LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;Wrestling enthusiasts and sports fans in Lincoln, Nebraska, are in for a treat as the "Heartland Havoc" is set to grace the city. This highly anticipated event, scheduled for November 11th &amp; 12th at the Lincoln Sports Foundation Complex, promises to deliver an electrifying showcase of amazing talent and great competition.

Heartland Havoc brings together skilled and dedicated wrestlers from all around the region, who will battle it out on the mat. With a thrilling lineup of matches, the tournament is expected to host 200+ wrestlers including wrestlers from Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, South Dakota and more.

Registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c7OP-jHWoZnKvaxtbyiymdl6fJqlYgm7ekGS2eKhwp98LfYoRFcWCRshg-FNo9dZY0seh-39u70A9eGsRwmLgAIYHw3TlhrPrgLJMtVtePEPaCRTEIViRwMWPZEUrUNB5w==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">HeartlandHavoc.com</a>&nbsp;up until November 3rd for team entries and November 9th for individual entries. Walk-ins are&nbsp;only&nbsp;allowed at weigh-ins at Lincoln Sports Foundation Complex if registration is not already full.

Medals will be awarded in each bracket depending on bracket size. There will also be team awards provided for the 1st and 2nd placed teams.

Spectators are encouraged to come see what the fun is all about. General admission per day is as followed: Adults - $10, Students - $5, Ages Four and Younger - FREE. Concessions will be available for spectators and athletes.

Contact Wrestling Director David Charroin at<a href="http://csgwrestling@gmail.com"> csgwrestling@gmail.com</a> with any questions pertaining to Satellite weigh-ins and registration. If you wish to speak with David, please include your phone number in the email. For more information on the website, please visit <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c7OP-jHWoZnKvaxtbyiymdl6fJqlYgm7ekGS2eKhwp98LfYoRFcWCRshg-FNo9dZY0seh-39u70A9eGsRwmLgAIYHw3TlhrPrgLJMtVtePEPaCRTEIViRwMWPZEUrUNB5w==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>&nbsp;or contact the Nebraska Sports Council office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@nebraskasportscouncil.com" target="_blank">info@nebraskasportscouncil.com</a>.

For updates on the event, follow&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c8Gjery44GI0_jBderXjXv7-jnKGj_XE65HXcdIPktXUthXAmI9u7AXr0MBxYRw0bbmh6h6vdN2-5CYub_AC0Ge5tLKhKqGtXBuY8Joo5m8lo8RUeVzV_-E=&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">@nesportscouncil</a>&nbsp;on Instagram and LIKE<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5cxzzyEJhjuJMNpmnYanCtF6qx98Zx_jfNRXP7MvUrA7735YehNu-QRRs8ArfOLKFgNnfOupwM3u-Z8WFe_yJTou_Fu7dmxLeXA98C0ipwVyLSZxyJ7Vv9ENSJHIWLFc-kg==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;Nebraska Sports Council&nbsp;</a>on Facebook.

Heartland Havoc is an event of the Nebraska Sports Council. Heartland Havoc sponsors and contributors are: IMT Insurance, presenting partner; Lincoln Sports Foundation, host facility; Trophies Plus, contributor; and DigitalSky, videographer.

LINCOLN, Neb. –&nbsp;Wrestling enthusiasts and sports fans in Lincoln, Nebraska, are in for a treat as the "Heartland Havoc" is set to grace the city. This highly anticipated event, scheduled for November 11th &amp; 12th at the Lincoln Sports Foundation Complex, promises to deliver an electrifying showcase of amazing talent and great competition.Heartland Havoc brings together skilled and dedicated wrestlers from all around the region, who will battle it out on the mat. With a thrilling lineup of matches, the tournament is expected to host 200+ wrestlers including wrestlers from Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, South Dakota and more.Registration is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c7OP-jHWoZnKvaxtbyiymdl6fJqlYgm7ekGS2eKhwp98LfYoRFcWCRshg-FNo9dZY0seh-39u70A9eGsRwmLgAIYHw3TlhrPrgLJMtVtePEPaCRTEIViRwMWPZEUrUNB5w==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">HeartlandHavoc.com</a>&nbsp;up until November 3rd for team entries and November 9th for individual entries. Walk-ins are&nbsp;only&nbsp;allowed at weigh-ins at Lincoln Sports Foundation Complex if registration is not already full.Medals will be awarded in each bracket depending on bracket size. There will also be team awards provided for the 1st and 2nd placed teams.Spectators are encouraged to come see what the fun is all about. General admission per day is as followed: Adults - $10, Students - $5, Ages Four and Younger - FREE. Concessions will be available for spectators and athletes.Contact Wrestling Director David Charroin at<a href="http://csgwrestling@gmail.com"> csgwrestling@gmail.com</a> with any questions pertaining to Satellite weigh-ins and registration. If you wish to speak with David, please include your phone number in the email. For more information on the website, please visit <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c7OP-jHWoZnKvaxtbyiymdl6fJqlYgm7ekGS2eKhwp98LfYoRFcWCRshg-FNo9dZY0seh-39u70A9eGsRwmLgAIYHw3TlhrPrgLJMtVtePEPaCRTEIViRwMWPZEUrUNB5w==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>&nbsp;or contact the Nebraska Sports Council office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@nebraskasportscouncil.com" target="_blank">info@nebraskasportscouncil.com</a>.For updates on the event, follow&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5c8Gjery44GI0_jBderXjXv7-jnKGj_XE65HXcdIPktXUthXAmI9u7AXr0MBxYRw0bbmh6h6vdN2-5CYub_AC0Ge5tLKhKqGtXBuY8Joo5m8lo8RUeVzV_-E=&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">@nesportscouncil</a>&nbsp;on Instagram and LIKE<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Hb3drd-FCjc0K1Ii4Rh-PXXhW12O0irSVBpyK09AU94aV_wZECg5cxzzyEJhjuJMNpmnYanCtF6qx98Zx_jfNRXP7MvUrA7735YehNu-QRRs8ArfOLKFgNnfOupwM3u-Z8WFe_yJTou_Fu7dmxLeXA98C0ipwVyLSZxyJ7Vv9ENSJHIWLFc-kg==&amp;c=cotNZPqysgDN_TInp5FPGxXZE_wGQZssVAsyTkjP57YeYhDapAMMvA==&amp;ch=gHifiUBSsoVYONAo_ThiYdG1YwC1ljUTTbEOhwIpovCmz9156f35TQ==" target="_blank">&nbsp;Nebraska Sports Council&nbsp;</a>on Facebook.Heartland Havoc is an event of the Nebraska Sports Council. Heartland Havoc sponsors and contributors are: IMT Insurance, presenting partner; Lincoln Sports Foundation, host facility; Trophies Plus, contributor; and DigitalSky, videographer.

HEARTLAND HAVOC November 11-12, 2023

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Despite outshooting the Badgers 15-10, the #15 Nebraska soccer team (14-3-3) saw its Big Ten Tournament run come to an end in the semifinals as the Huskers fell to #12 Wisconsin (13-3-4) 3-1 at Lower.com Field on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

The Badgers scored first as Aryssa Mahrt found the back of the net off an assist from Maia Richters in the 16th minute, but the Huskers kept the defensive pressure as they held the Badgers shotless for the following 13 minutes.&nbsp;

Sarah Weber then scored the equalizer in the 27th minute as Abbey Schwarz started the play as she dribbled through the Badger defense and passed to Jordan Zade, who now is tied for second on the team with seven assists. Zade sent a cross into the 18-yard box, which was gathered by Weber who punched the ball past the Badger goalie for her 12th finish of the season. This goal also marked the first time since 2010 that the Huskers have had two players with 12 or more goals on the season.&nbsp;

At the half, the teams were tied with just one shot on goal and two corners apiece, but the Huskers held the advantage in shots (8-3), with Weber leading the way with three.&nbsp;

To start the second half, the Huskers had an opportunity to score as Weber took a shot which was saved by the Badger goalie into the crossbar, but it was Wisconsin who scored first. In the 52nd minute, Emma Jaskaniec tallied a finish off an assist from Mahrt to take the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;

The Huskers battled and had opportunities to even the score, but were unable to find the back of the net. Wisconsin then sealed the 3-1 victory with a finish by Richters in the 83rd minute.&nbsp;

The NCAA selection show, set for Monday at 3 p.m. (CT), will be streamed on NCAA.com.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsDespite outshooting the Badgers 15-10, the #15 Nebraska soccer team (14-3-3) saw its Big Ten Tournament run come to an end in the semifinals as the Huskers fell to #12 Wisconsin (13-3-4) 3-1 at Lower.com Field on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;The Badgers scored first as Aryssa Mahrt found the back of the net off an assist from Maia Richters in the 16th minute, but the Huskers kept the defensive pressure as they held the Badgers shotless for the following 13 minutes.&nbsp;Sarah Weber then scored the equalizer in the 27th minute as Abbey Schwarz started the play as she dribbled through the Badger defense and passed to Jordan Zade, who now is tied for second on the team with seven assists. Zade sent a cross into the 18-yard box, which was gathered by Weber who punched the ball past the Badger goalie for her 12th finish of the season. This goal also marked the first time since 2010 that the Huskers have had two players with 12 or more goals on the season.&nbsp;At the half, the teams were tied with just one shot on goal and two corners apiece, but the Huskers held the advantage in shots (8-3), with Weber leading the way with three.&nbsp;To start the second half, the Huskers had an opportunity to score as Weber took a shot which was saved by the Badger goalie into the crossbar, but it was Wisconsin who scored first. In the 52nd minute, Emma Jaskaniec tallied a finish off an assist from Mahrt to take the 2-1 lead.&nbsp;The Huskers battled and had opportunities to even the score, but were unable to find the back of the net. Wisconsin then sealed the 3-1 victory with a finish by Richters in the 83rd minute.&nbsp;The NCAA selection show, set for Monday at 3 p.m. (CT), will be streamed on NCAA.com.&nbsp;

NU falls to #12 Wisconsin in Big Ten semifinals 

Nebraska swimming and diving continues its home meet stretch on Friday, Nov. 4, hosting Kansas at 4 p.m. (CT) at the Devaney Natatorium.

The Huskers are coming off a 195-96 victory over South Dakota State, where they captured titles in 15 of 16 events.

Sarah Barton notched first-place finishes in the 100 backstroke (57.21), 200 IM (2:07.94), 200 medley relay (1:46.25) and took second in the 500 freestyle (5:13.74). The senior from Huntersville, N.C. has five individual wins on the season so far.

Beatrix Tanko earned wins in the 50 freestyle (24.22) and the 500 freestyle (5:06.84), while contributing to the winning 200 medley relay and 200 freestyle relay. After her strong performance, Tanko was recognized as the Big Ten Freshman of the Week on Oct. 25.

Maia Hall (100 breaststroke) and JoJo Randby (200 breaststroke) swept the breaststroke events, while freshmen Anna Vlachou (100 butterfly) and Anastasia Tichy (200 butterfly) took home the butterfly crowns.

Giulia Marchi won the 100 freestyle (52.84), Gena Jorgenson took the 200 freestyle (1:52.33) and Caterina Bisiacchi earned the 1000 freestyle (10:27.62) title.

On the boards, Abby Baxter placed first on the one meter (305.55) and Antonina Harned won the three meter (318.68). Both of those scores are qualifying scores for the NCAA Zone Championships.

The Jayhawks have won all four of their duals this season, including a 169-131 win over Illinois. Last year, Kansas finished fifth at the Big 12 Championships with 487 points. The Jayhawks improved to 20-10 in the all-time series with Nebraska after taking last year's dual with a score of 157-143. Last time the teams met in Lincoln (2022), Nebraska topped Kansas, 196-106.

Live results and a live video stream will be available through huskers.com.

Nebraska vs. KansasFriday, Nov. 4 (4 p.m.)Lincoln, Neb. (Devaney Natatorium)Timing and Results:&nbsp;<a href="https://sidearmstats.com/nebraska/swimdive/index.htm" target="_blank">SIDEARM</a>

Order of Events200 Medley Relay1000 Freestyle200 Freestyle100 Backstroke100 Breaststroke200 Butterfly50 Freestyle3M Diving100 Freestyle200 Backstroke200 Breaststroke500 Freestyle100 Butterfly1M Diving400 Individual Medley400 Freestyle Relay

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska swimming and diving continues its home meet stretch on Friday, Nov. 4, hosting Kansas at 4 p.m. (CT) at the Devaney Natatorium.The Huskers are coming off a 195-96 victory over South Dakota State, where they captured titles in 15 of 16 events.Sarah Barton notched first-place finishes in the 100 backstroke (57.21), 200 IM (2:07.94), 200 medley relay (1:46.25) and took second in the 500 freestyle (5:13.74). The senior from Huntersville, N.C. has five individual wins on the season so far.Beatrix Tanko earned wins in the 50 freestyle (24.22) and the 500 freestyle (5:06.84), while contributing to the winning 200 medley relay and 200 freestyle relay. After her strong performance, Tanko was recognized as the Big Ten Freshman of the Week on Oct. 25.Maia Hall (100 breaststroke) and JoJo Randby (200 breaststroke) swept the breaststroke events, while freshmen Anna Vlachou (100 butterfly) and Anastasia Tichy (200 butterfly) took home the butterfly crowns.Giulia Marchi won the 100 freestyle (52.84), Gena Jorgenson took the 200 freestyle (1:52.33) and Caterina Bisiacchi earned the 1000 freestyle (10:27.62) title.On the boards, Abby Baxter placed first on the one meter (305.55) and Antonina Harned won the three meter (318.68). Both of those scores are qualifying scores for the NCAA Zone Championships.The Jayhawks have won all four of their duals this season, including a 169-131 win over Illinois. Last year, Kansas finished fifth at the Big 12 Championships with 487 points. The Jayhawks improved to 20-10 in the all-time series with Nebraska after taking last year's dual with a score of 157-143. Last time the teams met in Lincoln (2022), Nebraska topped Kansas, 196-106.Live results and a live video stream will be available through huskers.com.Nebraska vs. KansasFriday, Nov. 4 (4 p.m.)Lincoln, Neb. (Devaney Natatorium)Timing and Results:&nbsp;<a href="https://sidearmstats.com/nebraska/swimdive/index.htm" target="_blank">SIDEARM</a>Order of Events200 Medley Relay1000 Freestyle200 Freestyle100 Backstroke100 Breaststroke200 Butterfly50 Freestyle3M Diving100 Freestyle200 Backstroke200 Breaststroke500 Freestyle100 Butterfly1M Diving400 Individual Medley400 Freestyle Relay

Huskers take on Jayhawks at home

Story by NU Athletic Communications On a seven-match conference winning streak, the No. 15 Nebraska soccer team (14-2-3, 7-1-2 Big Ten) continues its run for a Big Ten Tournament title this week against No. 12 Wisconsin (12-3-4, 7-2-1 Big Ten) at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio.&nbsp;

The second-seeded Huskers and third-seeded Badgers square off in the semifinal round on Thursday, starting at 4 p.m. (CT). The match will be televised on the Big Ten Network.&nbsp;

Last Time OutEleanor Dale’s 10th brace of the season powered the #19 Nebraska soccer team to a 3-2 victory over Ohio State on Sunday afternoon in front of 1,227 fans at Hibner Stadium.Next UpThe Big Ten Final, played at Lower.com Field, is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. (CT) and will be televised on the Big Ten Network. The NCAA Selection Show is set for Monday, Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed live on NCAA.com.Nebraska Conference Tournament Notes• Nebraska finished Big Ten play with a 7-1-2 record and matched the second-most Big Ten wins in a season since joining the conference in 2011.• The Huskers won a share of the Big Ten regular season title with 23 points, tied with Michigan State. NU earned the No. 2 seed in conference tournament due to the tiebreakers and the Huskers’ seed marks the second-best finish in the Big Ten standings since joining the conference in 2011, behind only the 2013 team that finished the conference season with a 10-1 record.• Nebraska is making its sixth appearance in the Big Ten Tournament since joining the conference in 2011. NU is 6-4 in Big Ten Tournament games, winning the title in 2013.• Nebraska is making its 20th overall appearance in a conference tournament since 1996, when the Huskers played their first season as a member of the Big 12. NU didn’t have a conference affiliation in its first two years as a program in 1994 and 1995.• Nebraska is 24-13 in conference tournament games, winning six titles. The Huskers won the Big 12 Tournament crown in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2002, while taking home the Big Ten title in 2013.Big Ten Tournament at a Glance• Nebraska’s semifinal match against No. 3 Wisconsin will be the first game on Thursday before fourth-seeded Penn State battles No. 8 Iowa at 6:30 p.m. (CT).• In the quarterfinals, Iowa upset Michigan State 2-1, Penn State topped Indiana 3-0 and Wisconsin defeated Rutgers in penalty kicks.• The championship game will be played on Sunday, Nov. 5, starting at 1 p.m. (CT) on BTN.&nbsp;

• The Huskers are currently ranked 18th in this week’s RPI, 15th in the Top Drawer Soccer poll and 15th by the United Soccer Coaches.

• Dale, a senior from Billingham, England, earned four Big Ten Offensive Player-of-the-Week honors this season (second-most in Big Ten history), and she became the first Nebraska women’s soccer player to claim Big Ten Forward-of-the-Year honors. She leads the country in total goals (25), game-winning goals (8), goals per game (1.32) and shots per game (6.16), while also leading the conference in shots (117), shots on goal (60) and points (54). Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2001 (Christie Welsh, Penn State, 25 goals, 68 points).• Dale, who has tallied 10 braces this season, is third on Nebraska’s season goal scored list. She trails only Kim Engesser, who scored 27 goals in 1998 and 26 goals in 1997. Additionally, she is tied for first in the Huskers record books in game-winning goals and her total shots this season place her tied for second.• Gretna’s Sarah Weber joins Dale as a first-team All-Big Ten honoree as Weber captured her second-straight first-team All-Big Ten status. She ranks second in the conference in shots (78) and points (29), second in shots on goal (33) and fourth in goals (11). Nationally, Weber is tied for ninth in shots per game (4.33) and 23rd in total points.&nbsp;

• Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a three-time member of the Top Drawer Soccer team, has a team-high 16 assists on the season, good for first in the conference and second nationally. She also is ninth in the conference standings with 22 points. In the Husker record books, her assists on the season place her tied for eighth with Husker greats Jenny Benson (1996) and Brittany Timko (2004).&nbsp;

• Junior midfielder Haley Peterson and junior Jordan Zade added second-team All-Big Ten honors this season, while senior Reagan Raabe earned the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award for Nebraska.&nbsp;

• In addition to Nebraska’s five Big Ten honors, John Walker was named Big Ten Coach of the Year by his peers for the second time in his career. It is the fourth conference coach-of-the-year award for Walker, who was the 2013 Big Ten Coach of the Year, and the 1996 and 1999 Big 12 Coach of the Year. Walker was also the national coach of the year in 1996.&nbsp;

• Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (ninth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).

Story by NU Athletic Communications On a seven-match conference winning streak, the No. 15 Nebraska soccer team (14-2-3, 7-1-2 Big Ten) continues its run for a Big Ten Tournament title this week against No. 12 Wisconsin (12-3-4, 7-2-1 Big Ten) at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio.&nbsp;The second-seeded Huskers and third-seeded Badgers square off in the semifinal round on Thursday, starting at 4 p.m. (CT). The match will be televised on the Big Ten Network.&nbsp;Last Time OutEleanor Dale’s 10th brace of the season powered the #19 Nebraska soccer team to a 3-2 victory over Ohio State on Sunday afternoon in front of 1,227 fans at Hibner Stadium.Next UpThe Big Ten Final, played at Lower.com Field, is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. (CT) and will be televised on the Big Ten Network. The NCAA Selection Show is set for Monday, Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed live on NCAA.com.Nebraska Conference Tournament Notes• Nebraska finished Big Ten play with a 7-1-2 record and matched the second-most Big Ten wins in a season since joining the conference in 2011.• The Huskers won a share of the Big Ten regular season title with 23 points, tied with Michigan State. NU earned the No. 2 seed in conference tournament due to the tiebreakers and the Huskers’ seed marks the second-best finish in the Big Ten standings since joining the conference in 2011, behind only the 2013 team that finished the conference season with a 10-1 record.• Nebraska is making its sixth appearance in the Big Ten Tournament since joining the conference in 2011. NU is 6-4 in Big Ten Tournament games, winning the title in 2013.• Nebraska is making its 20th overall appearance in a conference tournament since 1996, when the Huskers played their first season as a member of the Big 12. NU didn’t have a conference affiliation in its first two years as a program in 1994 and 1995.• Nebraska is 24-13 in conference tournament games, winning six titles. The Huskers won the Big 12 Tournament crown in 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2002, while taking home the Big Ten title in 2013.Big Ten Tournament at a Glance• Nebraska’s semifinal match against No. 3 Wisconsin will be the first game on Thursday before fourth-seeded Penn State battles No. 8 Iowa at 6:30 p.m. (CT).• In the quarterfinals, Iowa upset Michigan State 2-1, Penn State topped Indiana 3-0 and Wisconsin defeated Rutgers in penalty kicks.• The championship game will be played on Sunday, Nov. 5, starting at 1 p.m. (CT) on BTN.&nbsp;Quick Notes• The Huskers are currently ranked 18th in this week’s RPI, 15th in the Top Drawer Soccer poll and 15th by the United Soccer Coaches.• Dale, a senior from Billingham, England, earned four Big Ten Offensive Player-of-the-Week honors this season (second-most in Big Ten history), and she became the first Nebraska women’s soccer player to claim Big Ten Forward-of-the-Year honors. She leads the country in total goals (25), game-winning goals (8), goals per game (1.32) and shots per game (6.16), while also leading the conference in shots (117), shots on goal (60) and points (54). Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2001 (Christie Welsh, Penn State, 25 goals, 68 points).• Dale, who has tallied 10 braces this season, is third on Nebraska’s season goal scored list. She trails only Kim Engesser, who scored 27 goals in 1998 and 26 goals in 1997. Additionally, she is tied for first in the Huskers record books in game-winning goals and her total shots this season place her tied for second.• Gretna’s Sarah Weber joins Dale as a first-team All-Big Ten honoree as Weber captured her second-straight first-team All-Big Ten status. She ranks second in the conference in shots (78) and points (29), second in shots on goal (33) and fourth in goals (11). Nationally, Weber is tied for ninth in shots per game (4.33) and 23rd in total points.&nbsp;• Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a three-time member of the Top Drawer Soccer team, has a team-high 16 assists on the season, good for first in the conference and second nationally. She also is ninth in the conference standings with 22 points. In the Husker record books, her assists on the season place her tied for eighth with Husker greats Jenny Benson (1996) and Brittany Timko (2004).&nbsp;• Junior midfielder Haley Peterson and junior Jordan Zade added second-team All-Big Ten honors this season, while senior Reagan Raabe earned the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award for Nebraska.&nbsp;• In addition to Nebraska’s five Big Ten honors, John Walker was named Big Ten Coach of the Year by his peers for the second time in his career. It is the fourth conference coach-of-the-year award for Walker, who was the 2013 Big Ten Coach of the Year, and the 1996 and 1999 Big 12 Coach of the Year. Walker was also the national coach of the year in 1996.&nbsp;• Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (ninth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).

#15 Nebraska faces #12 Wisconsin in Big Ten Semis

#6 Platteview Vs. #3 GothenburgSet 1: 25-18 PlatteviewSet 2: 25-21 GothenburgSet 3: 25-19 PlatteviewSet 4: 25-22 GothenburgSet 5: 15-11 Gothenburg

Area NSAA state championship Volleyball Results

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

Dazjanae Greene and Jada Grigsby shined in the season opener, as the Knights earned the 62-53 victory over Northwest Kansas Technical College at the Max L. Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.

Greene, a redshirt sophomore guard, led North Platte with 15 points while grabbing a season high 10 rebounds for her first double-double of the season. Grigsby chipped in 15 points including 10 in the second half to help the Knights earn the road win.

"We kept our composure under pressure in key moments tonight," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "This is a very good team win, and I am proud of our student-athletes."

North Platte found themselves down early before a late rally knotted the game up to close the opening quarter. Greene led the charge with six points, including the Knights opening field goal of the season. Grigsby chipped in four points by connecting on four straight free throw attempts under a minute to play in the quarter.

The Knights settled into their offense in the second quarter, while using a 9-0 run to build their largest lead of the first half on a three by Greene. The Mavericks managed to hold North Platte to just one more point for the remaining 6:23 of the quarter, as they cut the deficit to 23-18 by the halftime break.

Knights and Mavericks heated up from the perimeter out of the break, as teams combined for four three pointers in the opening 2:14 of the quarter. The Mavericks would knot the game up at 26-26 on a deep three, but North Platte stayed locked in and countered with a three by Grigsby. The energizing bolt ignited an 8-0 run to give the Knights the lead for good with 5:21 to play in the third quarter.

The Knights open the home portion of their schedule on Friday against Laramie County Community College. Tip is set for 5 p.m. inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsDazjanae Greene and Jada Grigsby shined in the season opener, as the Knights earned the 62-53 victory over Northwest Kansas Technical College at the Max L. Fieldhouse on Wednesday night.Greene, a redshirt sophomore guard, led North Platte with 15 points while grabbing a season high 10 rebounds for her first double-double of the season. Grigsby chipped in 15 points including 10 in the second half to help the Knights earn the road win."We kept our composure under pressure in key moments tonight," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "This is a very good team win, and I am proud of our student-athletes."North Platte found themselves down early before a late rally knotted the game up to close the opening quarter. Greene led the charge with six points, including the Knights opening field goal of the season. Grigsby chipped in four points by connecting on four straight free throw attempts under a minute to play in the quarter.The Knights settled into their offense in the second quarter, while using a 9-0 run to build their largest lead of the first half on a three by Greene. The Mavericks managed to hold North Platte to just one more point for the remaining 6:23 of the quarter, as they cut the deficit to 23-18 by the halftime break.Knights and Mavericks heated up from the perimeter out of the break, as teams combined for four three pointers in the opening 2:14 of the quarter. The Mavericks would knot the game up at 26-26 on a deep three, but North Platte stayed locked in and countered with a three by Grigsby. The energizing bolt ignited an 8-0 run to give the Knights the lead for good with 5:21 to play in the third quarter.The Knights open the home portion of their schedule on Friday against Laramie County Community College. Tip is set for 5 p.m. inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

Knights open season with win over Mavericks

Story NPCC Athletic Communications

The North Platte Community College women's basketball team finished the 2022-23 season with a 9-21 record, but look to returners to lead them back to the Region IX Championship for the fourth straight year.

The Knights, who have earned three straight trips to the Region IX Championship, will play 29 games during the 2023-24 regular season including 14 inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium. North Platte will open Region IX play against Central Community College on Saturday, Jan. 20.

North Platte returns two Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference selections from a season ago.&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/grigsby_jada_6nwi">Jada Grigsby</a>, who was also honored as a Region IX honoree, capped off her freshman campaign as the Knights leading scorer and rebounder. The guard averaged 11.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, while scoring in double-figures in 20-of-28 games during the 2022-23 season.

<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/halley_reece_kcur">Reece Halley</a>&nbsp;was the only player to start every game last season for the Knights. During her freshman campaign the Torrington, Wyo. native chipped in 9.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, while being a mainstay in the heart of the Knights interior.

Knights also return&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/riggles_samantha_7uuo">Samantha Riggles</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/johnson_emily_darb">Emily Johnson</a>&nbsp;who saw significant time in the post last season. Riggles started 26 games during the 2022-23 season, while totaling 284 points and 166 rebounds. Johnson joined the team late in the season, but her tenacious defense in the post helped the Knights win three important games down the stretch of the season.

<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/gardner_mariah_a1y5">Mariah Gardner</a>&nbsp;adds some depth at the guard position, having started 17 games a season ago. The Wallace native, connected on 29.4 percent (30-102) of her shots from long range, while tallying 178 points, 109 rebounds, 24 assists, and 19 steals.

<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/greene_dazjanae_kg5n">Dazjanae Greene</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/rodriguez_joie_zhux">Joie Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;also return for the Knights, but both redshirted during the 2022-23 campaign.

Knights will open the season on the road against Northwest Kansas Technical College on Wednesday, Nov. 1 in Goodland, Kan.

New Faces<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/golden_nariah_4g20">Nariah Golden</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/golden_nevaeh_8ldz">Nevaeh Golden</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/gooden_kateria_a0h3">Kateria Gooden</a>, Fr., Forward, College Station, Texas<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/thompson_jada_szy5">Jada Thompson</a>, Fr. Forward, Houton, Texas<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_keke_fcsh">Keke Smith</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.

Story NPCC Athletic CommunicationsThe North Platte Community College women's basketball team finished the 2022-23 season with a 9-21 record, but look to returners to lead them back to the Region IX Championship for the fourth straight year.The Knights, who have earned three straight trips to the Region IX Championship, will play 29 games during the 2023-24 regular season including 14 inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium. North Platte will open Region IX play against Central Community College on Saturday, Jan. 20.North Platte returns two Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference selections from a season ago.&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/grigsby_jada_6nwi">Jada Grigsby</a>, who was also honored as a Region IX honoree, capped off her freshman campaign as the Knights leading scorer and rebounder. The guard averaged 11.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, while scoring in double-figures in 20-of-28 games during the 2022-23 season.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/halley_reece_kcur">Reece Halley</a>&nbsp;was the only player to start every game last season for the Knights. During her freshman campaign the Torrington, Wyo. native chipped in 9.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, while being a mainstay in the heart of the Knights interior.Knights also return&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/riggles_samantha_7uuo">Samantha Riggles</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/johnson_emily_darb">Emily Johnson</a>&nbsp;who saw significant time in the post last season. Riggles started 26 games during the 2022-23 season, while totaling 284 points and 166 rebounds. Johnson joined the team late in the season, but her tenacious defense in the post helped the Knights win three important games down the stretch of the season.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/gardner_mariah_a1y5">Mariah Gardner</a>&nbsp;adds some depth at the guard position, having started 17 games a season ago. The Wallace native, connected on 29.4 percent (30-102) of her shots from long range, while tallying 178 points, 109 rebounds, 24 assists, and 19 steals.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/greene_dazjanae_kg5n">Dazjanae Greene</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/rodriguez_joie_zhux">Joie Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;also return for the Knights, but both redshirted during the 2022-23 campaign.Knights will open the season on the road against Northwest Kansas Technical College on Wednesday, Nov. 1 in Goodland, Kan.New Faces<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/golden_nariah_4g20">Nariah Golden</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/golden_nevaeh_8ldz">Nevaeh Golden</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/gooden_kateria_a0h3">Kateria Gooden</a>, Fr., Forward, College Station, Texas<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/thompson_jada_szy5">Jada Thompson</a>, Fr. Forward, Houton, Texas<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2023-24/bios/smith_keke_fcsh">Keke Smith</a>, Fr., Guard, Denver, Colo.

Five returners look to lead Knights back to region championship

Former Nebraska baseball standouts Darin Erstad and Brian Duensing and secretary Renee Brinkmann are part of the seven-member 2023 class set to be inducted into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, Nov. 19 in Beatrice, Neb.

Erstad was a history maker on the diamond, and he was also the starting punter on the Huskers 1994 national championship football team. A three-year letterwinner from 1993 to 1995, Erstad was the first Husker to be a conference player of the year and was NU's first finalist for a national player-of-the-year award. Despite playing only three seasons, he ended his career with a school-record 261 hits, while also finishing second all-time in doubles (46), third in home runs (41) and RBI (182) and fifth in runs scored (188). Erstad was a first-team All-American, the Big Eight Co-Player of the Year and a finalist for the Golden Spikes Award in 1995 after hitting .410 with 19 home runs, 79 RBI and a school-record 46 extra-base hits.&nbsp;After being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 1995 MLB Draft, Erstad went on to have a 14-year career, where he became the first player in MLB history to win Gold Glove awards at multiple positions. The three-time Gold Glove winner and two-time All-Star led the majors with 240 hits, won a Silver Slugger Award and became the first leadoff hitter in MLB history to drive in 100 runs in 2000. Erstad returned to Nebraska as a volunteer coach in 2011, before serving as head coach for eight seasons from 2012 to 2019. Under Erstad, the Huskers went 267-193-1, won the 2017 Big Ten regular-season title and had four Regional appearances.

Duensing spent four years with the Huskers after enjoying an outstanding high school career at Millard South, where he earned all-state honors as a junior and senior. The Omaha native totaled a 17-2 record with a 3.66 ERA and 136 strikeouts in 45 appearances, including 26 starts. Coming off of Tommy John surgery the previous year, Duensing bounced back in a major way with a perfect 8-0 record and 3.00 ERA in 23 appearances, including 10 starts in 2005. Proved to be one of the Big 12’s top freshmen, Duensing sported a 6-2 record with a 4.73 ERA in 78 innings in his debut season at Nebraska in 2002.

Duensing went on to have a 10-year MLB career after being a third-round draft pick by the Minnesota Twins in the 2005 MLB Draft. Duensing played the first seven seasons of his career with the Twins, before wrapping up his time in the majors with the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs. The former Husker made 484 career appearances and 61 starts, totaling a 46-38 record with a 4.19 ERA and 523 strikeouts in 762.2 innings.

Brinkmann becomes the third woman to be inducted into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame for her 37 years of service to NU baseball. In her time, Brinkmann has been the backbone of the administrative portion of the program, serving five different head coaches. Along with day-to-day office operations, Brinkmann coordinates all travel arrangements and serves as the coordinator for the Nebraska Baseball Academy.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsFormer Nebraska baseball standouts Darin Erstad and Brian Duensing and secretary Renee Brinkmann are part of the seven-member 2023 class set to be inducted into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, Nov. 19 in Beatrice, Neb.Erstad was a history maker on the diamond, and he was also the starting punter on the Huskers 1994 national championship football team. A three-year letterwinner from 1993 to 1995, Erstad was the first Husker to be a conference player of the year and was NU's first finalist for a national player-of-the-year award. Despite playing only three seasons, he ended his career with a school-record 261 hits, while also finishing second all-time in doubles (46), third in home runs (41) and RBI (182) and fifth in runs scored (188). Erstad was a first-team All-American, the Big Eight Co-Player of the Year and a finalist for the Golden Spikes Award in 1995 after hitting .410 with 19 home runs, 79 RBI and a school-record 46 extra-base hits.&nbsp;After being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 1995 MLB Draft, Erstad went on to have a 14-year career, where he became the first player in MLB history to win Gold Glove awards at multiple positions. The three-time Gold Glove winner and two-time All-Star led the majors with 240 hits, won a Silver Slugger Award and became the first leadoff hitter in MLB history to drive in 100 runs in 2000. Erstad returned to Nebraska as a volunteer coach in 2011, before serving as head coach for eight seasons from 2012 to 2019. Under Erstad, the Huskers went 267-193-1, won the 2017 Big Ten regular-season title and had four Regional appearances.Duensing spent four years with the Huskers after enjoying an outstanding high school career at Millard South, where he earned all-state honors as a junior and senior. The Omaha native totaled a 17-2 record with a 3.66 ERA and 136 strikeouts in 45 appearances, including 26 starts. Coming off of Tommy John surgery the previous year, Duensing bounced back in a major way with a perfect 8-0 record and 3.00 ERA in 23 appearances, including 10 starts in 2005. Proved to be one of the Big 12’s top freshmen, Duensing sported a 6-2 record with a 4.73 ERA in 78 innings in his debut season at Nebraska in 2002.Duensing went on to have a 10-year MLB career after being a third-round draft pick by the Minnesota Twins in the 2005 MLB Draft. Duensing played the first seven seasons of his career with the Twins, before wrapping up his time in the majors with the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs. The former Husker made 484 career appearances and 61 starts, totaling a 46-38 record with a 4.19 ERA and 523 strikeouts in 762.2 innings.Brinkmann becomes the third woman to be inducted into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame for her 37 years of service to NU baseball. In her time, Brinkmann has been the backbone of the administrative portion of the program, serving five different head coaches. Along with day-to-day office operations, Brinkmann coordinates all travel arrangements and serves as the coordinator for the Nebraska Baseball Academy.

Erstad, Duensing and Brinkmann to be inducted into Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

The 22nd-ranked Creighton Bluejays started and finished strong and used five different 7-0 runs to down Nebraska Kearney, 93-42, in an exhibition game Monday night in Omaha. This was the fourth time the&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;and 'Jays met in the exhibition era; the previous contests kicked of the 2018-19, 2004-05 and 2003-04 seasons. This was the first game UNK was under the direction of head coach&nbsp;Drew Johnson. He used 15 different players with nine getting into the scoring column and eight logging at least 10:59 of action. Of note, no official box score will be posted for this game. "There's a lot to learn from but I was very impressed with our team. It took us a minute to settle in, took us a minute to understand the pace that they were going to play. You can talk about all the screening and the actions in practice all you want but it just takes a minute when they are that long and athletic," said Johnson on the&nbsp;KRVN&nbsp;post-game radio show. &nbsp;CU, led by senior wing Morgan Maly of Crete, scored the game's first seven points and never looked back. The 'Jay's shot 54% from the field, was plus 14 on glass and took advantage of 19 Loper turnovers. However, UNK was outscored by just a 40-29 margin over the second and third quarters. The Lopers also committed just six turnovers in the first half, had 10 offensive rebounds on the night and held CU to a 7 of 24 effort (29%) from behind the arc. "I'll take the second and third quarters all day long. We would've liked to have scored it a little bit better in the third but love the energy, effort and intensity and we guarded better in the third," said Johnson. &nbsp;Super senior forward&nbsp;Shiloh McCool&nbsp;(Pleasant Hill, Ia.) led UNK with 11 points and six rebounds in 28 minutes of work. Next, redshirt senior&nbsp;Lexi Moes&nbsp;(Smithville, Mo.) knocked down two threes with grad transfer and newcomer&nbsp;Kia Wilson&nbsp;(St. George, Kan.) also scoring six. Finally, off the bench, redshirt freshman post&nbsp;Bailee Sobczak&nbsp;(Rapid City, S.D.) and junior wing&nbsp;Samantha Moore&nbsp;(Mullen) both grabbed four rebounds."You have these games to learn what you're good at and what you need to work on. Proud of our effort, proud of our toughness and how we executed," said Johnson. "You also want to give everyone the opportunity to play in this kind of environment. This is a special place (D.J. Sokol Arena)."An 2023 first-team All-Big East selection, Maly hit her first nine shots from the field and ended up with a game-high 28. She was 11 of 14 from the field (4 of 7 threes) and 2 of 2 at the line while also supplying eight defensive boards, two assists, a block and steal. Senior forward Emma Ronisek (15) and Laura Jensen (10) also were in double figures for the 'Jays who ended the game on 16-0 run. UNK starts the regular season next weekend in Marshall, Minn., with games against Minnesota-Crookston and Southwest Minnesota State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsThe 22nd-ranked Creighton Bluejays started and finished strong and used five different 7-0 runs to down Nebraska Kearney, 93-42, in an exhibition game Monday night in Omaha. This was the fourth time the&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;and 'Jays met in the exhibition era; the previous contests kicked of the 2018-19, 2004-05 and 2003-04 seasons. This was the first game UNK was under the direction of head coach&nbsp;Drew Johnson. He used 15 different players with nine getting into the scoring column and eight logging at least 10:59 of action. Of note, no official box score will be posted for this game. "There's a lot to learn from but I was very impressed with our team. It took us a minute to settle in, took us a minute to understand the pace that they were going to play. You can talk about all the screening and the actions in practice all you want but it just takes a minute when they are that long and athletic," said Johnson on the&nbsp;KRVN&nbsp;post-game radio show. &nbsp;CU, led by senior wing Morgan Maly of Crete, scored the game's first seven points and never looked back. The 'Jay's shot 54% from the field, was plus 14 on glass and took advantage of 19 Loper turnovers. However, UNK was outscored by just a 40-29 margin over the second and third quarters. The Lopers also committed just six turnovers in the first half, had 10 offensive rebounds on the night and held CU to a 7 of 24 effort (29%) from behind the arc. "I'll take the second and third quarters all day long. We would've liked to have scored it a little bit better in the third but love the energy, effort and intensity and we guarded better in the third," said Johnson. &nbsp;Super senior forward&nbsp;Shiloh McCool&nbsp;(Pleasant Hill, Ia.) led UNK with 11 points and six rebounds in 28 minutes of work. Next, redshirt senior&nbsp;Lexi Moes&nbsp;(Smithville, Mo.) knocked down two threes with grad transfer and newcomer&nbsp;Kia Wilson&nbsp;(St. George, Kan.) also scoring six. Finally, off the bench, redshirt freshman post&nbsp;Bailee Sobczak&nbsp;(Rapid City, S.D.) and junior wing&nbsp;Samantha Moore&nbsp;(Mullen) both grabbed four rebounds."You have these games to learn what you're good at and what you need to work on. Proud of our effort, proud of our toughness and how we executed," said Johnson. "You also want to give everyone the opportunity to play in this kind of environment. This is a special place (D.J. Sokol Arena)."An 2023 first-team All-Big East selection, Maly hit her first nine shots from the field and ended up with a game-high 28. She was 11 of 14 from the field (4 of 7 threes) and 2 of 2 at the line while also supplying eight defensive boards, two assists, a block and steal. Senior forward Emma Ronisek (15) and Laura Jensen (10) also were in double figures for the 'Jays who ended the game on 16-0 run. UNK starts the regular season next weekend in Marshall, Minn., with games against Minnesota-Crookston and Southwest Minnesota State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNK's season starts next friday in minnesota

LINCOLN, Neb - Nebraska setter Bergen Reilly was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week, the conference office announced on Monday.&nbsp;

Reilly collected her second career Big Ten Freshman of the Week accolade and fifth weekly honor overall, as she is a three-time Big Ten Setter of the Week so far this season.&nbsp;

The Sioux Falls, S.D., native led the Huskers to home sweeps of Maryland and Rutgers over the weekend by averaging 11.33 assists per set and 2.00 digs per set.&nbsp;Led by Reilly's setting, the Huskers hit .349 against Maryland and .384 against Rutgers for a weekend team hitting percentage of .366.&nbsp;

In the win against Maryland, Reilly had her seventh double-double of the year with 34 assists and 10 digs. She also added three kills and two blocks.&nbsp;In Saturday's win over Rutgers, Reilly finished with 34 assists, two digs, two kills, one ace and one block.

LINCOLN, Neb - Nebraska setter Bergen Reilly was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week, the conference office announced on Monday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698697649348.jpeg" alt="Bergen Reilly Earns Big Ten Freshman of the Week" />
 <figcaption>Bergen Reilly Earns Big Ten Freshman of the Week</figcaption>
 </figure>Reilly collected her second career Big Ten Freshman of the Week accolade and fifth weekly honor overall, as she is a three-time Big Ten Setter of the Week so far this season.&nbsp;The Sioux Falls, S.D., native led the Huskers to home sweeps of Maryland and Rutgers over the weekend by averaging 11.33 assists per set and 2.00 digs per set.&nbsp;Led by Reilly's setting, the Huskers hit .349 against Maryland and .384 against Rutgers for a weekend team hitting percentage of .366.&nbsp;In the win against Maryland, Reilly had her seventh double-double of the year with 34 assists and 10 digs. She also added three kills and two blocks.&nbsp;In Saturday's win over Rutgers, Reilly finished with 34 assists, two digs, two kills, one ace and one block.

Reilly Earns Big Ten Freshman of the Week

Super senior southpaw quarterback Braden Gleason threw five touchdown passes and the Emporia State defensive had three interceptions and five sacks as part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/football/stats/2023/emporia-state/boxscore/7447" target="_blank">37-19</a>&nbsp;win over Nebraska Kearney Saturday in Kansas.

The Hornets, who’ve spent much of the year nationally-ranked, improve to 7-2 while the Lopers fall to 2-7. E-State has now won five of the last seven meetings between the two, but UNK still leads the all-time series, 14-13.

“We got up 10-0 and our guys were fired up, ready to go and they embraced the weather. I’ve coached a long time … there was a lot of rain and other (weather) things that went on,” said UNK head coach&nbsp;Ryan Held.&nbsp;“To get up 10-0 and to have it turn like that is amazing.”&nbsp;

On a cold, wet and windy day, things started off well for the Blue &amp; Gold as they jetted out to a 10-0 lead. The defense forced the fast-paced Hornet offense to punt on three of their first four drives with the other one ending when sophomore end&nbsp;Jack Johnson&nbsp;(Kearney) picked off Gleason in Hornet territory.

That led to a 35-yard field goal by junior&nbsp;Kyle Failing&nbsp;(Port Orchard, Wash.) with UNK’s taking a two-score lead early in the second quarter. A 13-play, 57-yard drive featured a three-yard run by sophomore back&nbsp;Zane Schawang&nbsp;(Waverly) on 4th&nbsp;&amp; 1 from the Hornet five with Schawang then scoring on second down.

However, it was all Emporia from there as Gleason now has 112 career scores (99 passing and 13 rushing). He had TD tosses of 34, 10, 12, 19 and 15 yards as the Hornets led 18-10 at the half and 32-10 entering the fourth. The Lopers fumbled the second half kickoff which led to a zero-yard fumble return for six points and a 25-10 lead.

“We had four turnovers, went 4 of 17 on third down. We had 75 plays but not enough yardage to go with it when you add in the lost plays,” said Held. “Our defense played well early but we’re just not getting it done as coaches, we’re not getting it done as players.”

Most of ESU’s scoring drives weren’t that long as they turned two of the INT’s into TD’s with some short punts, which had to battle the wind, allowing them to start in UNK territory. Their average starting field position was their own 41-yard line and in the second quarter it moved up to the Loper 44-yard line.

Gleason’s favorite targets on the year, receivers Jaylen Varner and Tyler Kahmann, were busy again as they were targeted 26 times. Varner had 10 catches for 79 yards and one TD with Kahmann scoring twice on six grabs for 61 yards.

“We can’t seem to hold leads and then these momentum plays happen. For once, we won time possession, but 17 points isn’t good enough. The turnovers are catastrophic especially the opening kick of the second half,” said Held.

ESU had just a 343-225-yard advantage as they ran seven fewer plays than UNK. The defense managed 14 tackles for a loss of 59 yards including those five sacks (38 yards). Bringing back the three picks for 10 yards, the Hornets also blocked a punt.

“I think there was about 10 minutes left. We’re down 15 with the wind at our backs but we just couldn’t hold it up front. Gave up a couple of sacks and lots of pressures,” said Held. “It’s been a tough stretch (four teams that are or have been nationally-ranked). We’re all frustrated.”

Redshirt senior linebacker Chance Rodriguez (seven tackles, two sacks), redshirt junior defensive back Bo Odum (seven tackles, one INT) and redshirt freshman DB Tyler Schultze (blocked punt &amp; TD fumble return) led that side of the ball.&nbsp;

UNK saw QB&nbsp;TJ Davis&nbsp;(Colorado Springs) record career TD number 118, tying Jake Spitzlberger’s record. The score was an 11-yard rush with 12:43 remaining and is the 59 rushing TD of his career. He also has 58 passing and one receiving score.

Davis ran 29 times for a net of 118 yards but lost 41 yards, mainly on four sacks. In the air, he was 8 of 19 for an even 100 yards and two INT’s. Next, redshirt sophomore QB&nbsp;Sean Johnson Jr.&nbsp;(Orlando) was 3 of 6 for 23 yards and one INT while rushing four times for two yards and was sacked once. He had an 11-yard run with Davis having a team-best 17-yard scamper. &nbsp;Next, grad transfer and receiver&nbsp;Severyn Foster&nbsp;(Lincoln SE) was one of 10 Lopers targeted and had five receptions for a season-high 74 yards. Finally on offense, junior&nbsp;AJ McPhee&nbsp;(Belle Glade, Fla.) had two grabs for 30 yards with senior receiver&nbsp;Bailey Torres&nbsp;(Cerritos, Calif.) bringing back a kick 47 yards.

Tackle&nbsp;Tell Spies&nbsp;(Mullen) and end&nbsp;Delonte Dickey&nbsp;(Greenwood Village, Colo.) combined for a sack with corner&nbsp;Armani Webster&nbsp;(Chicago) and safety&nbsp;Tre O’Guinn&nbsp;(Peoria, Ariz.) at six stops apiece. Webster also broke up two passes with O’Guinn having a forced fumble.

UNK closes on the 2023 home slate next Saturday when Lincoln University (0-8) comes to Foster Field at 12 p.m.

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsSuper senior southpaw quarterback Braden Gleason threw five touchdown passes and the Emporia State defensive had three interceptions and five sacks as part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/football/stats/2023/emporia-state/boxscore/7447" target="_blank">37-19</a>&nbsp;win over Nebraska Kearney Saturday in Kansas.The Hornets, who’ve spent much of the year nationally-ranked, improve to 7-2 while the Lopers fall to 2-7. E-State has now won five of the last seven meetings between the two, but UNK still leads the all-time series, 14-13.“We got up 10-0 and our guys were fired up, ready to go and they embraced the weather. I’ve coached a long time … there was a lot of rain and other (weather) things that went on,” said UNK head coach&nbsp;Ryan Held.&nbsp;“To get up 10-0 and to have it turn like that is amazing.”&nbsp;On a cold, wet and windy day, things started off well for the Blue &amp; Gold as they jetted out to a 10-0 lead. The defense forced the fast-paced Hornet offense to punt on three of their first four drives with the other one ending when sophomore end&nbsp;Jack Johnson&nbsp;(Kearney) picked off Gleason in Hornet territory.That led to a 35-yard field goal by junior&nbsp;Kyle Failing&nbsp;(Port Orchard, Wash.) with UNK’s taking a two-score lead early in the second quarter. A 13-play, 57-yard drive featured a three-yard run by sophomore back&nbsp;Zane Schawang&nbsp;(Waverly) on 4th&nbsp;&amp; 1 from the Hornet five with Schawang then scoring on second down.However, it was all Emporia from there as Gleason now has 112 career scores (99 passing and 13 rushing). He had TD tosses of 34, 10, 12, 19 and 15 yards as the Hornets led 18-10 at the half and 32-10 entering the fourth. The Lopers fumbled the second half kickoff which led to a zero-yard fumble return for six points and a 25-10 lead.“We had four turnovers, went 4 of 17 on third down. We had 75 plays but not enough yardage to go with it when you add in the lost plays,” said Held. “Our defense played well early but we’re just not getting it done as coaches, we’re not getting it done as players.”Most of ESU’s scoring drives weren’t that long as they turned two of the INT’s into TD’s with some short punts, which had to battle the wind, allowing them to start in UNK territory. Their average starting field position was their own 41-yard line and in the second quarter it moved up to the Loper 44-yard line.Gleason’s favorite targets on the year, receivers Jaylen Varner and Tyler Kahmann, were busy again as they were targeted 26 times. Varner had 10 catches for 79 yards and one TD with Kahmann scoring twice on six grabs for 61 yards.“We can’t seem to hold leads and then these momentum plays happen. For once, we won time possession, but 17 points isn’t good enough. The turnovers are catastrophic especially the opening kick of the second half,” said Held.ESU had just a 343-225-yard advantage as they ran seven fewer plays than UNK. The defense managed 14 tackles for a loss of 59 yards including those five sacks (38 yards). Bringing back the three picks for 10 yards, the Hornets also blocked a punt.“I think there was about 10 minutes left. We’re down 15 with the wind at our backs but we just couldn’t hold it up front. Gave up a couple of sacks and lots of pressures,” said Held. “It’s been a tough stretch (four teams that are or have been nationally-ranked). We’re all frustrated.”Redshirt senior linebacker Chance Rodriguez (seven tackles, two sacks), redshirt junior defensive back Bo Odum (seven tackles, one INT) and redshirt freshman DB Tyler Schultze (blocked punt &amp; TD fumble return) led that side of the ball.&nbsp;UNK saw QB&nbsp;TJ Davis&nbsp;(Colorado Springs) record career TD number 118, tying Jake Spitzlberger’s record. The score was an 11-yard rush with 12:43 remaining and is the 59 rushing TD of his career. He also has 58 passing and one receiving score.Davis ran 29 times for a net of 118 yards but lost 41 yards, mainly on four sacks. In the air, he was 8 of 19 for an even 100 yards and two INT’s. Next, redshirt sophomore QB&nbsp;Sean Johnson Jr.&nbsp;(Orlando) was 3 of 6 for 23 yards and one INT while rushing four times for two yards and was sacked once. He had an 11-yard run with Davis having a team-best 17-yard scamper. &nbsp;Next, grad transfer and receiver&nbsp;Severyn Foster&nbsp;(Lincoln SE) was one of 10 Lopers targeted and had five receptions for a season-high 74 yards. Finally on offense, junior&nbsp;AJ McPhee&nbsp;(Belle Glade, Fla.) had two grabs for 30 yards with senior receiver&nbsp;Bailey Torres&nbsp;(Cerritos, Calif.) bringing back a kick 47 yards.Tackle&nbsp;Tell Spies&nbsp;(Mullen) and end&nbsp;Delonte Dickey&nbsp;(Greenwood Village, Colo.) combined for a sack with corner&nbsp;Armani Webster&nbsp;(Chicago) and safety&nbsp;Tre O’Guinn&nbsp;(Peoria, Ariz.) at six stops apiece. Webster also broke up two passes with O’Guinn having a forced fumble.UNK closes on the 2023 home slate next Saturday when Lincoln University (0-8) comes to Foster Field at 12 p.m.

Davis ties school td record of 118; winless lincoln up next

The Tri-City Storm ended the weekend with a 5-2 road loss to the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders at the ImOn Ice Arena Saturday night. Dallas Vieau and Artemi Nizameyev each netted a goal for the Storm during the contest. The Storm returns to action with back-to-back road games next weekend against the Youngstown Phantoms.

Dallas Vieau scored his second goal of the season at 16:28 of Saturday’s opening period to give the Storm a one-goal advantage in the matchup. Tri-City outshot Cedar Rapids 12-8 during the 1st&nbsp;period, and carried a 1-0 lead into Saturday’s 2nd&nbsp;period. The Storm entered the game with a 6-0-0-0 record during the 2023-2024 regular season when holding a lead after the 1st&nbsp;period of a matchup.

The RoughRiders tied the game with a goal scored by Amine Hajibi at 4:38 of Saturday’s middle period. The goal was netted on the powerplay, and was assisted by Ryan O’Connell. Kason Muscutt scored his first goal of the year at 6:16 of the 2nd&nbsp;period to give the RoughRiders a 2-1 lead in the matchup. The goal was scored even strength, and unassisted. Tri-City outshot Cedar Rapids 9-4 during the 2nd&nbsp;period, but trailed by a goal entering Saturday’s final period.

Cade Littler scored his seventh goal of the season just over one minute into the 3rd&nbsp;period to give the RoughRiders a two-goal lead in the battle. Littler’s goal was netted shorthanded, and was assisted by Donvan Hamilton, and Kason Muscutt. Artemi Nizameyev responded with a quick answer with his second scoring play of the season to bring Tri-City within one goal of Cedar Rapids’ lead. Nizameyev’s goal was netted at 2:19 of the 3rd&nbsp;period, and was assisted by Jake Rozzi. Aiden Welch scored his first goal of the year with less than three minutes to play to give the RoughRiders a 4-2 lead in the matchup. The final goal of Saturday’s game was scored by Caden Lee at 18:49 of the final period. The goal was scored into an empty net. The Storm outshot the RoughRiders 12-5 in the 3rd&nbsp;period, and 33-17 overall in the game. Tri-City fell to 7-5-0-0 on the season in the loss.

Cameron Korpi dropped the game in goal for the Storm after making 12 saves on 16 shots. Sam Scopa collected the win in goal for the RoughRiders in a 31-save-on-33-shot performance.

Tri-City will return home for back-to-back games against the Waterloo Black Hawks on Friday, November 10th, and Saturday, November 11th. Friday’s game will feature a $5 Kids Friday presented by Big Apple Fun Center. Saturday’s game will serve as the organization’s annual Military Appreciation Night presented by Nebraska Warriors. The Storm will wear specialty jerseys for the contest that will be auctioned off following the game. Puck drop for Friday’s game against Waterloo is set for 7:05pm CT. Saturday’s game will begin at 6:05pm CT. Tickets to each upcoming home game can be purchased online by skating to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by contacting a member of the Storm sales staff by calling the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144.

The Storm hits the ice again on Friday, November 3rd, in a road game against the Youngstown Phantoms. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:05pm CT. Skate to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>&nbsp;for individual game tickets and more information regarding the Tri-City Storm organization.&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm is presented by Viaero Wireless.

Story by Tri-City CommunicationsThe Tri-City Storm ended the weekend with a 5-2 road loss to the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders at the ImOn Ice Arena Saturday night. Dallas Vieau and Artemi Nizameyev each netted a goal for the Storm during the contest. The Storm returns to action with back-to-back road games next weekend against the Youngstown Phantoms.Dallas Vieau scored his second goal of the season at 16:28 of Saturday’s opening period to give the Storm a one-goal advantage in the matchup. Tri-City outshot Cedar Rapids 12-8 during the 1st&nbsp;period, and carried a 1-0 lead into Saturday’s 2nd&nbsp;period. The Storm entered the game with a 6-0-0-0 record during the 2023-2024 regular season when holding a lead after the 1st&nbsp;period of a matchup.The RoughRiders tied the game with a goal scored by Amine Hajibi at 4:38 of Saturday’s middle period. The goal was netted on the powerplay, and was assisted by Ryan O’Connell. Kason Muscutt scored his first goal of the year at 6:16 of the 2nd&nbsp;period to give the RoughRiders a 2-1 lead in the matchup. The goal was scored even strength, and unassisted. Tri-City outshot Cedar Rapids 9-4 during the 2nd&nbsp;period, but trailed by a goal entering Saturday’s final period.Cade Littler scored his seventh goal of the season just over one minute into the 3rd&nbsp;period to give the RoughRiders a two-goal lead in the battle. Littler’s goal was netted shorthanded, and was assisted by Donvan Hamilton, and Kason Muscutt. Artemi Nizameyev responded with a quick answer with his second scoring play of the season to bring Tri-City within one goal of Cedar Rapids’ lead. Nizameyev’s goal was netted at 2:19 of the 3rd&nbsp;period, and was assisted by Jake Rozzi. Aiden Welch scored his first goal of the year with less than three minutes to play to give the RoughRiders a 4-2 lead in the matchup. The final goal of Saturday’s game was scored by Caden Lee at 18:49 of the final period. The goal was scored into an empty net. The Storm outshot the RoughRiders 12-5 in the 3rd&nbsp;period, and 33-17 overall in the game. Tri-City fell to 7-5-0-0 on the season in the loss.Cameron Korpi dropped the game in goal for the Storm after making 12 saves on 16 shots. Sam Scopa collected the win in goal for the RoughRiders in a 31-save-on-33-shot performance.Tri-City will return home for back-to-back games against the Waterloo Black Hawks on Friday, November 10th, and Saturday, November 11th. Friday’s game will feature a $5 Kids Friday presented by Big Apple Fun Center. Saturday’s game will serve as the organization’s annual Military Appreciation Night presented by Nebraska Warriors. The Storm will wear specialty jerseys for the contest that will be auctioned off following the game. Puck drop for Friday’s game against Waterloo is set for 7:05pm CT. Saturday’s game will begin at 6:05pm CT. Tickets to each upcoming home game can be purchased online by skating to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by contacting a member of the Storm sales staff by calling the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144.The Storm hits the ice again on Friday, November 3rd, in a road game against the Youngstown Phantoms. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:05pm CT. Skate to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>&nbsp;for individual game tickets and more information regarding the Tri-City Storm organization.&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm is presented by Viaero Wireless.

Storm ends weekend with loss to RoughRiders

Eleanor Dale’s 10th brace of the season powered the #19 Nebraska soccer team to a 3-2 victory over Ohio State on Sunday afternoon in front of 1,227 fans at Hibner Stadium.

The Huskers, who qualify for the semifinals for the second-straight season, tallied their seventh-straight victory to move to 14-2-3 overall, which marks their longest winning streak and most wins since 2013. Overall, NU led in shots (19-12), shots on goal (11-5) and corners (4-2) in route to the victory, as the Buckeyes fell to 9-7-2 overall.

Dale got the offense started for the Huskers as the nation’s leader in goals tallied her 24th finish in the 33rd minute off assists from Florence Belzile and Abbey Schwarz. Schwarz sent a cross into the goal box, which Dale met and shot into the net for the 1-0 advantage.

Ohio State’s Amanda Schlueter scored the equalizer a minute later, but the tie didn’t last long as Sarah Weber scored her 11th goal of the season in the 36th minute. Belzile sent a pass from the top of the pitch to Weber inside the 18-yard box who dribbled and scored past the Buckeye goalie.&nbsp;

After the first 45 minutes, the Huskers held the 2-1 lead, as well as the advantage in shots (11-5), shots on goal (6-2) and corner kicks (2-0).

In the second half, NU continued its offensive attack while holding OSU scoreless and to only three shots on goal. Then in the 64th minute, Dale sealed the 3-2 Husker victory with her 25th goal of the season off assists from Belzile and Jordan Zade. Belzile gathered the ball just outside the 18-yard box off a throw from Zade and sent a cross into Dale who met the ball with a header for the finish.

The Huskers tallied five assists against the Buckeyes led by Belzile who marks the first Husker to record three or more assists in a conference tournament match as she now leads the conference with 16 on the year. Additionally, eight Huskers recorded shots, led by Dale (7) and Weber (6).&nbsp;

In the goal, Sami Hauk played the entire game and recorded three saves. Hauk was joined by Lauryn Anglim, Dale, Nicola Hauk, Peterson and Weber who also played 90 minutes.&nbsp;

The second-seeded Huskers face the winner of No. 6 Rutgers and No. 3 Wisconsin on Thursday, Nov. 2 on BTN. The Big Ten Final is set for Sunday, Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. (CT).

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsEleanor Dale’s 10th brace of the season powered the #19 Nebraska soccer team to a 3-2 victory over Ohio State on Sunday afternoon in front of 1,227 fans at Hibner Stadium.The Huskers, who qualify for the semifinals for the second-straight season, tallied their seventh-straight victory to move to 14-2-3 overall, which marks their longest winning streak and most wins since 2013. Overall, NU led in shots (19-12), shots on goal (11-5) and corners (4-2) in route to the victory, as the Buckeyes fell to 9-7-2 overall.Dale got the offense started for the Huskers as the nation’s leader in goals tallied her 24th finish in the 33rd minute off assists from Florence Belzile and Abbey Schwarz. Schwarz sent a cross into the goal box, which Dale met and shot into the net for the 1-0 advantage.Ohio State’s Amanda Schlueter scored the equalizer a minute later, but the tie didn’t last long as Sarah Weber scored her 11th goal of the season in the 36th minute. Belzile sent a pass from the top of the pitch to Weber inside the 18-yard box who dribbled and scored past the Buckeye goalie.&nbsp;After the first 45 minutes, the Huskers held the 2-1 lead, as well as the advantage in shots (11-5), shots on goal (6-2) and corner kicks (2-0).In the second half, NU continued its offensive attack while holding OSU scoreless and to only three shots on goal. Then in the 64th minute, Dale sealed the 3-2 Husker victory with her 25th goal of the season off assists from Belzile and Jordan Zade. Belzile gathered the ball just outside the 18-yard box off a throw from Zade and sent a cross into Dale who met the ball with a header for the finish.The Huskers tallied five assists against the Buckeyes led by Belzile who marks the first Husker to record three or more assists in a conference tournament match as she now leads the conference with 16 on the year. Additionally, eight Huskers recorded shots, led by Dale (7) and Weber (6).&nbsp;In the goal, Sami Hauk played the entire game and recorded three saves. Hauk was joined by Lauryn Anglim, Dale, Nicola Hauk, Peterson and Weber who also played 90 minutes.&nbsp;The second-seeded Huskers face the winner of No. 6 Rutgers and No. 3 Wisconsin on Thursday, Nov. 2 on BTN. The Big Ten Final is set for Sunday, Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. (CT).

#19 NU advances to semis with 3-2 victory 

Kelli Ann Strand carded a 70 (-2) in the final round to tie for 15th in a loaded 96-player field at the Landfall Tradition in Wilmington, N.C., on Sunday.

The sophomore from Challis, Idaho, closed the three-day tournament at 213 (-3) after rounds of 72, 71 and 70. Her final round included three birdies, 14 pars and just one bogey.

Junior Lena Hassert added a strong final round with a 71 (-1), while Miu Takahashi and Michaela Vavrova both recorded 74s to help the Huskers to their best round of the tournament at 289 (+1). As a team, the Huskers tied for 14th at 880 (+16) in an 18-team field that featured 16 top-100 teams.

No. 19 Duke won the team title by tiebreaker over No. 16 Clemson, as both teams finished the 54-hole tournament at 843 (-21) on the par-72, 6,194-yard layout at the Country Club of Landfall. No. 14 UCF ended one shot back in third place at 844 (-20).

Furman's Anna Morgan took home the individual title by leading from start to finish. Morgan's final-round 69 (-3), followed rounds of 67 and 66 to put her at 202 (-14), five strokes ahead of Taylor Kehoe from Alabama and Clemson's Annabelle Pancake who tied for runner-up at 207 (-9). Kehoe closed the tournament with a final-round 64 (-8).&nbsp;

The Huskers will return to action to open the spring season at the UCF Challenge (Feb. 4-6) in Orlando, Fla.

Landfall TraditionOct. 27-29, 2023Country Club of Landfall (Wilmington, N.C.)Par 72, 6,194 Yards

Final Team StandingsT1. (19) Duke - 286-286-271=843 (-21)T1. (16) Clemson - 285-286-272=843 (-21)3. (14) UCF - 284-286-274=844 (-20)4. (25) Arizona - 288-280-287=855 (-9)5. (35) Alabama - 291-288-287=856 (-8)6. (29) Michigan State - 279-291-287=857 (-7)7. (47) Tennessee - 290-279-289=858 (-6)8. (38) Virginia Tech - 292-286-284=862 (-2)9. (56) Furman - 297-285-283=865 (+1)10. (75) Illinois - 285-290-297=872 (+8)T11. (33) Maryland - 305-287-282=874 (+10)T11 (30) SMU - 292-297-285=874 (+10)13. (13) Purdue - 294-295-288=877 (+13)T14. (59) Nebraska - 293-298-289=880 (+16)T14. (93) East Carolina - 299-288-293=880 (+16)16. Penn State - 294-291-301=886 (+22)17. UNC Wilmington - 299-299-290=888 (+24)18. (58) NC State - 297-300-292=889 (+25)

Final Individual Standings1. Anna Morgan, Furman - 67-66-69=202 (-14)T2. Taylor Kehoe, Alabama - 72-71-64=207 (-9)T2. Annabelle Pancake, Clemson - 70-71-66=207 (-9)4. Isabel Sy, Illinois - 69-73-66=208 (-8)T5. Anne Chen, Duke - 74-71-64=209 (-7)T5. Phoebe Brinker, Duke - 71-70-68=209 (-7)T7. Chloe Holder, Clemson - 76-71-63=210 (-6)T7. Paula Balanzategui, Michigan State - 68-71-71=210 (-6)T9. Isabel Amezcua, NC State - 75-71-65=211 (-5)T9. Tunrada Piddon, UCF - 70-76-65=211 (-5)T9. Pimpisa Sisutham, UCF - 69-72-70=211 (-5)T9. Erica Lee, Illinois - 70-70-71=211 (-5)

Nebraska IndividualsT15. Kelli Ann Strand - 72-71-70=213 (-3)T54. Miu Takahashi - 72-74-74=220 (+4)T64. Arden Louchheim - 75-73-76=224 (+8)T77. Lena Hassert - 75-82-71=228 (+12)T77. Michaela Vavrova - 74-80-74=228 (+12)

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsKelli Ann Strand carded a 70 (-2) in the final round to tie for 15th in a loaded 96-player field at the Landfall Tradition in Wilmington, N.C., on Sunday.The sophomore from Challis, Idaho, closed the three-day tournament at 213 (-3) after rounds of 72, 71 and 70. Her final round included three birdies, 14 pars and just one bogey.Junior Lena Hassert added a strong final round with a 71 (-1), while Miu Takahashi and Michaela Vavrova both recorded 74s to help the Huskers to their best round of the tournament at 289 (+1). As a team, the Huskers tied for 14th at 880 (+16) in an 18-team field that featured 16 top-100 teams.No. 19 Duke won the team title by tiebreaker over No. 16 Clemson, as both teams finished the 54-hole tournament at 843 (-21) on the par-72, 6,194-yard layout at the Country Club of Landfall. No. 14 UCF ended one shot back in third place at 844 (-20).Furman's Anna Morgan took home the individual title by leading from start to finish. Morgan's final-round 69 (-3), followed rounds of 67 and 66 to put her at 202 (-14), five strokes ahead of Taylor Kehoe from Alabama and Clemson's Annabelle Pancake who tied for runner-up at 207 (-9). Kehoe closed the tournament with a final-round 64 (-8).&nbsp;The Huskers will return to action to open the spring season at the UCF Challenge (Feb. 4-6) in Orlando, Fla.Landfall TraditionOct. 27-29, 2023Country Club of Landfall (Wilmington, N.C.)Par 72, 6,194 YardsFinal Team StandingsT1. (19) Duke - 286-286-271=843 (-21)T1. (16) Clemson - 285-286-272=843 (-21)3. (14) UCF - 284-286-274=844 (-20)4. (25) Arizona - 288-280-287=855 (-9)5. (35) Alabama - 291-288-287=856 (-8)6. (29) Michigan State - 279-291-287=857 (-7)7. (47) Tennessee - 290-279-289=858 (-6)8. (38) Virginia Tech - 292-286-284=862 (-2)9. (56) Furman - 297-285-283=865 (+1)10. (75) Illinois - 285-290-297=872 (+8)T11. (33) Maryland - 305-287-282=874 (+10)T11 (30) SMU - 292-297-285=874 (+10)13. (13) Purdue - 294-295-288=877 (+13)T14. (59) Nebraska - 293-298-289=880 (+16)T14. (93) East Carolina - 299-288-293=880 (+16)16. Penn State - 294-291-301=886 (+22)17. UNC Wilmington - 299-299-290=888 (+24)18. (58) NC State - 297-300-292=889 (+25)Final Individual Standings1. Anna Morgan, Furman - 67-66-69=202 (-14)T2. Taylor Kehoe, Alabama - 72-71-64=207 (-9)T2. Annabelle Pancake, Clemson - 70-71-66=207 (-9)4. Isabel Sy, Illinois - 69-73-66=208 (-8)T5. Anne Chen, Duke - 74-71-64=209 (-7)T5. Phoebe Brinker, Duke - 71-70-68=209 (-7)T7. Chloe Holder, Clemson - 76-71-63=210 (-6)T7. Paula Balanzategui, Michigan State - 68-71-71=210 (-6)T9. Isabel Amezcua, NC State - 75-71-65=211 (-5)T9. Tunrada Piddon, UCF - 70-76-65=211 (-5)T9. Pimpisa Sisutham, UCF - 69-72-70=211 (-5)T9. Erica Lee, Illinois - 70-70-71=211 (-5)Nebraska IndividualsT15. Kelli Ann Strand - 72-71-70=213 (-3)T54. Miu Takahashi - 72-74-74=220 (+4)T64. Arden Louchheim - 75-73-76=224 (+8)T77. Lena Hassert - 75-82-71=228 (+12)T77. Michaela Vavrova - 74-80-74=228 (+12)

Strand takes top-15 finish at Landfall Tradition

Coach Rhule's postgame press conference after victory over Purdue

Nebraska's Blackshirts produced another dominant performance powering Nebraska to a 31-14 win over Purdue at Memorial Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

With its third consecutive victory, Nebraska improved to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten while the Boilermakers fell to 2-6 overall and 1-4 in the conference.&nbsp;

The Blackshirts helped Nebraska build a 24-0 lead into the fourth quarter, before Purdue was able to capitalize on a pair of late turnovers to cut the lead to 24-14.&nbsp;

But Heinrich Haarberg, Emmett Johnson and the Nebraska offense mustered a game-sealing touchdown late in the fourth before defensive back Tommi Hill put the finishing touches on a big day with his second interception of the game with just under two minutes left.

Haarberg, who improved to 5-1 as a starter, finished the day 6-of-11 passing for 122 yards with two touchdown passes, while adding 57 rushing yards on 19 carries.

Johnson added 13 carries for a game-high 76 rushing yards and the only rushing touchdown of the game. Josh Fleeks and Anthony Grant each contributed 21 rushing yards, as the Huskers finished with 155 yards on 48 carries.

The defense held Purdue under 200 total yards, including 96 rushing yards on 29 carries, while limiting the Boilermakers to 99 yards on 17-of-33 passing with two interceptions. The first time since holding Michigan to less than 100 yards rushing and 100 yards passing in 2012.

The Blackshirts flexed their muscles from the start, despite starting the game deep in their own territory after the Huskers fumbled the opening kickoff.

Purdue started its first drive at the NU 32, but the Blackshirts pushed the Boilers back and forced a turnover on downs after five-play drive of minus-1 yard.

After a scoreless first quarter, Haarberg and the Huskers found their footing with a methodical 15-play, 87-yard drive that started with 4:37 left in the first quarter and ended with Haarberg's one-yard touchdown pass to tight end Thomas Fidone with 10:43 left in the second quarter to give Nebraska a 7-0 lead. Fidone's fourth touchdown grab of the season capped Nebraska's longest drive of the season in plays, yardage and time (8:52).

The Blackshirts made quick work of Purdue's ensuing drive, as Hill grabbed his first interception of the game and returned it six yards to the Nebraska 27.

One play later, the Huskers went up 14-0 with Haarberg's 73-yard touchdown pass to freshman wide receiver Jaylen Lloyd. It was Lloyd's first career touchdown.

The Husker defense shut down the Boilermakers the rest of the half to take a 14-0 lead to the locker room.

The Blackshirts forced a three-and-out on Purdue's drive to open the second half, but the Husker offense turned it over on Nebraska's first offensive play of the third quarter.

The Boilers took over at the NU 13, but the Blackshirts pushed them back to then NU 20, before Elijah Jeudy blocked Ben Freehill's 37-yard field goal attempt. Quinton Newsome scooped it up and raced 68 yards untouched into the end zone to put the Huskers in front 21-0 less than three minutes into the half. It was Nebraska's first blocked field goal for a touchdown since Nathan Gerry accomplished the feat against Minnesota in 2014.

Nebraska extended the margin to 24-0 with 12:23 left in the game on freshman Tristan Alvano's career-long 55-yard field goal.

The Blackshirts continued to play great defense, but another Nebraska turnover set Purdue up at the Husker 24. The Boilermakers finally converted with Hudson Card's 29-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Veal with 9:08 left.

Less than three minutes later, Purdue's Kydran Jenkins forced another fumble on 4th down-and-1, picked it up and ran 55 yards to paydirt to cut the margin to 24-14 with 6:24 remaining.

Johnson then ended any of Purdue's comeback hopes with his 28-yard touchdown run to cap a six-play, 48-yard drive to make it 31-14 with 3:54 left.

Nebraska won the time of possession battle 33:10-26:50, and committed fewer penalties (6-49) than Purdue (8-84).

Isaac Gifford led the Blackshirts with 10 tackles including a pair of TFLs and a breakup, while John Bullock added seven stops. Phalen Sanford pitched in six tackles, while Newsome contributed five tackles.

The Huskers return to Big Ten road action next week when they travel to Michigan State. Kickoff in East Lansing is set for 11 a.m. (CT) with live television coverage on FS1.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska's Blackshirts produced another dominant performance powering Nebraska to a 31-14 win over Purdue at Memorial Stadium on Saturday afternoon.With its third consecutive victory, Nebraska improved to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten while the Boilermakers fell to 2-6 overall and 1-4 in the conference.&nbsp;The Blackshirts helped Nebraska build a 24-0 lead into the fourth quarter, before Purdue was able to capitalize on a pair of late turnovers to cut the lead to 24-14.&nbsp;But Heinrich Haarberg, Emmett Johnson and the Nebraska offense mustered a game-sealing touchdown late in the fourth before defensive back Tommi Hill put the finishing touches on a big day with his second interception of the game with just under two minutes left.Haarberg, who improved to 5-1 as a starter, finished the day 6-of-11 passing for 122 yards with two touchdown passes, while adding 57 rushing yards on 19 carries.Johnson added 13 carries for a game-high 76 rushing yards and the only rushing touchdown of the game. Josh Fleeks and Anthony Grant each contributed 21 rushing yards, as the Huskers finished with 155 yards on 48 carries.The defense held Purdue under 200 total yards, including 96 rushing yards on 29 carries, while limiting the Boilermakers to 99 yards on 17-of-33 passing with two interceptions. The first time since holding Michigan to less than 100 yards rushing and 100 yards passing in 2012.The Blackshirts flexed their muscles from the start, despite starting the game deep in their own territory after the Huskers fumbled the opening kickoff.Purdue started its first drive at the NU 32, but the Blackshirts pushed the Boilers back and forced a turnover on downs after five-play drive of minus-1 yard.After a scoreless first quarter, Haarberg and the Huskers found their footing with a methodical 15-play, 87-yard drive that started with 4:37 left in the first quarter and ended with Haarberg's one-yard touchdown pass to tight end Thomas Fidone with 10:43 left in the second quarter to give Nebraska a 7-0 lead. Fidone's fourth touchdown grab of the season capped Nebraska's longest drive of the season in plays, yardage and time (8:52).The Blackshirts made quick work of Purdue's ensuing drive, as Hill grabbed his first interception of the game and returned it six yards to the Nebraska 27.One play later, the Huskers went up 14-0 with Haarberg's 73-yard touchdown pass to freshman wide receiver Jaylen Lloyd. It was Lloyd's first career touchdown.The Husker defense shut down the Boilermakers the rest of the half to take a 14-0 lead to the locker room.The Blackshirts forced a three-and-out on Purdue's drive to open the second half, but the Husker offense turned it over on Nebraska's first offensive play of the third quarter.The Boilers took over at the NU 13, but the Blackshirts pushed them back to then NU 20, before Elijah Jeudy blocked Ben Freehill's 37-yard field goal attempt. Quinton Newsome scooped it up and raced 68 yards untouched into the end zone to put the Huskers in front 21-0 less than three minutes into the half. It was Nebraska's first blocked field goal for a touchdown since Nathan Gerry accomplished the feat against Minnesota in 2014.Nebraska extended the margin to 24-0 with 12:23 left in the game on freshman Tristan Alvano's career-long 55-yard field goal.The Blackshirts continued to play great defense, but another Nebraska turnover set Purdue up at the Husker 24. The Boilermakers finally converted with Hudson Card's 29-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Veal with 9:08 left.Less than three minutes later, Purdue's Kydran Jenkins forced another fumble on 4th down-and-1, picked it up and ran 55 yards to paydirt to cut the margin to 24-14 with 6:24 remaining.Johnson then ended any of Purdue's comeback hopes with his 28-yard touchdown run to cap a six-play, 48-yard drive to make it 31-14 with 3:54 left.Nebraska won the time of possession battle 33:10-26:50, and committed fewer penalties (6-49) than Purdue (8-84).Isaac Gifford led the Blackshirts with 10 tackles including a pair of TFLs and a breakup, while John Bullock added seven stops. Phalen Sanford pitched in six tackles, while Newsome contributed five tackles.The Huskers return to Big Ten road action next week when they travel to Michigan State. Kickoff in East Lansing is set for 11 a.m. (CT) with live television coverage on FS1.

Big red beats Boilermakers

Coach Hoiberg's press conference after first exhibition match of the year

Coach Cook's post game press conference after 2 weekend victories

GRANT, NEB. - The Perkins County Plainsmen concluded there season this past weekend after falling to Cross County 58-6 in the 2nd round of the NSAA D-1 playoffs. The Plainsmen finished there season with a 7-3 record. Plainsmen's senior Henry Taylor joined the Kwik Stop halftime report during Friday's contest. This was Taylor's conversation during the halftime report.

Sandhills PostGRANT, NEB. - The Perkins County Plainsmen concluded there season this past weekend after falling to Cross County 58-6 in the 2nd round of the NSAA D-1 playoffs. The Plainsmen finished there season with a 7-3 record. Plainsmen's senior Henry Taylor joined the Kwik Stop halftime report during Friday's contest. This was Taylor's conversation during the halftime report.<div><iframe title="(Audio) Perkins County Senior football player Henry Taylor" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=rztr2-14e529f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

(Audio) Perkins County Senior football player Henry Taylor

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2023 NSAA STATE VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKETS

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 26 saves in his first career shutout and JJ Peterka, Casey Mittelstadt, Tyson Jost, and Rasmus Dahlin scored for the Buffalo Sabres in a 4-0 win over the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday.

Colorado closed a three-game trip with consecutive shutout losses,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-avalanche-pittsburgh-penguins-nhl-7f148015e65edd21a7059f5d3d126712">ending a record NHL streak</a>&nbsp;of 15 wins in a row on the road.

Luukkonen was Buffalo’s third goaltender to start the season, but has been thrust into action because of injuries to Devon Levi and Eric Comrie.

“It’s really a confidence booster for me and I’ve been waiting for a long time,” said Luukkonen, who won for the second time in three starts.

The victory was the Sabres’ most decisive so far in starting the season 4-5-0.

“That’s a good measuring stick for us,” said defenseman Erik Johnson, who signed with Buffalo after playing the past 13 seasons in Colorado. “That’s a team that knows how to win, that’s won, and it’s one of the top teams in the league.”

Colorado’s All-Star defenseman Cale Makar returned to the game after&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1718698576765677933">sliding into the end boards</a>&nbsp;and going to the dressing room during the second period.

Makar’s right knee was bent under his body during the collision, which came after Makar lost his balance skating toward the net and was pushed from behind by Sabres forward Kyle Okposo.

“I think a lot of it’s on me, just going back slow, no effort,” Makar said. “I tried to take a stride in front and I don’t know if I caught myself or what happened but the next thing I knew I was just sliding into the boards.”

Makar was down on the ice for a few minutes and needed a trainer’s assistance in skating toward the bench. There was no penalty on the play, which frustrated the Avalanche.

“You see one of those every once in a while, and it’s a bad spot,” Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. “Both guys skate toward the end boards, it looks to me like he gets him on the hips just above the goal line, which you’re going straight in with two guys. I just don’t think you can hit him there. So I don’t love it. I just think it’s a dangerous play.”

Colorado’s All-Star center Nathan MacKinnon received two-minute unsportsmanlike and 10-minute misconduct penalties soon after for voicing his displeasure toward the officials.

Alexandar Georgiev stopped 25 shots in his second loss for Colorado. Georgiev tied an NHL record with 12 consecutive road victories going into Thursday night’s 4-0 loss in Pittsburgh.

Jeff Skinner had two assists for Buffalo, matching Dahlin for the team lead with nine points. Skinner set up Peterka’s goal midway through the first period, and Mittelstadt’s goal in the opening minutes of the second.

Jost scored his first goal of the season — and first in four games against his former team — giving the Sabres a 3-0 lead at 8:16 into the second period.

Dahlin extended his point streak to eight games when the All-Star defenseman scored on an empty net with 3:08 remaining in the third.

The Avalanche were shut out in consecutive games for the first time since December 2016, the season before drafting Makar with the fourth pick.

Avalanche: Host St. Louis on Wednesday night.

Sabres: Visit Philadelphia on Wednesday night.

Story by the AP NewsUkko-Pekka Luukkonen made 26 saves in his first career shutout and JJ Peterka, Casey Mittelstadt, Tyson Jost, and Rasmus Dahlin scored for the Buffalo Sabres in a 4-0 win over the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday.Colorado closed a three-game trip with consecutive shutout losses,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-avalanche-pittsburgh-penguins-nhl-7f148015e65edd21a7059f5d3d126712">ending a record NHL streak</a>&nbsp;of 15 wins in a row on the road.Luukkonen was Buffalo’s third goaltender to start the season, but has been thrust into action because of injuries to Devon Levi and Eric Comrie.“It’s really a confidence booster for me and I’ve been waiting for a long time,” said Luukkonen, who won for the second time in three starts.The victory was the Sabres’ most decisive so far in starting the season 4-5-0.“That’s a good measuring stick for us,” said defenseman Erik Johnson, who signed with Buffalo after playing the past 13 seasons in Colorado. “That’s a team that knows how to win, that’s won, and it’s one of the top teams in the league.”Colorado’s All-Star defenseman Cale Makar returned to the game after&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1718698576765677933">sliding into the end boards</a>&nbsp;and going to the dressing room during the second period.Makar’s right knee was bent under his body during the collision, which came after Makar lost his balance skating toward the net and was pushed from behind by Sabres forward Kyle Okposo.“I think a lot of it’s on me, just going back slow, no effort,” Makar said. “I tried to take a stride in front and I don’t know if I caught myself or what happened but the next thing I knew I was just sliding into the boards.”Makar was down on the ice for a few minutes and needed a trainer’s assistance in skating toward the bench. There was no penalty on the play, which frustrated the Avalanche.“You see one of those every once in a while, and it’s a bad spot,” Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. “Both guys skate toward the end boards, it looks to me like he gets him on the hips just above the goal line, which you’re going straight in with two guys. I just don’t think you can hit him there. So I don’t love it. I just think it’s a dangerous play.”Colorado’s All-Star center Nathan MacKinnon received two-minute unsportsmanlike and 10-minute misconduct penalties soon after for voicing his displeasure toward the officials.Alexandar Georgiev stopped 25 shots in his second loss for Colorado. Georgiev tied an NHL record with 12 consecutive road victories going into Thursday night’s 4-0 loss in Pittsburgh.Jeff Skinner had two assists for Buffalo, matching Dahlin for the team lead with nine points. Skinner set up Peterka’s goal midway through the first period, and Mittelstadt’s goal in the opening minutes of the second.Jost scored his first goal of the season — and first in four games against his former team — giving the Sabres a 3-0 lead at 8:16 into the second period.Dahlin extended his point streak to eight games when the All-Star defenseman scored on an empty net with 3:08 remaining in the third.The Avalanche were shut out in consecutive games for the first time since December 2016, the season before drafting Makar with the fourth pick.UP NEXTAvalanche: Host St. Louis on Wednesday night.Sabres: Visit Philadelphia on Wednesday night.

Luukkonen gets 1st career shutout as Sabres beat Avalanche 4-0

The Oklahoma City Thunder are a young, talented team on the rise. The defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets showed them just how much work they have ahead to reach that elite level.

Nikola Jokic had 28 points and 14 rebounds to help the Nuggets roll past the Thunder 128-95 on Sunday for their third straight win to open the season.

“They’re defending champs, and they’re not that by fluke,” Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said. “They play the right way on both ends of the floor and they are a really good basketball team. They came to play tonight. We weren’t good enough to compete against them.”

Michael Porter Jr. had 20 points and nine rebounds and Jamal Murray added 19 points and eight assists for the Nuggets, who shot 60.2% from the field.

Denver coach Michael Malone liked the energy the Nuggets brought.

“Winning a championship, the one thing you worry about is thinking we can just show up this year and we’re going to win,” he said. “And that’s not the case. This is a brand new season. What we did last year, although magical in nature, has nothing to do with this season. And I think our players, the way they’re playing — it’s very early — but after three games, our guys are playing with the requisite mindset that you need to if you’re going to be a team that can try to win another championship.”

Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren was the No. 2 pick in the 2022 draft, but he missed last season with a foot injury. He got a loud cheer when he was introduced with the starters in his first regular-season home game and delivered a team-leading 19 points.

Gilgeous-Alexander, a first-team All-NBA selection last season, scored just seven points on 2-for-16 shooting. Denver's Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was assigned to guard him.

“You’ve got to credit guys like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who I think is an all-NBA defender," Malone said. "You know, we asked him to guard the best players 82 regular season games and 20 playoff games last year and he’s totally committed to that. He understands that that’s his greatest gift to this basketball team.”

By CLIFF BRUNT AP Sports WriterThe Oklahoma City Thunder are a young, talented team on the rise. The defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets showed them just how much work they have ahead to reach that elite level.Nikola Jokic had 28 points and 14 rebounds to help the Nuggets roll past the Thunder 128-95 on Sunday for their third straight win to open the season.“They’re defending champs, and they’re not that by fluke,” Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said. “They play the right way on both ends of the floor and they are a really good basketball team. They came to play tonight. We weren’t good enough to compete against them.”Michael Porter Jr. had 20 points and nine rebounds and Jamal Murray added 19 points and eight assists for the Nuggets, who shot 60.2% from the field.Denver coach Michael Malone liked the energy the Nuggets brought.“Winning a championship, the one thing you worry about is thinking we can just show up this year and we’re going to win,” he said. “And that’s not the case. This is a brand new season. What we did last year, although magical in nature, has nothing to do with this season. And I think our players, the way they’re playing — it’s very early — but after three games, our guys are playing with the requisite mindset that you need to if you’re going to be a team that can try to win another championship.”Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren was the No. 2 pick in the 2022 draft, but he missed last season with a foot injury. He got a loud cheer when he was introduced with the starters in his first regular-season home game and delivered a team-leading 19 points.Gilgeous-Alexander, a first-team All-NBA selection last season, scored just seven points on 2-for-16 shooting. Denver's Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was assigned to guard him.“You’ve got to credit guys like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who I think is an all-NBA defender," Malone said. "You know, we asked him to guard the best players 82 regular season games and 20 playoff games last year and he’s totally committed to that. He understands that that’s his greatest gift to this basketball team.”The Nuggets held the Thunder to 41.1% shooting overall.“We know that we have to be a team that can travel, beat the best teams in the NBA on the road,” Malone said. “And to do that, you have to bring the defense. And I felt our defense tonight was outstanding across the board.”Oklahoma City opened the season with road wins over Chicago and Cleveland and could have made an early statement with a win over Denver.Jokic made sure that didn't happen. The two-time MVP and 2023 Finals MVP dominated the first half. He had 22 points, including a layup at the buzzer, to give Denver a 69-51 edge at the break.Holmgren scored 17 points in the first half. Gilgeous-Alexander went 0 for 9 from the field and had three points before the break.UP NEXTNuggets: Host the Utah Jazz on Monday.Thunder: Host the Detroit Pistons on Monday.