Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsJoplin, Mo. – No. 4 Johnson County defeated North Platte in the second round of the NJCAA DII Women's National Championship on Tuesday, 53-42.EmmaJo Locks led the Knights with 11 points, while Nariah Golden chipped in 10 points and three steals."We battled all game against a very good Johnson County team," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "The second quarter really hurt us both offensively and defensively."Three players joined in the scoring frenzy while the Knights jumped out to a 6-3 lead. Tamia Smith connected on the first Cavalier three to tie the game at 6-6 with 3:29 to play.Johnson County stretched a 7-3 run into the second quarter, before a Dezirae Gonzales baseline jumper cut the deficit to 13-11. The Cavaliers showcased their offensive ability using a 16-2 run over the final seven minutes to take a 29-13 lead into the halftime break.Knights continued to fight as a 12-2 rally capped off by a Nariah Golden three cut the deficit to 35-27 with 3:18 to play in the third. Kara Stricklin answered with back-to-back threes to stretch the Cavalier lead back into double digits, where it would stay for the remainder of the second half.“We will regroup tonight and focus on what we have to do tomorrow against a very good Illinois Central team," Thurman said.North Platte (21-13) will continue play in the consolation bracket on Wednesday against the Cougars of Illinois Central. Tip is scheduled for 1 p.m. with local broadcast coverage on FM 98.1/AM 1410 in North Platte. A stream of the game is also available on the NJCAA Network.

Knights fall in second round to #4 Johnson County

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742305165703.jpeg" alt="Gianna Galli (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Gianna Galli (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Sophomore&nbsp;Daniella Morillas(pronounced Dan-kneel-uh&nbsp; Mor-ill-us)&nbsp;tossed a two-hit complete game shutout in game one and Nebraska Kearney scored runs in four consecutive innings in game two to take a double header from Mary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/mary/boxscore/8285">8-0</a>&nbsp;(6 innings) and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/mary/boxscore/8284">7-4,</a>&nbsp;Monday at Dryden Park.These games capped "13 games in nine days" for the Lopers (15-14). They get two days’ rest before visiting Metro State (21-7) Thursday in Denver.To start the day, Morillas (Newcastle, Calif.) gave up a single, double and walked three as UM (7-18) stranded five. She fanned four in throwing 92 pitches and improves to 3-4. At the plate, UNK finished with eight hits and drew five walks. The Lopers scored in all six innings with senior second baseman&nbsp;Rylyn Nelson&nbsp;(Sterling, Colo.) and sophomore DP&nbsp;Gianna Galli&nbsp;(Stockon, Calif.) each knocking in two with junior shortstop&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;(Wahoo) going 2 for 2 with two runs and two walks.In the night cap, the Marauders bounced back as they scored four-runs with two down in the top of the second. Nine-hole hitter and catcher Katelyn Falk (2 for 3, one run) delivered a two-run single as center fielder Emma Kimberling.However, UNK struck for three in the third, one in the fourth, two in the fifth and another in the sixth to rally. Starter&nbsp;Madeline Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) struck out five over three innings of work with freshman lefty&nbsp;Jerzie Schindler&nbsp;(Central City) blanking UM for four straight innings to earn her sixth victory. Galli (1 for 1, two RBI's), Chvatal (3 for 4, one run), and Arizona junior left fielder&nbsp;Alivia De La Cruz&nbsp;(2 for 3, one run) paced the offense.Weather permitting, the games Thursday in Denver start at 2 and 4 p.m. Central.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UNK Softball: Lopers Sweep UM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742304900658.jpeg" alt="Nevaeh Golden goes in for the layup in the second quarter against Schoolcraft to open the NJCAA DII Women’s Basketball Championship on Monday. (Daniel Stinman, North Platte Community College)" />
 <figcaption>Nevaeh Golden goes in for the layup in the second quarter against Schoolcraft to open the NJCAA DII Women’s Basketball Championship on Monday. (Daniel Stinman, North Platte Community College)</figcaption>
 </figure>NPCCJoplin, Mo. – A 21-point third quarter carried the Knights to a 69-62 win over #13 seeded Schoolcraft College to open the NJCAA DII Women’s National Championship on Monday.Jada Thompson&nbsp;tallied a career high 28 points and nine rebounds to lead the Knights. Neveah Golden scored 13 points, while Madison Cheleen chipped in 12 points off the bench."To be able to make history with this group, I am honored to be a part of this program," said head coach Jeff Thurman. "We can enjoy this accomplishment, but we still have work to do to prepare for a really good Johnson County team tomorrow."Sharon Smith tallied six of the Ocelots first eight points to double up the Knights with 5:54 remaining in the first quarter. A quick burst tied the game up at 8-8, before three straight points gave the Knights the lead inside the final three minutes.Sienna McNitt connected on a pair of free throws to halt the momentum, but a 7-2 rally over the next minute pushed the North Platte advantage to 17-12. Schoolcraft shook off the pressure and cut the margin to three at the end of the first quarter.Despite the Ocelots cutting the margin to one three times in the opening 2:50, the Knights continued to respond on the offensive end. A short 5-0 run, capped off by four straight points from Nevaeh Golden built a 30-24 lead with 3:21 remaining. Schoolcraft closed out the half with four straight points from Mia Wright to narrow the margin to 30-28 at the halftime break.&nbsp;Out of the break, the Ocelots knotted the game up on a runner by Garyana Overton. A Thompson three gave the Knights back the lead with 8:21 left in the third quarter. The margin stayed tight until a North Platte 9-1 run put the black and gold up 42-33. Knights continued to stretch their lead into the late stages of the quarter, as they built a 51-38 lead headed into the final ten minutes.A Dezirae Gonzales layup gave the Knights their largest lead of the game, but Schoolcraft would not hang out in the double-digit deficit for long. A 7-1 run cut the margin to six on a layup from Nevaeh Cable with 5:02 remaining. North Platte was able to outlast the Ocelots down the stretch to earn their first win in the national tournament in school history.North Platte (21-12) advances to the second round of the tournament to play Johnson County Community College on Tuesday. Tip against the Cavaliers is set for 9 a.m. with local broadcast coverage on FM 98.1/AM 1410 in North Platte. A stream of the game is also available on the NJCAA Network.

Knights upset #13 seeded Schoolcraft in first round

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742211405724.jpeg" alt="2025 UNK Wrestling team (UNK Athletics)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>2025 UNK Wrestling team (UNK Athletics)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The top-ranked Nebraska Kearney wrestling team scored 115.0 points to win the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/predefinedtournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=855049132">2025 NCAA Division II National Championship</a>&nbsp;Saturday night in Indianapolis.The Lopers qualified all 10 starters for the two-day meet with eight ending up as All-Americans (top eight finish). UNK basically wrapped up the team trophy with a strong second session showing Friday night and then greatly padded its point total throughout Saturday's third session.UNK previously placed first in 2008 (108.50 points), 2012 (107.0), 2013 (108.0) and 2022 (127.0) with this being the program's 23rd consecutive top eight finish. The 52-point margin of victory is the sixth best in the meet's 53-year history with Augustana (63.0) second and St. Cloud State third (57.50).Sixth-year team member&nbsp;Nick James&nbsp;(149 lbs.), redshirt senior&nbsp;Jacobi Deal&nbsp;(174 lbs.) and redshirt sophomore&nbsp;Zach Ourada&nbsp;(125 lbs.) each reached the finals and finished as National Runners Up. They are the 23rd, 24th and 25th Lopers to finish second at a D2 national meet with James now a two-time runner up.&nbsp;Ourada (Omaha Skutt) took on top-seed and fellow Omaha native Jakason Burks of Central Missouri in his finals match. Unfortunately, Burks recorded a takedown 12 seconds in and prevailed, 5-2. The story was the same at 174-pounds where Maryville's Cole Ritter moved ahead 3-0 by the 1:58 mark of the opening period. Deal (Durham, N.C.) had several nice attacks throughout but Ritter fought off each one to win, 5-1. Finally, James (Kearney H.S.) was seemingly poised to go into overtime against Cael Larson of Augustana. However, Larson managed a takedown and four-near fall points in the final 10 seconds to come out on top, 8-1.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742211274233.jpeg" alt="Kalli Ulven (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Kalli Ulven (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Freshman&nbsp;Kalli Ulven&nbsp;threw a complete game four-hit shutout and Nebraska Kearney drew 10 walks to beat Minnesota State-Moorhead,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/minnesota-state-moorhead/boxscore/8294">5-0</a>, in game one of a double header Sunday morning in Pittsburg, Kan.The Dragons (8-19) scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning and added an unearned run in the eighth to take the night cap,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/minnesota-state-moorhead/boxscore/8295">4-3</a>. The games were part of the MIAA/NSIC Crossover with the Lopers (13-14) going 3-2 in the tournament.Ulven (Blair) earned her third win by fanning three, walking none and throwing just 76 pitches. UNK gave her all the support she needed with a three-run second and then scored single runs in the third and fourth innings.Junior shortstop and leadoff hitter&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;(Wahoo) walked three times and had a bunt single with junior left fielder&nbsp;Alivia De La Cruz&nbsp;(Chandler, Ariz.) going 1 for 2 with two runs and two walks. Finally, freshman DP&nbsp;Katie Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) had an RBI double.In game two, Moorhead hit into a 6-3 double play to end the sixth but used a one-out rally to tie things at three in the seventh. An infield single, throwing error, double down the right field line and pinch hit single knotted things up. However, sophomore reliver&nbsp;Daniella Morillas&nbsp;(Newcastle, Calif.) coaxed the Dragons to hit into another double play to get out of the jam and end the inning.Senior Avery Steffen countered by recording back-to-back strikeouts in a one out, runner on third situation in the top of the eighth. The offense secured her fourth win as a bunt single moved the placed runner to third with an infield error scoring her.&nbsp;Junior third baseman&nbsp;Alyssa Fortik&nbsp;(Raymond) and senior center fielder&nbsp;Eden McNally&nbsp;(Castle Rock, Colo.) combined to go 4 for 8 with a run and three RBI’s with junior&nbsp;Madeline Janssen&nbsp;(Earlham, Ia.) allowing one earned run over the first 3.1 innings.UNK’s “13 games in nine days” stretch ends tomorrow with a double header against the Mary (N.D.) Marauders (7-15). The double header has been moved up two hours to a 12 p.m. start.

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

Story by NU Athletic Communication

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

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

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

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

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

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

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationFormer Nebraska volleyball libero Lexi Rodriguez has been named a finalist for the AAU Sullivan Award. Voting opens March 13 and will run through March 20, and fans can vote once per day. <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://bit.ly/95thAAUSullivanFinalist_Rodriguez__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!E__XaaDPOPmQM-kxee5uHL79U1og1v5Bye4LWafWMTBVNGyiAnUyq5N57PgT4WmN5kfCfoR3G1SPr2Aq6A$">Click here to vote for Lexi Rodriguez</a>.&nbsp;Six athletes, each at the top of their respective sports, have been chosen as finalists for the 95th AAU James E. Sullivan Award. Since 1930, the AAU James E. Sullivan Award has been presented to the most exceptional athlete at the collegiate, Olympic, or other similarly elite level in the United States. As well as honoring athletic excellence, the AAU Sullivan award also recognizes the chosen athlete’s character and honors their quality of leadership, citizenship and sportsmanship.Rodriguez advanced from a group of 39 semifinalists and will be present for the 95th AAU Sullivan Award ceremony on April 15 at the New York Athletic Club. The other five finalists are: Trey Augustine (Ice Hockey, Michigan State), Cooper Flagg (Basketball, Duke), Ashton Jeanty (Football, Boise State), Lee Kiefer (Fencing, USA Fencing) and Ilia Malinin (Figure Skating, U.S. Figure Skating).&nbsp;The winner will join a renowned list of recipients. Last year, Caitlin Clark became the first two-time winner of the award. Other prior winners include Michael Phelps, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Michelle Kwan, Peyton Manning, Simone Biles, Carl Lewis and Carissa Moore.Rodriguez finished her Husker career in December as a four-time AVCA All-American, a four-time All-Big Ten selection, and a three-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. She was an AVCA National Player of the Year finalist and a Honda Sport Award for Volleyball finalist in 2024, and she became the first-ever libero to be named AVCA Region Player of the Year. Rodriguez is Nebraska's all-time career leader in digs with 1,897. She is also a three-time Academic All-American, including two first-team accolades.&nbsp;Rodriguez joins four other former Huskers who have been AAU Sullivan Award finalists: Kelsey Robinson (2014-15), Mikaela Foecke (2016-17 and 2018-19), Kelly Hunter (2017-18) and Annika Albrecht (2017-18).&nbsp;

Rodriguez named finalist for AAU Sullivan Award

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationAfter a seven-dual home stand, the Nebraska women’s tennis team is hitting the road this weekend for conference matches against Northwestern and Illinois. The #58 Huskers (10-3, 0-2 Big Ten) start the trip in Evanston, Ill., to face the #38 Wildcats (8-6, 1-1 Big Ten) on Friday, March 14, at 4:30 p.m. (CT). Big Ten action will continue on Sunday, March 16, at noon (CT) against the #46 Fighting Illini (6-7, 1-1 Big Ten).Head coach German Dalmagro seeks to notch his 25th dual win at Nebraska this weekend, as well as the team’s first conference victory of the season. Husker sophomore Maria Taranova currently leads the Big Red in spring singles wins, with her 10-1 record. On the doubles court, sophomores Emma Rizzetto and Tiziana Rossini have notched five spring victories, helping the Huskers to win their nine doubles points.#38 Northwestern (8-6, 1-1 Big Ten)History: 11-2 Northwestern leads. Most recently, the Huskers fell to the Wildcats 4-3 in Lincoln.Northwestern boasts a top-40 team ranking despite having no ranked Wildcats. NU has wins over DePaul, Eastern Illinois, Georgia Tech, UIC, Milwaukee, #30 Kansas and #60 Minnesota. The Wildcats have six underclassmen on their roster, led by 26th-year head coach Claire Pollard.#46 Illinois (6-7, 1-1 Big Ten)History: 7-5 Illinois leads. In their last matchup, the Fighting Illini defeated the Big Red 4-1 in Lincoln.Illinois has one ranked singles player, No. 114 Violeta Martinez. Although the Illini currently have a losing record, the team has notable wins over Northwestern, Colorado, Iowa State and Minnesota. Most recently, the Illini opened their Big Ten play with a 4-3 win at #60 Minnesota and lost 4-1 to #17 Wisconsin on the road.The Huskers are coming off the fall individual season in which the team tallied 34 single wins. Sophomore Maria Taranova led the Big Red in fall singles wins with seven, and had a stellar freshman season in which she earned a 23-8 record, the most wins by a freshman since 2010.&nbsp;In the 2023-24 season, led by head coach German Dalmagro in his first year at NU, the Huskers went 14-11. The team accomplished two Big Ten Tournament wins for the first time in program history and senior Raphaelle Lacasse was named an All-Big Ten First Team honoree.Matches will have a live stream available and linked on huskers.com. For match and spring season updates and content, follow @HuskerWTennis on Instagram and X, or Nebraska Women’s Tennis on Facebook.

Huskers head to ranked Northwestern, Illinois

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Nebraska beach volleyball team recorded two more sweeps at Hunakai Park in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday to extend their win streak to 11 straight matches.&nbsp;

The Huskers swept Chaminade and Hawaii Pacific and now stand at 11-3 on the season. Four of the 10 duals on the day went to a third set with the Huskers prevailing in all four.

NU wraps up play in Hawaii on Friday with a 2 p.m. (CT) match against Hawaii Pacific at Hunakai Park.

1. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Grace Talpash/Leilani Ama (CHAM) 19-21, 21-13, 15-8

2. Rebekah Allick/Olivia Mauch (NEB) def. Letizia Cammillucci/Anna Stucchi (CHAM) 21-14, 21-12

3. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Mahala Ka'apuni/Nanna Inoue (CHAM) 21-16, 21-19

4. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Brooklyn Poling/Sina Bauer (CHAM) 19-21, 21-17, 15-11

5. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Kendall Rios/Kanoelehua Misipeka (CHAM) 21-11, 19-21, 15-9

1. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Kate Allan/Dana Nyugen (HPU) 21-10, 21-11

2. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Ella Schoene/Lauren Harris (HPU) 21-16, 19-21, 15-9

3. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Riley Komo/Lindsey Tapp (HPU) 21-14, 21-8

4. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Teiva Miller/Jordyn McCutcheon (HPU) 21-16, 21-19

5. Maisie Boesiger/Taylor Landfair (NEB) def. Rosie Larkin/Katherine Michelbook (HPU) 21-17, 21-15

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska beach volleyball team recorded two more sweeps at Hunakai Park in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday to extend their win streak to 11 straight matches.&nbsp;The Huskers swept Chaminade and Hawaii Pacific and now stand at 11-3 on the season. Four of the 10 duals on the day went to a third set with the Huskers prevailing in all four.NU wraps up play in Hawaii on Friday with a 2 p.m. (CT) match against Hawaii Pacific at Hunakai Park.Nebraska 5, Chaminade 01. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Grace Talpash/Leilani Ama (CHAM) 19-21, 21-13, 15-82. Rebekah Allick/Olivia Mauch (NEB) def. Letizia Cammillucci/Anna Stucchi (CHAM) 21-14, 21-123. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Mahala Ka'apuni/Nanna Inoue (CHAM) 21-16, 21-194. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Brooklyn Poling/Sina Bauer (CHAM) 19-21, 21-17, 15-115. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Kendall Rios/Kanoelehua Misipeka (CHAM) 21-11, 19-21, 15-9Nebraska 5, Hawaii Pacific 01. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Kate Allan/Dana Nyugen (HPU) 21-10, 21-112. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Ella Schoene/Lauren Harris (HPU) 21-16, 19-21, 15-93. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Riley Komo/Lindsey Tapp (HPU) 21-14, 21-84. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Teiva Miller/Jordyn McCutcheon (HPU) 21-16, 21-195. Maisie Boesiger/Taylor Landfair (NEB) def. Rosie Larkin/Katherine Michelbook (HPU) 21-17, 21-15The Nebraska beach volleyball team recorded two more sweeps at Hunakai Park in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday to extend their win streak to 11 straight matches.&nbsp;The Huskers swept Chaminade and Hawaii Pacific and now stand at 11-3 on the season. Four of the 10 duals on the day went to a third set with the Huskers prevailing in all four.NU wraps up play in Hawaii on Friday with a 2 p.m. (CT) match against Hawaii Pacific at Hunakai Park.Nebraska 5, Chaminade 01. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Grace Talpash/Leilani Ama (CHAM) 19-21, 21-13, 15-82. Rebekah Allick/Olivia Mauch (NEB) def. Letizia Cammillucci/Anna Stucchi (CHAM) 21-14, 21-123. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Mahala Ka'apuni/Nanna Inoue (CHAM) 21-16, 21-194. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Brooklyn Poling/Sina Bauer (CHAM) 19-21, 21-17, 15-115. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Kendall Rios/Kanoelehua Misipeka (CHAM) 21-11, 19-21, 15-9Nebraska 5, Hawaii Pacific 01. Bergen Reilly/Teraya Sigler (NEB) def. Kate Allan/Dana Nyugen (HPU) 21-10, 21-112. Andi Jackson/Harper Murray (NEB) def. Ella Schoene/Lauren Harris (HPU) 21-16, 19-21, 15-93. Laney Choboy/Skyler Pierce (NEB) def. Riley Komo/Lindsey Tapp (HPU) 21-14, 21-84. Campbell Flynn/Keri Leimbach (NEB) def. Teiva Miller/Jordyn McCutcheon (HPU) 21-16, 21-195. Maisie Boesiger/Taylor Landfair (NEB) def. Rosie Larkin/Katherine Michelbook (HPU) 21-17, 21-15

Huskers sweep Chaminade, Hawaii Pacific

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communication

Fishers, IND. —&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001GuZ8BZKrfvHaPUeSEcCJEHg0oYMafPfgpJaWuf0RjjEPV1y90RZpTOWDcuqfQjfuIBcdF0S8PflX-AdRVx6NOvesPWKf8dIBsI0C0Fv8gqZnEHEgH8NX8gkI3xV-9GUJixM44IEsNxF77WHWihwLk6Y_rUIFnXpyaTcJx8jRyxszZnftv9te3j3XwYrhqR75&amp;c=Lm4JQsjdy79NwozWi4H4Z_W6jYUuyzR-AnZlgljsK4wHY_lfFOsN7A==&amp;ch=f0x0we0Fgrmtgl-gP0RH0JH1GX2VSQt4XJYTV1MHEGCIdFKFaZmemA==">Omaha Supernovas</a>, Nebraska professional volleyball team and first pro volleyball champions, pulled off their second reverse sweep in franchise history Thursday night at the Fishers Event Center, defeating the Indy Ignite (8-8) in a thrilling five-set battle 21-25, 18-25, 25-20, 25-23, 15-13.

The wins marks the seventh in the last eight matches for the Supernovas (11-4) who move into sole first place in the PVF standings after the Orlando Valkyries (11-5) lost to the San Diego Mojo in another five-set thriller. After starting the season 2-2, Omaha has taken victory in nine of its last 11 matches with the only losses being to Orlando — who they face on Saturday.&nbsp;

Superstar outside hitter&nbsp;Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;finished with a team-high 17 kills with nine digs, two blocks and the team’s lone ace for 20 points. However, it was the effort from rookie outside hitter Ally Batenhorst who helped fuel the comeback, pouring in a professional career high 16 kills on a .282 clip in four sets. The Houston native — who hadn’t appeared in a match since February 16 — also added eight digs and one assist. Opposite&nbsp;Kelsie Payne&nbsp;also made a major impact off the bench with eight kills on a .421 hitting percentage. Reigning PVF Player of the Week&nbsp;Emily Londot&nbsp;contributed eight kills on the night before being replaced by Payne.&nbsp;

Both Supernovas middle blockers had excellent nights as&nbsp;Kayla Caffey&nbsp;put in her best performance of the season with eight kills (.400) and a match-high five blocks.&nbsp;Kaitlyn Hord&nbsp;ended with six kills (.385) and four blocks to extend her league-leading total to 52 on the season.&nbsp;

Setter&nbsp;Mac Podraza&nbsp;sparked the offense in her first extended action of the season when she came in for&nbsp;Natalia Valentín-Anderson&nbsp;in the second set. Podraza dished out 37 assists and four digs with her performance highlighted by the offense hitting to a tune of .455 in the decisive fifth game. Libero&nbsp;Camila Gómez&nbsp;added 15 digs and five assists.&nbsp;

Omaha hit .262 for the match while having 13 blocks with 12 of those coming in the final four sets. The Supernovas also finished with one ace.&nbsp;

Indy recorded a .240 hitting percentage with nine blocks and three aces. All-Star opposite Azhani Tealer had a historic evening for the Ignite with 31 kills (.350), nine digs and three blocks. It’s the most for a Supernovas opponent in franchise history. Two other Ignite players reached double figure kills in rookies Anna DeBeer (12) and Nina Čajić (10).

The Supernovas round out their three-match road trip with a visit to the Orlando Valkyries for a battle of the top two teams in the PVF on Saturday, March 15. First serve is set for 6 p.m. CDT at Addition Financial Arena with the match being streamed live on the PVF YouTube channel.&nbsp;

Set 1:&nbsp;Indy came firing out of the gate as DeBeer slammed down two kills and CC Crawford recorded a block to give the Ignite an early 6-1 lead. Londot ended the run with a kill to mark Omaha’s first kill of the night. Hord terminated on a middle set to jumpstart a 4-0 run for the Supernovas who got a Londot block and two Indy hitting errors to tie things up at six. Tealer unloaded on a cross court shot, and then an Omaha error gave the Ignite a two-point edge. Nuneviller responded with a pair of kills, but Tealer answered with a kill and block for a 12-9 lead. Londot posted two more kills and a Hord overpass point cut the deficit to two. Nuneviller and Valentín-Anderson put balls down to keep it at 18-16 Indy, but the Ignite put together a 3-0 run off a Tealer kill and two from DeBeer to force a Supernovas timeout at 21-16. Caffey capitalized on a middle slide out of the break. Londot tooled the block and Cooper followed with her first and only kill, but Indy stayed ahead 23-20. Londot nicked a pinky to delay set point, but a Čajić kill secured a 25-21 Ignite win.&nbsp;

The Supernovas were limited to a .233 hitting percentage with one block. Londot led the charge with a team-high seven kills and the team’s one block. Tealer went off to tie Londot with seven kills (.545) while DeBeer added five.&nbsp;

Set 2:&nbsp;A flurry of errors plagued both teams but a pair of blocks by Indy put the Ignite ahead 3-1 in the early stages. Following a service error, Batenhorst put one down the line for her first kill of the night to tie the score at three. Setter Sydney Hilley found former Wisconsin teammate Crawford in the middle for two kills to jump ahead 6-3. A DeBeer termination and another block by Crawford extended the Indy advantage to 8-4. Nuneviller found the floor for a kill, but two more points by the Ignite doubled up the Supernovas at 10-5. Back-to-back blocks from Podraza and league leader Hord capped off a 4-1 run for Omaha to get within three at 13-10. An Indy block and two more Tealer kills put the lead back to five at 16-11 Ignite at the media timeout. Podraza started to lean into the middle attack for the Supernovas as Hord and Caffey made up the next four Omaha kills. An Indy hitting error put the Supernovas deficit only at 19-16. Lydia Martyn made her first impact of the match by making up three points in a 4-0 run to put Indy up 23-16. Tealer put the finishing touches on the set with her 14th kill to lock up a 25-18 set win for the Ignite.&nbsp;

Omaha hit .129 with Nuneviller tallying three kills while Batenhorst, Hord and Caffey chipped in two apiece. The Supernovas added two blocks coming courtesy of Hord and Podraza. Indy posted a .371 hitting percentage with four blocks as Tealer once again sparked the Ignite attack with seven kills (.545) while Martyn finished with four.&nbsp;

Set 3:&nbsp;Caffey started the set with a block to fuel the Supernovas. Indy quickly answered with two points to take a 2-1 lead, but Caffey terminated on a swing and a Batenhorst kill down the line put Omaha ahead 3-2. Nuneviller created momentum at the net with a block and kill. Caffey found the floor with a middle attack and recorded her second block of the set to cap a 3-0 run to force an Indy timeout at 10-6 Supernovas. Čajić responded by serving a 3-0 run for the Ignite, which included her team-leading 12th ace to tie the set at 10. Batenhorst took the set into her own hands with back-to-back kills and a solo block to push the Omaha lead to 13-10. Tealer and Crawford cut the advantage to one with a pair of points, but another 3-0 run for the Supernovas put them ahead 16-12 at the media timeout behind kills from Batenhorst and Payne. Hord stuffed Tealer for her second block of the night forcing Indy into a timeout at 17-12. Hord found the floor on a slide as both Nuneviller and Payne followed up with kills to put the lead at 20-14. A pair of hitting errors led to a 3-0 Ignite run, but Batenhorst sneaked in a kill down the line to keep the lead at four. Caffey continued her dominant performance at the net with her third block to give the Supernovas set point, which was completed by Batenhorst for a 25-20 win.&nbsp;

Omaha hit .265 in a mostly balanced attack as Batenhorst finished with a team-high six kills. The Supernovas found their groove at the net with six blocks including three from Caffey. Indy struggled and hit .000 with nine kills and nine errors on 35 swings. The Ignite posted two blocks and one ace in the set.&nbsp;

Set 4:&nbsp;Batenhorst added the first kill of the set for the Supernovas, but Indy went off for a 4-1 rally off two Čajić kills and one apiece from Crawford and DeBeer. Omaha responded with a 7-2 run as Nuneviller led the way with four kills, plus another Caffey block for an 8-7 lead. Caffey bounced a swing off a defender for a kill and Nuneviller served her fourth ace of the season. Payne followed an Indy service error with a thunderous swing to force an Ignite timeout at 12-9 Supernovas. Omaha’s offense disappeared out of the break as an Indy block and two Tealer kills tied the set at 13. Two more Supernovas errors and another termination from Tealer put the Ignite ahead 16-14 at the media timeout. Nuneviller continued the block party for Omaha and an Indy hitting error tied the set at 17. Caffey and Payne went back-to-back on kills for a 19-18 Supernovas edge. Both teams traded blows, but a DeBeer kill put the Ignite ahead 23-22. The Louisville product followed with a service error. Valentín-Anderson came in as a serving sub, digging a rocket from Tealer. The dig found Nuneviller on the left side who put it down the line off second contact for set point. An Indy attack went wide ending a 25-23 set four win for the Supernovas to force a fifth.&nbsp;

Omaha hit .294 and had three blocks. The offense received a team-high six kills (.364) from Nuneviller while Batenhorst added four. The Ignite posted the same hitting percentage (.294) with Tealer spearheading the Indy attack as she put down seven kills on a .417 clip.&nbsp;

Set 5:&nbsp;Tealer opened the set with a kill, but Caffey and Batenhorst fired back with consecutive tallies. Tealer contributed the next two points for Indy off a kill and ace to retake the lead. Hord tied the set again with a kill. Both teams went back-and-forth before a pair of Omaha errors put the Ignite ahead 8-6 at the media timeout. Payne fired a shot that bounced off an Ignite arm for a kill, which was followed by an Indy hitting error for an 8-8 tie. Tealer and Nuneviller exchanged kills before Tealer found the floor on back-to-back attacks for an 11-9 Indy lead. The Ignite leaned on Tealer for another kill at 12-10, but a string of three-straight points — including two from Batenhorst — gave the Supernovas its second lead of the set at 13-12. An Omaha service error knotted things up again, but a successful Payne cut shot forced an Ignite timeout at 14-13 Supernovas. Despite dominating all night, Tealer’s final swing sailed wide to give Omaha a 15-13 set win to complete the reverse sweep.&nbsp;

The Supernovas saved its best offense for last, hitting at a .455 clip with 11 kills and one error on 22 swings. Batenhorst (4) and Payne (3) shared the load by combining for seven of the 11 kills. Hord added the one block in the set for Omaha. Indy struggled with a .160 hitting percentage recording four errors against its eight kills, which all came from Tealer.&nbsp;

Story by Omaha Supernovas CommunicationFishers, IND. —&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001GuZ8BZKrfvHaPUeSEcCJEHg0oYMafPfgpJaWuf0RjjEPV1y90RZpTOWDcuqfQjfuIBcdF0S8PflX-AdRVx6NOvesPWKf8dIBsI0C0Fv8gqZnEHEgH8NX8gkI3xV-9GUJixM44IEsNxF77WHWihwLk6Y_rUIFnXpyaTcJx8jRyxszZnftv9te3j3XwYrhqR75&amp;c=Lm4JQsjdy79NwozWi4H4Z_W6jYUuyzR-AnZlgljsK4wHY_lfFOsN7A==&amp;ch=f0x0we0Fgrmtgl-gP0RH0JH1GX2VSQt4XJYTV1MHEGCIdFKFaZmemA==">Omaha Supernovas</a>, Nebraska professional volleyball team and first pro volleyball champions, pulled off their second reverse sweep in franchise history Thursday night at the Fishers Event Center, defeating the Indy Ignite (8-8) in a thrilling five-set battle 21-25, 18-25, 25-20, 25-23, 15-13.The wins marks the seventh in the last eight matches for the Supernovas (11-4) who move into sole first place in the PVF standings after the Orlando Valkyries (11-5) lost to the San Diego Mojo in another five-set thriller. After starting the season 2-2, Omaha has taken victory in nine of its last 11 matches with the only losses being to Orlando — who they face on Saturday.&nbsp;Superstar outside hitter&nbsp;Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;finished with a team-high 17 kills with nine digs, two blocks and the team’s lone ace for 20 points. However, it was the effort from rookie outside hitter Ally Batenhorst who helped fuel the comeback, pouring in a professional career high 16 kills on a .282 clip in four sets. The Houston native — who hadn’t appeared in a match since February 16 — also added eight digs and one assist. Opposite&nbsp;Kelsie Payne&nbsp;also made a major impact off the bench with eight kills on a .421 hitting percentage. Reigning PVF Player of the Week&nbsp;Emily Londot&nbsp;contributed eight kills on the night before being replaced by Payne.&nbsp;Both Supernovas middle blockers had excellent nights as&nbsp;Kayla Caffey&nbsp;put in her best performance of the season with eight kills (.400) and a match-high five blocks.&nbsp;Kaitlyn Hord&nbsp;ended with six kills (.385) and four blocks to extend her league-leading total to 52 on the season.&nbsp;Setter&nbsp;Mac Podraza&nbsp;sparked the offense in her first extended action of the season when she came in for&nbsp;Natalia Valentín-Anderson&nbsp;in the second set. Podraza dished out 37 assists and four digs with her performance highlighted by the offense hitting to a tune of .455 in the decisive fifth game. Libero&nbsp;Camila Gómez&nbsp;added 15 digs and five assists.&nbsp;Omaha hit .262 for the match while having 13 blocks with 12 of those coming in the final four sets. The Supernovas also finished with one ace.&nbsp;Indy recorded a .240 hitting percentage with nine blocks and three aces. All-Star opposite Azhani Tealer had a historic evening for the Ignite with 31 kills (.350), nine digs and three blocks. It’s the most for a Supernovas opponent in franchise history. Two other Ignite players reached double figure kills in rookies Anna DeBeer (12) and Nina Čajić (10).The Supernovas round out their three-match road trip with a visit to the Orlando Valkyries for a battle of the top two teams in the PVF on Saturday, March 15. First serve is set for 6 p.m. CDT at Addition Financial Arena with the match being streamed live on the PVF YouTube channel.&nbsp;Key Notes<ul>
 <li>Thursday’s reverse sweep is the second in franchise history. The first being against the San Diego Mojo in the PVF Semifinals on May 15, 2024 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha. The Supernovas move to 6-5 all-time in five set matches.&nbsp;</li><li>Brooke Nuneviller tallied her 500th career kill with the Supernovas. Her nine digs brings her Omaha career total to 499. With one dig on Saturday, Nuneviller will become the first player in PVF history to have 500 kills and 500 digs.&nbsp;</li><li>Natalia Valentín-Anderson reached the 1,000-assist mark with the franchise. She finished with 13 assists and four digs on the night.&nbsp;</li><li>Omaha extended its own franchise record with a fifth-straight road win. The Supernovas own the best road record in the league this season at 7-2. Orlando (4-3) is the only other team in the PVF to have a road record over .500.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Set 1:&nbsp;Indy came firing out of the gate as DeBeer slammed down two kills and CC Crawford recorded a block to give the Ignite an early 6-1 lead. Londot ended the run with a kill to mark Omaha’s first kill of the night. Hord terminated on a middle set to jumpstart a 4-0 run for the Supernovas who got a Londot block and two Indy hitting errors to tie things up at six. Tealer unloaded on a cross court shot, and then an Omaha error gave the Ignite a two-point edge. Nuneviller responded with a pair of kills, but Tealer answered with a kill and block for a 12-9 lead. Londot posted two more kills and a Hord overpass point cut the deficit to two. Nuneviller and Valentín-Anderson put balls down to keep it at 18-16 Indy, but the Ignite put together a 3-0 run off a Tealer kill and two from DeBeer to force a Supernovas timeout at 21-16. Caffey capitalized on a middle slide out of the break. Londot tooled the block and Cooper followed with her first and only kill, but Indy stayed ahead 23-20. Londot nicked a pinky to delay set point, but a Čajić kill secured a 25-21 Ignite win.&nbsp;The Supernovas were limited to a .233 hitting percentage with one block. Londot led the charge with a team-high seven kills and the team’s one block. Tealer went off to tie Londot with seven kills (.545) while DeBeer added five.&nbsp;Set 2:&nbsp;A flurry of errors plagued both teams but a pair of blocks by Indy put the Ignite ahead 3-1 in the early stages. Following a service error, Batenhorst put one down the line for her first kill of the night to tie the score at three. Setter Sydney Hilley found former Wisconsin teammate Crawford in the middle for two kills to jump ahead 6-3. A DeBeer termination and another block by Crawford extended the Indy advantage to 8-4. Nuneviller found the floor for a kill, but two more points by the Ignite doubled up the Supernovas at 10-5. Back-to-back blocks from Podraza and league leader Hord capped off a 4-1 run for Omaha to get within three at 13-10. An Indy block and two more Tealer kills put the lead back to five at 16-11 Ignite at the media timeout. Podraza started to lean into the middle attack for the Supernovas as Hord and Caffey made up the next four Omaha kills. An Indy hitting error put the Supernovas deficit only at 19-16. Lydia Martyn made her first impact of the match by making up three points in a 4-0 run to put Indy up 23-16. Tealer put the finishing touches on the set with her 14th kill to lock up a 25-18 set win for the Ignite.&nbsp;Omaha hit .129 with Nuneviller tallying three kills while Batenhorst, Hord and Caffey chipped in two apiece. The Supernovas added two blocks coming courtesy of Hord and Podraza. Indy posted a .371 hitting percentage with four blocks as Tealer once again sparked the Ignite attack with seven kills (.545) while Martyn finished with four.&nbsp;Set 3:&nbsp;Caffey started the set with a block to fuel the Supernovas. Indy quickly answered with two points to take a 2-1 lead, but Caffey terminated on a swing and a Batenhorst kill down the line put Omaha ahead 3-2. Nuneviller created momentum at the net with a block and kill. Caffey found the floor with a middle attack and recorded her second block of the set to cap a 3-0 run to force an Indy timeout at 10-6 Supernovas. Čajić responded by serving a 3-0 run for the Ignite, which included her team-leading 12th ace to tie the set at 10. Batenhorst took the set into her own hands with back-to-back kills and a solo block to push the Omaha lead to 13-10. Tealer and Crawford cut the advantage to one with a pair of points, but another 3-0 run for the Supernovas put them ahead 16-12 at the media timeout behind kills from Batenhorst and Payne. Hord stuffed Tealer for her second block of the night forcing Indy into a timeout at 17-12. Hord found the floor on a slide as both Nuneviller and Payne followed up with kills to put the lead at 20-14. A pair of hitting errors led to a 3-0 Ignite run, but Batenhorst sneaked in a kill down the line to keep the lead at four. Caffey continued her dominant performance at the net with her third block to give the Supernovas set point, which was completed by Batenhorst for a 25-20 win.&nbsp;Omaha hit .265 in a mostly balanced attack as Batenhorst finished with a team-high six kills. The Supernovas found their groove at the net with six blocks including three from Caffey. Indy struggled and hit .000 with nine kills and nine errors on 35 swings. The Ignite posted two blocks and one ace in the set.&nbsp;Set 4:&nbsp;Batenhorst added the first kill of the set for the Supernovas, but Indy went off for a 4-1 rally off two Čajić kills and one apiece from Crawford and DeBeer. Omaha responded with a 7-2 run as Nuneviller led the way with four kills, plus another Caffey block for an 8-7 lead. Caffey bounced a swing off a defender for a kill and Nuneviller served her fourth ace of the season. Payne followed an Indy service error with a thunderous swing to force an Ignite timeout at 12-9 Supernovas. Omaha’s offense disappeared out of the break as an Indy block and two Tealer kills tied the set at 13. Two more Supernovas errors and another termination from Tealer put the Ignite ahead 16-14 at the media timeout. Nuneviller continued the block party for Omaha and an Indy hitting error tied the set at 17. Caffey and Payne went back-to-back on kills for a 19-18 Supernovas edge. Both teams traded blows, but a DeBeer kill put the Ignite ahead 23-22. The Louisville product followed with a service error. Valentín-Anderson came in as a serving sub, digging a rocket from Tealer. The dig found Nuneviller on the left side who put it down the line off second contact for set point. An Indy attack went wide ending a 25-23 set four win for the Supernovas to force a fifth.&nbsp;Omaha hit .294 and had three blocks. The offense received a team-high six kills (.364) from Nuneviller while Batenhorst added four. The Ignite posted the same hitting percentage (.294) with Tealer spearheading the Indy attack as she put down seven kills on a .417 clip.&nbsp;Set 5:&nbsp;Tealer opened the set with a kill, but Caffey and Batenhorst fired back with consecutive tallies. Tealer contributed the next two points for Indy off a kill and ace to retake the lead. Hord tied the set again with a kill. Both teams went back-and-forth before a pair of Omaha errors put the Ignite ahead 8-6 at the media timeout. Payne fired a shot that bounced off an Ignite arm for a kill, which was followed by an Indy hitting error for an 8-8 tie. Tealer and Nuneviller exchanged kills before Tealer found the floor on back-to-back attacks for an 11-9 Indy lead. The Ignite leaned on Tealer for another kill at 12-10, but a string of three-straight points — including two from Batenhorst — gave the Supernovas its second lead of the set at 13-12. An Omaha service error knotted things up again, but a successful Payne cut shot forced an Ignite timeout at 14-13 Supernovas. Despite dominating all night, Tealer’s final swing sailed wide to give Omaha a 15-13 set win to complete the reverse sweep.&nbsp;The Supernovas saved its best offense for last, hitting at a .455 clip with 11 kills and one error on 22 swings. Batenhorst (4) and Payne (3) shared the load by combining for seven of the 11 kills. Hord added the one block in the set for Omaha. Indy struggled with a .160 hitting percentage recording four errors against its eight kills, which all came from Tealer.&nbsp;

Supernovas stun Ignite with Second-Ever Reverse Sweep, Vault into First Place

Listen/Watch games, previously broadcast on Flatrock 100.7, courtesy of <a href="http://www.npkubota.com">NP Kubota</a>. (home games at Prairie View gym are available to re-watch via HUDL with Flatrock 100.7 Audio)

<a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ne/ogallala/organization/11948/ogallala-high-school/watch?b=QnJvYWRjYXN0MjczNTY2MA%3D%3D">WATCH Ogallala vs. McCook game from Sept 9, 2025. Indians won 3-0</a>

Listen/Watch games, previously broadcast on Flatrock 100.7, courtesy of <a href="http://www.npkubota.com">NP Kubota</a>. (home games at Prairie View gym are available to re-watch via HUDL with Flatrock 100.7 Audio)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756931709391.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Volleyball 2025 Season</h2><a href="https://fan.hudl.com/usa/ne/ogallala/organization/11948/ogallala-high-school/watch?b=QnJvYWRjYXN0MjczNTY2MA%3D%3D">WATCH Ogallala vs. McCook game from Sept 9, 2025. Indians won 3-0</a><div><iframe title="Volleyball Replay - Ogallala 3-1 over Chase County (August 28, 2025)" 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=8s2j2-195351f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Volleyball Replay - Ogallala 3-0 sweep of Hershey on Sept 2, 2025" 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=nvj4b-1953541-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

INDIAN Replay (Ogallala Radio Broadcasts)

Nebraska completed its midweek sweep of Wichita State with a 5-4 win over the Shockers on Wednesday night at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.

Nebraska (7-8) scored five runs on five hits, while Wichita State (6-11) totaled four runs and nine hits.

Gabe Swansen was 1-for-4 with two RBI, and Max Buettenback went 1-for-1 with a solo homer. Cayden Brumbaugh had an RBI double, while Case Sanderson and Devin Nunez had one hit each.

TJ Coats pitched two innings, allowed two runs on two hits with three strikeouts and a pair of walks. Colin Nowaczyk tossed 2.1 innings in relief and gave up one run on three hits while striking out two with two walks.

Gavin Blachowicz picked up his first career win with 1.1 shutout innings. Jalen Worthley pitched 1.1 innings, allowing one run on two hits with a pair of punchouts. Drew Christo pitched a shutout frame, followed by Luke Broderick shutting down the Shockers in the ninth for his third save of the season.

The Husker offense went to work early, plating four runs on two hits in the bottom of the first inning. Back-to-back walks to Sanderson and Will Jesske set the table for Brumbaugh’s RBI double down the left-field line that brought home Sanderson.

Cael Frost drew a four-pitch walk, while Swansen ripped a two-RBI single through the left side to score Jesske and Brumbaugh and extend the lead to three. An RBI fielder’s choice from Rhett Stokes to shortstop allowed Frost to score and stretched the NU lead to 4-0 through the first inning.

A walk and a hit batter put a pair of runners on for the Shockers in the top of the second, while a sacrifice fly to center plated Wichita State’s first run of the night. A two-out RBI single brought WSU within 4-2 through two innings.

Wichita State made it a one-run game in the top of the fifth with a pair of singles, including an RBI single to right field that made it a 4-3 game.

Nebraska immediately got the run back in the bottom of the fifth when Buettenback blasted a pinch-hit, 403-foot solo shot off the videoboard behind the home run terrace in right field.

A pair of leadoff singles in the top of the eighth, followed by back-to-back sacrifice hits brought the Shockers within 5-4. With a runner on third and two outs, Christo drew a swinging strikeout to keep the lead for the Huskers.

Broderick worked around a leadoff walk in the top of the ninth, surrendering a sacrifice bunt and striking out the final two batters to clinch the 5-4 win for Nebraska on Wednesday night.

Nebraska returns to Big Ten play this weekend, as the Huskers venture to Los Angeles for a three-game series at UCLA. First pitch on Friday between the Big Red and Bruins is set for 7 p.m. CT on B1G+.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska completed its midweek sweep of Wichita State with a 5-4 win over the Shockers on Wednesday night at Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.Nebraska (7-8) scored five runs on five hits, while Wichita State (6-11) totaled four runs and nine hits.Gabe Swansen was 1-for-4 with two RBI, and Max Buettenback went 1-for-1 with a solo homer. Cayden Brumbaugh had an RBI double, while Case Sanderson and Devin Nunez had one hit each.TJ Coats pitched two innings, allowed two runs on two hits with three strikeouts and a pair of walks. Colin Nowaczyk tossed 2.1 innings in relief and gave up one run on three hits while striking out two with two walks.Gavin Blachowicz picked up his first career win with 1.1 shutout innings. Jalen Worthley pitched 1.1 innings, allowing one run on two hits with a pair of punchouts. Drew Christo pitched a shutout frame, followed by Luke Broderick shutting down the Shockers in the ninth for his third save of the season.The Husker offense went to work early, plating four runs on two hits in the bottom of the first inning. Back-to-back walks to Sanderson and Will Jesske set the table for Brumbaugh’s RBI double down the left-field line that brought home Sanderson.Cael Frost drew a four-pitch walk, while Swansen ripped a two-RBI single through the left side to score Jesske and Brumbaugh and extend the lead to three. An RBI fielder’s choice from Rhett Stokes to shortstop allowed Frost to score and stretched the NU lead to 4-0 through the first inning.A walk and a hit batter put a pair of runners on for the Shockers in the top of the second, while a sacrifice fly to center plated Wichita State’s first run of the night. A two-out RBI single brought WSU within 4-2 through two innings.Wichita State made it a one-run game in the top of the fifth with a pair of singles, including an RBI single to right field that made it a 4-3 game.Nebraska immediately got the run back in the bottom of the fifth when Buettenback blasted a pinch-hit, 403-foot solo shot off the videoboard behind the home run terrace in right field.A pair of leadoff singles in the top of the eighth, followed by back-to-back sacrifice hits brought the Shockers within 5-4. With a runner on third and two outs, Christo drew a swinging strikeout to keep the lead for the Huskers.Broderick worked around a leadoff walk in the top of the ninth, surrendering a sacrifice bunt and striking out the final two batters to clinch the 5-4 win for Nebraska on Wednesday night.Nebraska returns to Big Ten play this weekend, as the Huskers venture to Los Angeles for a three-game series at UCLA. First pitch on Friday between the Big Red and Bruins is set for 7 p.m. CT on B1G+.

Huskers Complete Midweek Sweep of Wichita State

#7 Dundy County Stratton 40, Howells-Dodge 54

#6 North Platte St Patrick's 53, Bancroft-Rosalie 59

<h2>Boys</h2>#4 Cozad 45, Ashland-Greenwood 60#2 Ogallala 45, Doniphan-Trumbull 57#7 Dundy County Stratton 40, Howells-Dodge 54#6 North Platte St Patrick's 53, Bancroft-Rosalie 59

Area NSAA Boy's State Basketball results from 3-12

(North Platte, Nebraska) – Visit North Platte is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated Flatrock Pro/Am hosted by Disc Gauntlet. This exciting disc golf tournament, sanctioned by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), is set to take place on March 15th and 16th, 2025, at the Cody Park Disc Golf Course and River’s Edge Golf Course.

The Flatrock Pro/Am will be a captivating two-day, three-round B-tier tournament featuring both professional and amateur players. On March 15th, competitors will play the first two rounds, with the third and final round held on March 16th for select divisions. All participants must be current PDGA members; those who are not yet members can join during the registration process.

“We are incredibly excited to host the Flatrock Pro/Am here in North Platte,” said Lisa Burke, Executive Director of Visit North Platte. “This tournament is an excellent opportunity to showcase our vibrant community, while also growing the sport of disc golf in Nebraska and the surrounding region. With over 100 athletes competing, it will be an event that continues to grow for years to come.”

The tournament promises to bring top-tier talent and competition to North Platte, with players vying for victory on the scenic and challenging Cody Park Disc Golf Course. The Flatrock Pro/Am will not only highlight the impressive skills of its participants but will also celebrate the dynamic and rapidly growing disc golf community.

“We look forward to another fantastic event in 2025, continuing our tradition of hosting world-class disc golf tournaments in North Platte,” Burke added.

For more information about the tournament schedule, registration details, and more, please visit visitnorthplatte.com or pdga.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741717374151.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Visit North Platte(North Platte, Nebraska) – Visit North Platte is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated Flatrock Pro/Am hosted by Disc Gauntlet. This exciting disc golf tournament, sanctioned by the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA), is set to take place on March 15th and 16th, 2025, at the Cody Park Disc Golf Course and River’s Edge Golf Course.The Flatrock Pro/Am will be a captivating two-day, three-round B-tier tournament featuring both professional and amateur players. On March 15th, competitors will play the first two rounds, with the third and final round held on March 16th for select divisions. All participants must be current PDGA members; those who are not yet members can join during the registration process.“We are incredibly excited to host the Flatrock Pro/Am here in North Platte,” said Lisa Burke, Executive Director of Visit North Platte. “This tournament is an excellent opportunity to showcase our vibrant community, while also growing the sport of disc golf in Nebraska and the surrounding region. With over 100 athletes competing, it will be an event that continues to grow for years to come.”The tournament promises to bring top-tier talent and competition to North Platte, with players vying for victory on the scenic and challenging Cody Park Disc Golf Course. The Flatrock Pro/Am will not only highlight the impressive skills of its participants but will also celebrate the dynamic and rapidly growing disc golf community.“We look forward to another fantastic event in 2025, continuing our tradition of hosting world-class disc golf tournaments in North Platte,” Burke added.For more information about the tournament schedule, registration details, and more, please visit visitnorthplatte.com or pdga.com.

Disc Gauntlet to Host Flatrock Pro/Am Disc Golf Tournament Sponsored by Visit North Platte

After spending the last 15 years at North Platte High School coaching the Wrestling program Coach Dale Hall is back on the mat this time as the new Head Coach for the Hershey Panthers. Hall led North Platte High School to one of its best-ever Wrestling finishes in 2021, where they finished runner-up, and is looking to bring that success to Hershey.&nbsp;

In addition to his duties as the new Wrestling Coach, he will also Coach the Girls' Tennis Team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741655372584.jpeg" alt="Hershey Panthers new Head Coach Dale Hall" />
 <figcaption>Hershey Panthers new Head Coach Dale Hall</figcaption>
 </figure>After spending the last 15 years at North Platte High School coaching the Wrestling program Coach Dale Hall is back on the mat this time as the new Head Coach for the Hershey Panthers. Hall led North Platte High School to one of its best-ever Wrestling finishes in 2021, where they finished runner-up, and is looking to bring that success to Hershey.&nbsp;In addition to his duties as the new Wrestling Coach, he will also Coach the Girls' Tennis Team.

(Breaking) Hershey High School welcomes Dale Hall as Head Wrestling Coach

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Freshman southpaw&nbsp;Jerzie Schindler&nbsp;threw five strong innings and junior shortstop&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;had an RBI triple to help Nebraska Kearney salvage the second game of a double header with Central Missouri,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/central-missouri/boxscore/8180">3-2</a>, Sunday afternoon at Dryden Park.

This is MIAA “Opening Weekend” with these games pushed back two days due to weather and field conditions.

After the Jennies (9-7) hit three homers to take game one,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/central-missouri/boxscore/8179">9-0 in five innings</a>, the Lopers rebounded behind Schindler (Central City). She improved to 5-2 by limiting UCM to one run over the first five innings with sophomore&nbsp;Daniela Morillas&nbsp;(Newcastle, Calif.) working out of two jams to pick up her second save.

Schindler walked two and gave up six singles with UCM stranded nine on the base paths. That included leaving the bags full in the second and stranding two in the fourth. At the plate, Colorado senior second baseman&nbsp;Rylyn Nelson&nbsp;(1 for 2, walk) laced an RBI double to right center to make it 1-0 in the first. UNK added two insurance runs in the fifth after Arizona junior left fielder Alivia De La Cruz led off with a single and Chvatal brought her home with a line drive triple to left center. She then scored via wild pitch.

In the top of the sixth, the Jens had runners at second and third with one down when leadoff hitter and center fielder Lea Blackman hit a grounder to third. Junior&nbsp;Alyissa Fortik&nbsp;(Raymond) threw home for the out with sophomore catcher&nbsp;Gianna Galli&nbsp;(Stockton, Calif.) then throwing down to second to catch Blackman in a run down. Finally, UCM had a sac fly in the seventh, but a ground out ended the game.

Emily Brouse (3-2) threw a five-inning one-hitter in game one. She worked around five walks thanks to four K’s with second baseman Jadyn Sheffield (3 for 3, three runs &amp; two RBI’s)&nbsp; pacing a 12-hit attack.

UNK (9-9) hosts Missouri Western State Monday at 12 and 2 p.m. The Griffons (11-6) split with Fort Hays State today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741614821995.jpeg" alt="Jerzie&nbsp;Schnidler (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Jerzie&nbsp;Schnidler (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Freshman southpaw&nbsp;Jerzie Schindler&nbsp;threw five strong innings and junior shortstop&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;had an RBI triple to help Nebraska Kearney salvage the second game of a double header with Central Missouri,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/central-missouri/boxscore/8180">3-2</a>, Sunday afternoon at Dryden Park.This is MIAA “Opening Weekend” with these games pushed back two days due to weather and field conditions.After the Jennies (9-7) hit three homers to take game one,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2025/central-missouri/boxscore/8179">9-0 in five innings</a>, the Lopers rebounded behind Schindler (Central City). She improved to 5-2 by limiting UCM to one run over the first five innings with sophomore&nbsp;Daniela Morillas&nbsp;(Newcastle, Calif.) working out of two jams to pick up her second save.Schindler walked two and gave up six singles with UCM stranded nine on the base paths. That included leaving the bags full in the second and stranding two in the fourth. At the plate, Colorado senior second baseman&nbsp;Rylyn Nelson&nbsp;(1 for 2, walk) laced an RBI double to right center to make it 1-0 in the first. UNK added two insurance runs in the fifth after Arizona junior left fielder Alivia De La Cruz led off with a single and Chvatal brought her home with a line drive triple to left center. She then scored via wild pitch.In the top of the sixth, the Jens had runners at second and third with one down when leadoff hitter and center fielder Lea Blackman hit a grounder to third. Junior&nbsp;Alyissa Fortik&nbsp;(Raymond) threw home for the out with sophomore catcher&nbsp;Gianna Galli&nbsp;(Stockton, Calif.) then throwing down to second to catch Blackman in a run down. Finally, UCM had a sac fly in the seventh, but a ground out ended the game.Emily Brouse (3-2) threw a five-inning one-hitter in game one. She worked around five walks thanks to four K’s with second baseman Jadyn Sheffield (3 for 3, three runs &amp; two RBI’s)&nbsp; pacing a 12-hit attack.UNK (9-9) hosts Missouri Western State Monday at 12 and 2 p.m. The Griffons (11-6) split with Fort Hays State today.

UNK Softball: Lopers Split Home Opener with UCM; Griffs Up Next

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte finishes the weekend road trip with a doubleheader loss to Central Community College on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Raiders tacked on one run in the bottom of the first inning, before stretching their lead to 11-0 with two runs in the third and eight in the fourth.

North Platte avoided the shutout with a run in the top of the fifth inning. Back-to-back errors by the Central shortstop put two North Platte runners at first and second. A fielder’s choice moved Samantha Seger to third, before a ball hit on the right side of the infield plated the baserunner from third.

Sheena Smith pitched all four innings for the Knights allowing 11 runs on nine hits and struck out two in game one.

A Braelyn Sindelar home run put the Raiders out front in the bottom of first inning, before the Knights exploded for five runs in the top of the third.

Byanka Tyan drew a walk to open the inning before back-to-back singles loaded the bases with no one down. Alieze Moreno waited patiently in the box and on the seventh pitch of the at bat drew a walk to knot the game at 1-1.

A single by Victoria Arellano plated two baserunners to stretch the North Platte lead to 3-1. North Platte would go on to tally two more runs in the inning to stretch their lead to four. Central fought back with three runs in the bottom of the third, before regaining the lead with three runs in the fourth.

North Platte managed one run in the top of the sixth inning on an RBI single by Arellano. Central added one more run in the bottom of the frame, while holding off the Knights in the top of the seventh to earn the win.

Sarah Perez surrendered four runs on three hits in just three innings of work in the circle. Arellano came on in relief but allowed four runs on seven hits in the loss.

North Platte (0-10, 0-4 Region IX) will return to the Dowhower Sports Complex for a doubleheader with Dakota College at Bottineau on Saturday beginning at noon.

NPCC AthleticsNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte finishes the weekend road trip with a doubleheader loss to Central Community College on Sunday.&nbsp;Central 11 North Platte 1The Raiders tacked on one run in the bottom of the first inning, before stretching their lead to 11-0 with two runs in the third and eight in the fourth.North Platte avoided the shutout with a run in the top of the fifth inning. Back-to-back errors by the Central shortstop put two North Platte runners at first and second. A fielder’s choice moved Samantha Seger to third, before a ball hit on the right side of the infield plated the baserunner from third.Sheena Smith pitched all four innings for the Knights allowing 11 runs on nine hits and struck out two in game one.Central 8 North Platte 6A Braelyn Sindelar home run put the Raiders out front in the bottom of first inning, before the Knights exploded for five runs in the top of the third.Byanka Tyan drew a walk to open the inning before back-to-back singles loaded the bases with no one down. Alieze Moreno waited patiently in the box and on the seventh pitch of the at bat drew a walk to knot the game at 1-1.A single by Victoria Arellano plated two baserunners to stretch the North Platte lead to 3-1. North Platte would go on to tally two more runs in the inning to stretch their lead to four. Central fought back with three runs in the bottom of the third, before regaining the lead with three runs in the fourth.North Platte managed one run in the top of the sixth inning on an RBI single by Arellano. Central added one more run in the bottom of the frame, while holding off the Knights in the top of the seventh to earn the win.Sarah Perez surrendered four runs on three hits in just three innings of work in the circle. Arellano came on in relief but allowed four runs on seven hits in the loss.North Platte (0-10, 0-4 Region IX) will return to the Dowhower Sports Complex for a doubleheader with Dakota College at Bottineau on Saturday beginning at noon.

North Platte falls short in doubleheader against Central

Lincoln, Ne - First round girls games at the Nebraska State Basketball Tournament are in the books after Thursday's games. Area team Gothenburg plays Lincoln Christian Friday morning at 9am in the Class C1 Semifinals. Winner plays for the state championship on Saturday at 11am.

On the other side of the C1 girls bracket is Minden and Milford.

In Class A today, 1 Millard West vs. 4 Lincoln North Star and #7 Omaha West Side vs. 6 Bellevue West

In Class B today, 1 Omaha Skutt Catholic vs. 4 Bennington and #7 Gretna East vs. 3 Waverly

In Class C2, 8 Guardian Angels Central Catholic vs. 4 Elkhorn Valley and 2 Crofton vs. 3 Oakland Craig

In Class D1, 1 Pender vs. 5 Alma and 2 Elm Creek vs. 6 Cedar Catholic

In Class D2, 8 Wilcox-Hildreth vs. 4 Dorchester and 2 Falls City Sacred Heart vs. 6 Archangels Catholic

Lincoln, Ne - First round girls games at the Nebraska State Basketball Tournament are in the books after Thursday's games. Area team Gothenburg plays Lincoln Christian Friday morning at 9am in the Class C1 Semifinals. Winner plays for the state championship on Saturday at 11am.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGothenburgSwedes%2Fposts%2Fpfbid01B2RJSLctcx4AatboLLgwQTQkpZ8z7pB8GrkMSrJQJMa6b2JKpgTruxb9VMB4gWtl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="400" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>On the other side of the C1 girls bracket is Minden and Milford.In Class A today, 1 Millard West vs. 4 Lincoln North Star and #7 Omaha West Side vs. 6 Bellevue WestIn Class B today, 1 Omaha Skutt Catholic vs. 4 Bennington and #7 Gretna East vs. 3 WaverlyIn Class C2, 8 Guardian Angels Central Catholic vs. 4 Elkhorn Valley and 2 Crofton vs. 3 Oakland CraigIn Class D1, 1 Pender vs. 5 Alma and 2 Elm Creek vs. 6 Cedar CatholicIn Class D2, 8 Wilcox-Hildreth vs. 4 Dorchester and 2 Falls City Sacred Heart vs. 6 Archangels Catholic

Semifinal Friday from Girls State Basketball Tournament in Lincoln

Indianapolis&nbsp;- Big Ten All-Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/britt-prince">Britt Prince</a>&nbsp;scored a team-high 17 points, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/jessica-petrie">Jessica Petrie</a>&nbsp;scored nine points in the fourth quarter to help the Huskers rally from a nine-point third-quarter deficit for a 74-70 win over Illinois in the TIAA Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament second round on Thursday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

With its fourth victory in the last five games, 10th-seeded Nebraska improved to 21-10 overall (10-8 Big Ten) and advanced to Friday's quarterfinal against No. 2 seed UCLA. Tip-off against the AP No. 4 Bruins (27-2,) is set for 5:30 p.m. (CT) with live television coverage by the Big Ten Network.

Seventh-seeded Illinois slipped to 21-9 (11-7 Big Ten) on the season, as Nebraska avenged a 77-68 loss to the Fighting Illini in Champaign on Feb. 16.

Prince hit 6-of-10 shots from the field including all three of her three-point attempts in the game, while adding a team-high five assists for the Big Red. Prince hit back-to-back short jumpers to tie the game at 65 with 2:18 left, after the Huskers fell behind 56-47 in the closing seconds of the third quarter.

Petrie, a 6-2 sophomore forward from Gold Coast, Australia, then gave Nebraska the lead for good with a huge three-pointer from the left wing to make it 68-65 with 1:34 left.&nbsp;

Genesis Bryant, who scored 17 of her game-high 20 points for the Illini in the second half, hit a pair of free throws to cut the margin to one with 1:16 left. Petrie then provided a layup on a baseline inbounds play that included an outstanding screen from&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/logan-nissley">Logan Nissley</a>&nbsp;with 26.8 seconds left after Nissley had kept the possession alive with two enormous offensive rebounds for the Huskers.

Nebraska then got a defensive stop that ended with an&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/alexis-markowski">Alexis Markowski</a>&nbsp;defensive rebound.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/callin-hake">Callin Hake</a>&nbsp;was fouled and calmly stepped to the free throw line with 11 seconds left to sink both free throws to give NU a 72-67 edge.&nbsp;

Prince sealed the victory with two more free throws.

Petrie finished with 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting while adding five rebounds, two assists and two early blocked shots in the game. Nissley, who started Nebraska's late rally with a layup at the buzzer to end the third quarter, finished with eight points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal.&nbsp;

Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/petra-bozan">Petra Bozan</a>&nbsp;gave a huge lift to the Big Red inside with 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting, including a three-point play midway through the fourth quarter that pulled Nebraska within 60-59.

The double-figure efforts from Bozan and Petrie supplied substantial support inside to Markowski, who was held to nine points and four rebounds. Markowski added two assists, two steals and two blocks.

Hake added seven points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/alberte-rimdal">Alberte Rimdal</a>&nbsp;also pitched in seven points off the bench. Illinois natives&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/kendall-moriarty">Kendall Moriarty</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/amiah-hargrove">Amiah Hargrove</a>&nbsp;rounded out the scoring for the Huskers with two points apiece in a true team effort in which Nebraska's bench outscored the Illini, 22-7.

For the game, Nebraska hit 28-of-57 shots (.491), including 8-of-16 threes. The Huskers also connected on 10-of-12 free throws, including all five in the decisive fourth quarter.&nbsp; The Big Red won the rebounding battle, 30-27, including 12-6 in the fourth quarter.

Illinois connected on 26-of-57 shots (.456), including 5-of-14 threes (.357), while going 13-for-15 at the line. The Illini won the turnover battle, 15-12.

Kendall Bostic scored 19 points and grabbed six rebounds but was held to just one second-half field goal and was scoreless in the fourth quarter. Adalia McKenzie added 16 points and a game-high 10 assists - all in the first three quarters for the Illini.

In an entertaining first half, Illinois jumped out to a 13-2 lead before Nebraska responded with a 7-0 run to cut the lead to four points at 19-15 at the end of the first quarter.

The Huskers continued to cut lead in the second quarter, trimming the margin to one point on two occasions, before the Illini took a 32-30 lead to the half.

Prince and Bozan led Nebraska with eight points apiece. Bozan went 4-for-4 in the half, while Prince hit 3-of-5 shots including both of her three-point attempts. Prince added three assists for the Huskers.

Nebraska hit 12-of-28 shots (.429) in the half, including 3-of-7 threes (.429), while going 3-for-4 at the line.

Illinois got 16 points on 8-of-9 shooting from Bostic, while McKenzie added nine points and six assists in the half.

The Fighting Illini hit 14-of-28 shots, including 1-of-3 threes and 3-of-4 three-point attempts. Both teams committed seven first-half turnovers, while Illinois won the first-half battle of the boards, 16-13.

Nebraska started the second half strong with a three from Nissley, a layup from Hake and a three from Prince to take its first lead of the game at 38-37 with 7:11 left in the third period. Nissley's second three-pointer put NU up 41-39 with 6:04 left, and a Rimdal three-point play kept the Huskers in front at 44-42 with 4:29 left in quarter.&nbsp;

However, McKenzie and Bryant then teamed up on an 8-0 Illini run to claim a 50-44 lead with 2:26 left in the third. The lead grew to 56-47 before Nissley's third quarter buzzer beater. Illinois won the third quarter 24-19, before Nebraska responded with a decisive 25-14 edge in the fourth.

Indianapolis&nbsp;- Big Ten All-Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/britt-prince">Britt Prince</a>&nbsp;scored a team-high 17 points, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/jessica-petrie">Jessica Petrie</a>&nbsp;scored nine points in the fourth quarter to help the Huskers rally from a nine-point third-quarter deficit for a 74-70 win over Illinois in the TIAA Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament second round on Thursday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741356037261.jpeg" alt="Husker Women defeat Illinois to move on to Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals on Friday night at 5:30pm CT" />
 <figcaption>Husker Women defeat Illinois to move on to Big Ten Tournament Quarterfinals on Friday night at 5:30pm CT</figcaption>
 </figure>With its fourth victory in the last five games, 10th-seeded Nebraska improved to 21-10 overall (10-8 Big Ten) and advanced to Friday's quarterfinal against No. 2 seed UCLA. Tip-off against the AP No. 4 Bruins (27-2,) is set for 5:30 p.m. (CT) with live television coverage by the Big Ten Network.Seventh-seeded Illinois slipped to 21-9 (11-7 Big Ten) on the season, as Nebraska avenged a 77-68 loss to the Fighting Illini in Champaign on Feb. 16.Prince hit 6-of-10 shots from the field including all three of her three-point attempts in the game, while adding a team-high five assists for the Big Red. Prince hit back-to-back short jumpers to tie the game at 65 with 2:18 left, after the Huskers fell behind 56-47 in the closing seconds of the third quarter.Petrie, a 6-2 sophomore forward from Gold Coast, Australia, then gave Nebraska the lead for good with a huge three-pointer from the left wing to make it 68-65 with 1:34 left.&nbsp;Genesis Bryant, who scored 17 of her game-high 20 points for the Illini in the second half, hit a pair of free throws to cut the margin to one with 1:16 left. Petrie then provided a layup on a baseline inbounds play that included an outstanding screen from&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/logan-nissley">Logan Nissley</a>&nbsp;with 26.8 seconds left after Nissley had kept the possession alive with two enormous offensive rebounds for the Huskers.Nebraska then got a defensive stop that ended with an&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/alexis-markowski">Alexis Markowski</a>&nbsp;defensive rebound.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/callin-hake">Callin Hake</a>&nbsp;was fouled and calmly stepped to the free throw line with 11 seconds left to sink both free throws to give NU a 72-67 edge.&nbsp;Prince sealed the victory with two more free throws.Petrie finished with 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting while adding five rebounds, two assists and two early blocked shots in the game. Nissley, who started Nebraska's late rally with a layup at the buzzer to end the third quarter, finished with eight points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal.&nbsp;Freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/petra-bozan">Petra Bozan</a>&nbsp;gave a huge lift to the Big Red inside with 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting, including a three-point play midway through the fourth quarter that pulled Nebraska within 60-59.The double-figure efforts from Bozan and Petrie supplied substantial support inside to Markowski, who was held to nine points and four rebounds. Markowski added two assists, two steals and two blocks.Hake added seven points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/alberte-rimdal">Alberte Rimdal</a>&nbsp;also pitched in seven points off the bench. Illinois natives&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/kendall-moriarty">Kendall Moriarty</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/player/amiah-hargrove">Amiah Hargrove</a>&nbsp;rounded out the scoring for the Huskers with two points apiece in a true team effort in which Nebraska's bench outscored the Illini, 22-7.For the game, Nebraska hit 28-of-57 shots (.491), including 8-of-16 threes. The Huskers also connected on 10-of-12 free throws, including all five in the decisive fourth quarter.&nbsp; The Big Red won the rebounding battle, 30-27, including 12-6 in the fourth quarter.Illinois connected on 26-of-57 shots (.456), including 5-of-14 threes (.357), while going 13-for-15 at the line. The Illini won the turnover battle, 15-12.Kendall Bostic scored 19 points and grabbed six rebounds but was held to just one second-half field goal and was scoreless in the fourth quarter. Adalia McKenzie added 16 points and a game-high 10 assists - all in the first three quarters for the Illini.In an entertaining first half, Illinois jumped out to a 13-2 lead before Nebraska responded with a 7-0 run to cut the lead to four points at 19-15 at the end of the first quarter.The Huskers continued to cut lead in the second quarter, trimming the margin to one point on two occasions, before the Illini took a 32-30 lead to the half.Prince and Bozan led Nebraska with eight points apiece. Bozan went 4-for-4 in the half, while Prince hit 3-of-5 shots including both of her three-point attempts. Prince added three assists for the Huskers.Nebraska hit 12-of-28 shots (.429) in the half, including 3-of-7 threes (.429), while going 3-for-4 at the line.Illinois got 16 points on 8-of-9 shooting from Bostic, while McKenzie added nine points and six assists in the half.The Fighting Illini hit 14-of-28 shots, including 1-of-3 threes and 3-of-4 three-point attempts. Both teams committed seven first-half turnovers, while Illinois won the first-half battle of the boards, 16-13.Nebraska started the second half strong with a three from Nissley, a layup from Hake and a three from Prince to take its first lead of the game at 38-37 with 7:11 left in the third period. Nissley's second three-pointer put NU up 41-39 with 6:04 left, and a Rimdal three-point play kept the Huskers in front at 44-42 with 4:29 left in quarter.&nbsp;However, McKenzie and Bryant then teamed up on an 8-0 Illini run to claim a 50-44 lead with 2:26 left in the third. The lead grew to 56-47 before Nissley's third quarter buzzer beater. Illinois won the third quarter 24-19, before Nebraska responded with a decisive 25-14 edge in the fourth.

Husker Women Rally for Win Over Illini, into Big Ten Quarterfinals

Story by NPCC Athletic Communication

North Platte, Neb. – The Knights women’s basketball team (19-12) will host North Iowa Area Community College (25-6) on Saturday for the Northwest Plains District A Championship. Tip is set for 4 p.m.

The championship game will be streamed on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://npccknights.com/watch_live">npccknights.com</a>&nbsp;and will also be broadcast by Eagle Communications in the local area on 98.1 FM and on the northplattepost.com.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationNorth Platte, Neb. – The Knights women’s basketball team (19-12) will host North Iowa Area Community College (25-6) on Saturday for the Northwest Plains District A Championship. Tip is set for 4 p.m.NOTABLES<ul>
 <li>North Platte punched their ticket after defeating Southeast Community College last Saturday in the Region IX Championship, 66-33.&nbsp;The win marks the fourth Region IX title for the Knights in the last five years.</li><li>North Platte is 8-3 this season when they have outrebounded their opponent. Knights are first in DII Region IX in offensive rebounds averaging 17.9 per game, while averaging 43.1 total rebounds per contest this season.</li><li>North Platte ranks sixth in the nation while averaging 16.5 steals per game during the 2024-25 campaign.</li><li>Knights are 17-9 in games where they have double digit steals.</li><li>Nariah and Neveah Golden have been a staple in the Knights dominating defense over the past two years. The twins from Denver, Colo. combine for 17.6 points, 6.3 assists and 5.6 steals per game this season.</li><li>EmmaJo Locks is a new face for the black and gold this season. She is a key player in the Knights offense, often orchestrating from the point guard position. Locks averages 6.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.3 steals and 2.5 assists in 29 minutes per game this season.</li>
 </ul>MEDIAThe championship game will be streamed on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://npccknights.com/watch_live">npccknights.com</a>&nbsp;and will also be broadcast by Eagle Communications in the local area on 98.1 FM and on the northplattepost.com.

Northwest Plains District A Championship preview

Lincoln, Ne - The Boys 2025 State Basketball Brackets were officially released Thursday morning. In Class C1, Ogallala (24-1) is the #2 seed while Cozad (24-3) is on the other side of the C1 bracket as the #4 seed. In Class D1, North Platte St. Pat's (19-6) is the #6 seed and also from the area, Dundy County-Stratton (19-5) is the #7 seed. The tournament begins next Wednesday in Lincoln.

Lincoln, Ne - The Boys 2025 State Basketball Brackets were officially released Thursday morning. In Class C1, Ogallala (24-1) is the #2 seed while Cozad (24-3) is on the other side of the C1 bracket as the #4 seed. In Class D1, North Platte St. Pat's (19-6) is the #6 seed and also from the area, Dundy County-Stratton (19-5) is the #7 seed. The tournament begins next Wednesday in Lincoln.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741269783073.png" alt="2025 Boys State Basketball Bracket" />
 <figcaption>2025 Boys State Basketball Bracket</figcaption>
 </figure>