University of Nebraska’s Perfect Season Ends in Regional Final

The Nebraska volleyball team experienced a heart-wrenching defeat in the NCAA Regional Final against No. 6 Texas A&M. The match took place on a Sunday afternoon in Lincoln, Nebraska, before a lively crowd of 8,650 at John Cook Arena in the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Despite a valiant effort to rally from a two-set deficit, the Huskers ultimately succumbed, ending their season with a remarkable 33-1 record.

Nebraska’s Challenging Journey

Texas A&M, now advancing to the NCAA Semifinals with a 27-4 record, set the tone early in the match. The Aggies took the first two sets, marking only the third time this season that Nebraska lost consecutive sets.

• Set 1: Nebraska started strong, leading 10-3. However, Texas A&M rallied, clinching the set 25-22.
• Set 2: A competitive battle ensued, but the Aggies took another set, 25-22.
• Set 3: The Huskers fought back to win 25-20, led by Harper Murray’s powerful play.
• Set 4: In a thrilling showdown, Nebraska won 37-35, overcoming multiple match points.
• Set 5: The Aggies narrowly won the final set 15-13, taking the match.

Statistical Highlights

This match highlighted standout performances from both teams:

• Texas A&M had 75 kills to Nebraska’s 73, with each team showing impressive attack percentages (.275 for A&M and .270 for Nebraska).
• Kyndal Stowers and Logan Lednicky of Texas A&M each recorded over 20 kills, contributing significantly to their victory.
• For Nebraska, Harper Murray achieved a career-high 25 kills, showcasing her offensive prowess.
• Bergen Reilly contributed a double-double with 58 assists and 13 digs.

Postseason Reflections

The loss not only ended Nebraska’s season but also snapped their 33-match winning streak. They concluded their NCAA Tournament run with an impressive historical record:

• All-time NCAA Tournament record: 137-39
• Nebraska ranks second in NCAA history for postseason wins and winning percentage (.778).
• They now stand 18-16 in NCAA Regional Finals.
• Home NCAA Tournament matches record: 90-8, including 35-3 at the Devaney Center.
• The match against Texas A&M marked Nebraska’s first home loss since December 1, 2022.

Additionally, Rebekah Allick left a lasting impact, finishing her career with a .441 postseason attack percentage, the highest in Nebraska history. Harper Murray’s career total of 109 service aces places her among the top players in the program during the rally-scoring era.

This hard-fought match will be remembered as a significant moment in Nebraska volleyball history, affirming the team’s strength and resilience throughout the season.