Nebraska Volleyball Triumphs Over Pittsburgh, Advances to NCAA Final

TAMPA, Fla., December 14, 2023 – In an electrifying display of skill and teamwork, the No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team secured its place in the NCAA Final after a stunning sweep against Pittsburgh in Thursday’s NCAA Semifinal at Amalie Arena. The historic match, witnessed by a record-breaking crowd of 19,598, is a testament to the unwavering spirit and prowess of the Huskers.

The Huskers, showing poise and dominance, trailed for merely four rallies in the entire match. After an initial back-and-forth in the opening set, Nebraska found their rhythm, clinching the first set 25-20. Their momentum remained unbroken in the subsequent sets, with a 25-23 win in the second and a commanding 25-17 in the final set, sealing their victory.

Nebraska’s performance was a blend of aggressive offense and impenetrable defense. The team hit .245 against the Panthers, who boasted one of the country’s top opponent hitting percentages. More impressively, the Huskers stifled Pitt to a mere .137 attack percentage – a season-low for the Panthers since their opener against BYU.

The Husker block was particularly formidable, amassing 15 stuffs, with Bekka Allick contributing a remarkable 10 blocks. This defensive wall proved crucial in offsetting the Panthers’ strategies. Merritt Beason, the NCAA Lincoln Regional Most Outstanding Player, delivered yet again with five blocks, while Ally Batenhorst and Andi Jackson each played a role in four blocks. Lexi Rodriguez, with a match-high 10 digs, was instrumental in the Huskers’ floor defense.

Freshman sensation Harper Murray shone brightly in her NCAA Semifinal debut, leading the team with 13 kills. Beason and Batenhorst contributed eight kills each, demonstrating the team’s depth and versatility.

The Huskers now set their sights on the NCAA Final, where they’ll face either Wisconsin or Texas. This marks Nebraska’s 11th NCAA Final appearance in program history, a remarkable achievement underlining their legacy in collegiate volleyball.

John Cook, Nebraska’s esteemed head coach, has once again proven his exceptional leadership, guiding the team to its eighth NCAA Final under his tenure. This achievement places him among the elite coaches in Division I volleyball.

Nebraska’s journey to the NCAA Final is not just a story of athletic excellence but also of unity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. As they prepare for Sunday’s showdown, the Huskers carry not only the hopes of their fans but the legacy of a program synonymous with success.

Nebraska Volleyball’s march to the NCAA Final is a journey that transcends the boundaries of sport, inspiring and exhilarating fans and aspiring athletes alike. Go Huskers!

[Stay updated on this thrilling journey to the championship and more at HuskersToday.com]

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