs will compete alongside Casper, Central Wyoming, Eastern Wyoming, Gillette, Lamar, Laramie County, Luna, McCook, Northeastern, Northwest, Otero,&nbsp;Southeast, Trinidad, Western Nebraska and Western Wyoming in Region IX play.