Huskers Sweep Missouri, Set to Host NCAA Regional

LINCOLN, Neb. — The No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team continues its dominant run, securing a spot in its 12th consecutive NCAA Regional after a commanding 3-0 sweep of Missouri on Saturday night. In a match that showcased the Huskers’ formidable prowess, the team outplayed the Tigers (18-13) with scores of 25-14, 25-19, and 25-21 at the Bob Devaney Sports Center, before an enthusiastic crowd of 8,640.

The victory propels Nebraska (30-1) into the NCAA Regional, where they will host No. 12 Georgia Tech in one of the regional semifinals next Thursday, a match slated for 1 p.m. on ESPN2. Meanwhile, No. 8 Kentucky will face No. 9 Arkansas in the other regional semifinal in Lincoln at 3:30 p.m. on ESPNU. Fans eager to catch the action live should note that a very limited number of tickets will be available starting Sunday at 7 p.m. on Huskers.com.

Huskers’ Strategic Dominance

Nebraska’s strategy and execution were impeccable throughout the match. The team hit .264, significantly limiting Missouri to just .089. The Huskers also demonstrated their defensive strength by posting 14 blocks, the highest in a three-set match this season. Adding to their multifaceted performance, the Huskers served with precision, resulting in five aces against only four errors.

Key Performances

Merritt Beason led the Husker offense for the second consecutive night with 12 kills and a hitting percentage above .430. Ally Batenhorst and Harper Murray followed suit with seven and six kills, respectively. Meanwhile, Bergen Reilly played a crucial role, dishing out 26 assists, securing 10 digs, and achieving a career-high four aces.

Defensively, Bekka Allick and Andi Jackson were walls at the net, recording eight and six blocks, respectively. Beason added five blocks, demonstrating the team’s collective effort. The backcourt defense, led by Lexi Rodiguez (11 digs) and Laney Choboy (10 digs), was equally impressive, ensuring stability and resilience throughout the match.

Opponent’s Effort

Janet DeMarrais and Dilara Gedikoglu led Missouri with 13 and 12 kills, respectively. Despite their efforts, the Tigers concluded their season with an 18-13 record, finding it challenging to penetrate the Huskers’ robust defensive setup.

Sets Recap

• Set 1 saw Nebraska off to a blazing start with a 7-0 run and never looked back, winning 25-14.
• In Set 2, despite Missouri’s resilience, the Huskers extended their lead and won 25-19.
• Set 3 witnessed the Tigers leading at one point, but Nebraska’s composure and skill shone through as they sealed the match with a 25-21 win.

Upcoming Challenges

As Nebraska prepares for the NCAA Regional, the focus will be on maintaining this high level of play. The upcoming matches against formidable opponents like Georgia Tech and potentially Kentucky or Arkansas will test the Huskers’ resolve, skill, and championship pedigree.

Nebraska’s Legacy Continues

This season marks another milestone in Nebraska’s storied volleyball history. The team’s 30th win cements its status as a powerhouse in collegiate volleyball, reflecting the consistent excellence the program has achieved under Coach John Cook’s guidance.

Stay Tuned for More Husker Action

Fans can look forward to more thrilling volleyball as the Huskers aim to continue their journey toward another NCAA championship. With their blend of offensive firepower and defensive solidity, Nebraska’s volleyball team remains a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Tournament.