By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

PUEBLO, Colo. – In an instant classic befitting a title decider, the CSU Pueblo ThunderWolves scored touchdowns on both of their overtime possessions to defeat Chadron State 30-27 in double overtime on Saturday in Pueblo.

After both teams squeezed out wins in overtime the previous Saturday to remain undefeated in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and set up Saturday's winner-take-all showdown, Chadron State (now 8-3, 8-1 RMAC) and CSU Pueblo (now 10-1, 9-0 RMAC) battled tooth and nail to decide the conference championship during the regular season finale.

With the win, Pueblo wins its second straight conference championship and automatically advances to the NCAA Division II playoffs, but the Eagles are convinced that after reeling off wins in eight consecutive conference games and battling the champions to nearly a draw, they also deserve the privilege of being selected for the postseason. They will find out if their wishes come true Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m. Mountain time.  

CSU ​Pueblo came into the game averaging 40 points a game, but managed only 17 through the first four quarters against the stingy Eagles defense, which forced two turnovers. Wilson Yee, the hero last Saturday against Western Colorado, made two more field goals, including a season-long 58-yarder that was the senior's longest kick since setting a school record with a 61-yarder back in 2023. 

​The game featured gobs of exceptional plays and suspense. In some ways, the ThunderWolves dominated – they ran 109 plays compared to Chadron State's 60 and outgained the Eagles 541 to 242 from the line of scrimmage – but time and time again, the Eagles came up with huge plays to halt the ThunderWolves' momentum.

Sophomore Chase Nelson turned in the game's biggest play by racing 92 yards with a kickoff return through the middle of the field for the game's opening touchdown. The Eagles' cause also benefited when Pueblo missed three of its four field goal attempts, none of them more than 36 yards long.

With the score tied and time winding down in regulation, the ThunderWolves had the ball at the Eagles' 29-yard line and pushed a throw towards the end zone with eight seconds remaining, only for cornerback AJ Scurlock to make his first interception of the season at the goal line to send the time to overtime.

​The score was knotted at 17-17 at the end of regulation. Each team scored a touchdown and added the extra point in the first overtime. The Eagles had the ball first in the second extra session and settled for Wilson Yee's 40-yard field goal. ​A pass interference call against the Eagles helped keep Pueblo's ensuing possession alive and on third down quarterback Roman Fuller hit wide receiver Marcellius Honeycut with a 19-yard pass for the touchdown and the three-point victory. 

​More than three hours earlier when the game kicked off, Pueblo scored first when kicker Jackson Smith, who struggled the rest of the day, hit a 32-yard field goal late in the opening quarter. Nelson responded immediately with his dynamic 92-yard gallop that put the Eagles ahead 7-3 after Yee added the extra point.  

​It was only the 11th time an Eagle has romped 90 or more yards with a kickoff for a touchdown.

The Eagles went ahead 14-3 with 3:32 left in the second quarter by putting together a 15-play, 80-yard drive that lasted 8 minutes and 38 seconds and netted five of CSC's 12 first downs. The march's longest play was a 29-yard pass from Ralph to wide receiver Rollin George III, which saw the Eagles beat a Pueblo blitz with a perfectly-timed screen pass. It also included a fourth-down conversion on a fullback handoff to 300-pound nose tackle Tanner True before alternate quarterback Wyatt Sprague went the final three yards on a quarterback draw to the goal line for the touchdown..

​Pueblo answered back in short order by going 75 yards in nine plays in just two-and-a-half minutes and scoring on a 10-yard pass from Fuller to reigning RMAC Player of the Year Reggie Retzlaff to cut CSC's halftime lead to 14-10. ​

The ThunderWolves moved ahead 17-14 by scoring the only points in the third period by going a 70 yards in 13 plays that concluded on running back Kiahn Martinez's one-yard plunge. The Eagles tied the count at 17 just 73 seconds into the fourth period when Yee booted his 58-yarder, which used the wind to hook inside the right upright. ​

Aided by both roughing the passer and pass interference penalties against the Eagles, Pueblo threatened to score on their ensuing possession, but the ThunderWolves went for it on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line, only for the ball carrier to be stuffed by True and linebacker Jarred Marquez. 

Personal foul and face mask penalties against Pueblo helped the Eagles get away from their own goal line and cross midfield, but Ralph was intercepted by CSUP safety Peyton Shaw. Again, the Eagle defense answered the bell, sacking Fuller on back-to-back plays to force a punt.

​Chadron State also had to punt with just 1:45 left to play. Senior standout Brodie Eisenbraun boomed a 55-yarder that the Pack returner muffed while attempting an over-the-shoulder catch running backwards, but a Pueblo teammate recovered it at the CSUP 16-yard line before the Eagles could claim it.

The ThunderWolves quickly picked up a pair of first downs and Fuller connected on a 30-yard toss that Zack Rakowsky caught at the Eagles' 29. But on the next play, Fuller's pass towards the end zone was intercepted by Scurlock, who returned it 24 yards as the fourth period was ending. 

​Pueblo's first overtime score came on a one-yard pass to from Fuller to Retzlaff. Chadron State responded on a five-yard run burst by Jake Marschall after quarterback DJ Ralph had raced 20 yards on the Eagles' first snap in OT.  

The Eagles couldn't pick up a first down in the second overtime period and got three points from Yee, opening the door for Pueblo to win with a touchdown. Facing 3rd-and-4 from the 14-yard line, Pueblo appeared to have made a signifcant mistake by taking a delay of game penalty that backed the Pack up to the 19, but Fuller found Honeycutt on a slant over the middle for the walk-off score.

​Counting overtime, Fuller completed 40 of 66 passes for 442 yards. Retzlaff caught 14 passes for 166 yards while Zack Rakowsky grabbed 11 for 118 yards and Honeycutt four for 81.

​Martinez led the hosts with 23 carries for 73 yards while Marschall paced the Eagles with 18 rushes for 66 yards. 

​Because of injuries, the Eagles were forced to play without Aidan Thompson, their starting quarterback during five straight victories in the middle of the season, their two leading running backs, Quincey Ryker and Daytuawn Pearson, safety Tucker Peterson and also lost another standout safety, Dax Yeradi, in the first quarter.

​During the postgame radio show, Head Coach Jay Long said he was "super proud" of how the Eagles took up the slack while filling in for the missing players and made so many crucial plays.  He insisted that the Eagles definitely deserve to be among the playoff teams, 

​Linebackers Cooper Walton and O'Brien paced the Eagles in tackles with 10 and nine while Stemler made eight and Jadon Bowen and Liam Blaser seven apiece. Stemler forced a fumble in the first half which O'Brien recovered. 

DJ Ralph completed 6 of 19 passes for 91 yards for Chadron State. Tommy Thomas had a season-low two receptions, which went for 50 yards. 

The Eagles will learn their playoff fate on Sunday afternoon. If they are selected, the Eagles will have a game this upcoming weekend.

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports InformationPUEBLO, Colo. – In an instant classic befitting a title decider, the CSU Pueblo ThunderWolves scored touchdowns on both of their overtime possessions to defeat Chadron State 30-27 in double overtime on Saturday in Pueblo.After both teams squeezed out wins in overtime the previous Saturday to remain undefeated in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and set up Saturday's winner-take-all showdown, Chadron State (now 8-3, 8-1 RMAC) and CSU Pueblo (now 10-1, 9-0 RMAC) battled tooth and nail to decide the conference championship during the regular season finale.With the win, Pueblo wins its second straight conference championship and automatically advances to the NCAA Division II playoffs, but the Eagles are convinced that after reeling off wins in eight consecutive conference games and battling the champions to nearly a draw, they also deserve the privilege of being selected for the postseason. They will find out if their wishes come true Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m. Mountain time. CSU ​Pueblo came into the game averaging 40 points a game, but managed only 17 through the first four quarters against the stingy Eagles defense, which forced two turnovers. Wilson Yee, the hero last Saturday against Western Colorado, made two more field goals, including a season-long 58-yarder that was the senior's longest kick since setting a school record with a 61-yarder back in 2023. ​The game featured gobs of exceptional plays and suspense. In some ways, the ThunderWolves dominated – they ran 109 plays compared to Chadron State's 60 and outgained the Eagles 541 to 242 from the line of scrimmage – but time and time again, the Eagles came up with huge plays to halt the ThunderWolves' momentum.Sophomore Chase Nelson turned in the game's biggest play by racing 92 yards with a kickoff return through the middle of the field for the game's opening touchdown. The Eagles' cause also benefited when Pueblo missed three of its four field goal attempts, none of them more than 36 yards long.With the score tied and time winding down in regulation, the ThunderWolves had the ball at the Eagles' 29-yard line and pushed a throw towards the end zone with eight seconds remaining, only for cornerback AJ Scurlock to make his first interception of the season at the goal line to send the time to overtime.​The score was knotted at 17-17 at the end of regulation. Each team scored a touchdown and added the extra point in the first overtime. The Eagles had the ball first in the second extra session and settled for Wilson Yee's 40-yard field goal. ​A pass interference call against the Eagles helped keep Pueblo's ensuing possession alive and on third down quarterback Roman Fuller hit wide receiver Marcellius Honeycut with a 19-yard pass for the touchdown and the three-point victory. ​More than three hours earlier when the game kicked off, Pueblo scored first when kicker Jackson Smith, who struggled the rest of the day, hit a 32-yard field goal late in the opening quarter. Nelson responded immediately with his dynamic 92-yard gallop that put the Eagles ahead 7-3 after Yee added the extra point. ​It was only the 11th time an Eagle has romped 90 or more yards with a kickoff for a touchdown.The Eagles went ahead 14-3 with 3:32 left in the second quarter by putting together a 15-play, 80-yard drive that lasted 8 minutes and 38 seconds and netted five of CSC's 12 first downs. The march's longest play was a 29-yard pass from Ralph to wide receiver Rollin George III, which saw the Eagles beat a Pueblo blitz with a perfectly-timed screen pass. It also included a fourth-down conversion on a fullback handoff to 300-pound nose tackle Tanner True before alternate quarterback Wyatt Sprague went the final three yards on a quarterback draw to the goal line for the touchdown..​Pueblo answered back in short order by going 75 yards in nine plays in just two-and-a-half minutes and scoring on a 10-yard pass from Fuller to reigning RMAC Player of the Year Reggie Retzlaff to cut CSC's halftime lead to 14-10. ​The ThunderWolves moved ahead 17-14 by scoring the only points in the third period by going a 70 yards in 13 plays that concluded on running back Kiahn Martinez's one-yard plunge. The Eagles tied the count at 17 just 73 seconds into the fourth period when Yee booted his 58-yarder, which used the wind to hook inside the right upright. ​Aided by both roughing the passer and pass interference penalties against the Eagles, Pueblo threatened to score on their ensuing possession, but the ThunderWolves went for it on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line, only for the ball carrier to be stuffed by True and linebacker Jarred Marquez. Personal foul and face mask penalties against Pueblo helped the Eagles get away from their own goal line and cross midfield, but Ralph was intercepted by CSUP safety Peyton Shaw. Again, the Eagle defense answered the bell, sacking Fuller on back-to-back plays to force a punt.​Chadron State also had to punt with just 1:45 left to play. Senior standout Brodie Eisenbraun boomed a 55-yarder that the Pack returner muffed while attempting an over-the-shoulder catch running backwards, but a Pueblo teammate recovered it at the CSUP 16-yard line before the Eagles could claim it.The ThunderWolves quickly picked up a pair of first downs and Fuller connected on a 30-yard toss that Zack Rakowsky caught at the Eagles' 29. But on the next play, Fuller's pass towards the end zone was intercepted by Scurlock, who returned it 24 yards as the fourth period was ending. ​Pueblo's first overtime score came on a one-yard pass to from Fuller to Retzlaff. Chadron State responded on a five-yard run burst by Jake Marschall after quarterback DJ Ralph had raced 20 yards on the Eagles' first snap in OT. The Eagles couldn't pick up a first down in the second overtime period and got three points from Yee, opening the door for Pueblo to win with a touchdown. Facing 3rd-and-4 from the 14-yard line, Pueblo appeared to have made a signifcant mistake by taking a delay of game penalty that backed the Pack up to the 19, but Fuller found Honeycutt on a slant over the middle for the walk-off score.​Counting overtime, Fuller completed 40 of 66 passes for 442 yards. Retzlaff caught 14 passes for 166 yards while Zack Rakowsky grabbed 11 for 118 yards and Honeycutt four for 81.​Martinez led the hosts with 23 carries for 73 yards while Marschall paced the Eagles with 18 rushes for 66 yards. ​Because of injuries, the Eagles were forced to play without Aidan Thompson, their starting quarterback during five straight victories in the middle of the season, their two leading running backs, Quincey Ryker and Daytuawn Pearson, safety Tucker Peterson and also lost another standout safety, Dax Yeradi, in the first quarter.​During the postgame radio show, Head Coach Jay Long said he was "super proud" of how the Eagles took up the slack while filling in for the missing players and made so many crucial plays. He insisted that the Eagles definitely deserve to be among the playoff teams, ​Linebackers Cooper Walton and O'Brien paced the Eagles in tackles with 10 and nine while Stemler made eight and Jadon Bowen and Liam Blaser seven apiece. Stemler forced a fumble in the first half which O'Brien recovered. DJ Ralph completed 6 of 19 passes for 91 yards for Chadron State. Tommy Thomas had a season-low two receptions, which went for 50 yards. The Eagles will learn their playoff fate on Sunday afternoon. If they are selected, the Eagles will have a game this upcoming weekend.

Chadron States takes Pueblo to Double OT in epic RMAC Championship

CHADRON, Neb. – After breaking a 2-2 tie, the West Texas A&amp;M Buffaloes led the rest of the way while defeating the Chadron State College men's basketball team 98-76 in a non-conference game played in Canyon, Texas, on Friday, Nov 13.  

​It was the season-opener for the Eagles, while West Texas is now 3-0.  The two teams will play again at noon (MT) on Saturday.

Isaiah Randolph recorded a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds for the Eagles to lead four CSC players in double figures. Chadron State shot 46.8 percent from the field and made 25 of 29 free throw attempts, but West Texas A&amp;M was even better, shooting 53.7 percent from the floor.

​Although the Buffaloes jumped out to a 12-4 lead in the first four minutes and were ahead 29-18 midway through the opening half, the Eagles put up a great fight for the next 10 minutes. Two free throws by Randolph cut the Texas team's lead to just two points at 37-35 with 3:50 left in the half. ​However, the Eagles were outscored 8-2 the remainder of the half, allowing West Texas to carry a 45-37 lead into intermission.

​Both teams shot exactly 50 percent from the field in the first half. Chadron State was 10 of 20 and West Texas was 17 of 35 and had one more 3-pointer to its credit. The Eagles remained within striking distance because they had made 13 of 15 free throws and the home team was just six of nine from the line.

​West Texas outscored the Eagles 53-39 in the second half and broke the game open down the stretch. The Buffaloes led by double digits for the final 14:41 of game time and opened up their largest lead of 25 points with 1:56 to go before the 22-point final margin of victory.

Nine players scored for each team, but six Buffaloes reached double figures, and four for the Eagles.

​Chadron State's leading scorer was Randolph, a 6-foot-4 junior who did not start, but played the most minutes (27) and finished with 19 points while going 4 of 6 from the field and 11 of 12 from the free throw strip. Randolph's 11 rebounds were at least five more than any other member of either team.

​Also scoring in double figures for CSC were Jovan Jovanovic with 14 and Mack Keighran and Zach Smith with 10 apiece. Jovanovic hit three of CSC's seven three-pointers.

West Texas was paced by 6-foot-2 guard Fontaine Williams with 21 points, who went a game-best 4-of-6 from 3-point range. He also was his team's top scorer in the Buffs' wins over Missouri Western and Pittsburg State two weeks ago. 

Jailyn Sledge was second on the hosts' scoring list with 17 points, followed by Zach Brown with 15, James Parlow and Kemper Jones, both with 13, and Brendan Ballard with 10. ​

​ The Buffs shot 57.6 percent (19-33) and CSC 44.4 percent (12-27) from the field in the second half. West Texas was 12-33 for the game from 3-point range and the Eagles seven of 19. CSC finished 25-29 at the free throw line and the Buffs 14-20. West Texas had only five turnovers; the Eagles 12. 

The two teams will rematch on Saturday before Chadron State returns home to face the University of Mary in CSC's home opener next Wednesday.

​Chadron State—Isaiah Randolph 19, Jovan Jovanovich 14, Mack Keighran10, Zach Smith 10, Jadon Cool 9, Luka Djurovic 5, Blessing Adesipe 4, Ethan Russell 3, Collin Nick 2. Totals: 22-47 FG (7-19 3PT) 25-29 FT. 76 points, 29 rebounds, 12 turnovers.

​West Texas A&amp;M—Fontaine Williams, 21, Jailyn Sledge 17, Zach Brown 15, James Parlow 13, Kemper Jones 13, Brendan Ballard 10, Brock Mishak 4, Jaden Holt 3, Nicholas Jett 2. Totals: 36-67 FG (12-33 3PT) 14-20 FT. 98 points, 34 rebounds, 5 turnovers.

​Chadron State                37                39          ---76

​West Texas A&amp;M​            45                 53         ---98

​3-pointers: CSC—Jovanovich 3, Keighran, Cool, Djurovic, Russell, all 1. WTAM—Williams 4, Jones 3, Brown 3, Sledge 2.

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports InformationCHADRON, Neb. – After breaking a 2-2 tie, the West Texas A&amp;M Buffaloes led the rest of the way while defeating the Chadron State College men's basketball team 98-76 in a non-conference game played in Canyon, Texas, on Friday, Nov 13. ​It was the season-opener for the Eagles, while West Texas is now 3-0. The two teams will play again at noon (MT) on Saturday.Isaiah Randolph recorded a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds for the Eagles to lead four CSC players in double figures. Chadron State shot 46.8 percent from the field and made 25 of 29 free throw attempts, but West Texas A&amp;M was even better, shooting 53.7 percent from the floor.​Although the Buffaloes jumped out to a 12-4 lead in the first four minutes and were ahead 29-18 midway through the opening half, the Eagles put up a great fight for the next 10 minutes. Two free throws by Randolph cut the Texas team's lead to just two points at 37-35 with 3:50 left in the half. ​However, the Eagles were outscored 8-2 the remainder of the half, allowing West Texas to carry a 45-37 lead into intermission.​Both teams shot exactly 50 percent from the field in the first half. Chadron State was 10 of 20 and West Texas was 17 of 35 and had one more 3-pointer to its credit. The Eagles remained within striking distance because they had made 13 of 15 free throws and the home team was just six of nine from the line.​West Texas outscored the Eagles 53-39 in the second half and broke the game open down the stretch. The Buffaloes led by double digits for the final 14:41 of game time and opened up their largest lead of 25 points with 1:56 to go before the 22-point final margin of victory.Nine players scored for each team, but six Buffaloes reached double figures, and four for the Eagles.​Chadron State's leading scorer was Randolph, a 6-foot-4 junior who did not start, but played the most minutes (27) and finished with 19 points while going 4 of 6 from the field and 11 of 12 from the free throw strip. Randolph's 11 rebounds were at least five more than any other member of either team.​Also scoring in double figures for CSC were Jovan Jovanovic with 14 and Mack Keighran and Zach Smith with 10 apiece. Jovanovic hit three of CSC's seven three-pointers.West Texas was paced by 6-foot-2 guard Fontaine Williams with 21 points, who went a game-best 4-of-6 from 3-point range. He also was his team's top scorer in the Buffs' wins over Missouri Western and Pittsburg State two weeks ago. Jailyn Sledge was second on the hosts' scoring list with 17 points, followed by Zach Brown with 15, James Parlow and Kemper Jones, both with 13, and Brendan Ballard with 10. ​​ The Buffs shot 57.6 percent (19-33) and CSC 44.4 percent (12-27) from the field in the second half. West Texas was 12-33 for the game from 3-point range and the Eagles seven of 19. CSC finished 25-29 at the free throw line and the Buffs 14-20. West Texas had only five turnovers; the Eagles 12. The two teams will rematch on Saturday before Chadron State returns home to face the University of Mary in CSC's home opener next Wednesday.​Chadron State—Isaiah Randolph 19, Jovan Jovanovich 14, Mack Keighran10, Zach Smith 10, Jadon Cool 9, Luka Djurovic 5, Blessing Adesipe 4, Ethan Russell 3, Collin Nick 2. Totals: 22-47 FG (7-19 3PT) 25-29 FT. 76 points, 29 rebounds, 12 turnovers.​West Texas A&amp;M—Fontaine Williams, 21, Jailyn Sledge 17, Zach Brown 15, James Parlow 13, Kemper Jones 13, Brendan Ballard 10, Brock Mishak 4, Jaden Holt 3, Nicholas Jett 2. Totals: 36-67 FG (12-33 3PT) 14-20 FT. 98 points, 34 rebounds, 5 turnovers.​Chadron State 37 39 ---76​West Texas A&amp;M​ 45 53 ---98​3-pointers: CSC—Jovanovich 3, Keighran, Cool, Djurovic, Russell, all 1. WTAM—Williams 4, Jones 3, Brown 3, Sledge 2.

🏀 CSC men drop season opener at West Texas A&M

The Nebraska men's basketball team hit the road for the first time this season, as the Huskers travel to Sioux Falls, S.D., for a matchup with Oklahoma. Tipoff from a sold-out Sanford Pentagon is set for 6 p.m. (central) and the game will be televised nationally on BTN and carried on the Huskers Radio Network, as well as Huskers.com and on the Huskers app.

The Huskers (2-0) used a career night from Sam Hoiberg and a strong defensive effort to down Maryland-Eastern Shore, 69-50, Tuesday night. Hoiberg scored a career-high 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting and tied career highs in rebounds (seven) and steals (four) as the Huskers overcame an off night from 3-point range. NU's defense held the Hawks to 31 percent shooting and forced 16 turnovers. The Huskers limited UMES to a 2-of-20 shooting during a nearly 12-minute stretch in building a 31-point second half lead. Nebraska has been stout on the defensive end, holding all three opponents to under 0.90 points per possession on a combined 33.5 percent shooting.

While Hoiberg's performance was the highlight, Nebraska got another strong performance from Pryce Sandfort, as he finished with a game-high 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting and added five rebounds. Sandfort leads a balanced Husker attack at 14.0 ppg while shooting 52 percent from the field and 41 percent from long range while averaging 3.0 3-pointers per contest. 

Following three straight home games, NU begins a stretch of three straight away from home against an Oklahoma team which won 20 games and reached the NCAA Tournament in 2025. The Sooners are 2-1 on the year after a 95-69 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Tuesday. Xzayvier Brown's 19 points led five Sooners in double figures as Oklahoma shot 57 percent in the second half to pull away down the stretch. One of four first-year transfers in the OU starting lineup, Brown averages a team-high 18.7 points per game to pace a Sooner offense which is averaging 88.3 points per game on 49 percent shooting. 

Following Saturday's game, the Huskers will play in the Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City next week, taking on New Mexico on Thursday, Nov. 20.

7 - Nebraska has won seven straight games dating back to last season. It is the nation's longest active winning streak and a win over Oklahoma on Saturday would give the Huskers their longest win streak since the 2010-11 season (11 games). 

11.0 - Nebraska is averaging 11.0 3-pointers per game to rank sixth in the Big Ten as of Nov. 13. Last year, NU had just 17 3-pointers through the first three contests.

3.5 - Over the last seven games dating back to the College Basketball Crown, Sam Hoiberg is averaging 4.0 assists per game with a 3.5-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Hoiberg has double the number of steals (16) than turnovers (eight) in that stretch.

3- For just the third time in the Big Ten era (2011-12 to present), Nebraska returns multiple double-figure scorers with Rienk Mast (12.3 ppg in 2023-24) and Connor Essegian (10.7 ppg). In both previous instances (2018-19 and 2024-25), Nebraska has advanced to postseason play. 

401 - Nebraska's 2025-26 roster entered the season with 401 career starts at the Division I level. Rienk Mast has 111 starts in his career while Kendall Blue has started 89 times during his career at St. Thomas. 

.933 - Over the last three-plus seasons, NU is 42-3 when holding foes to under 1.00 PPP and 44-5 when holding opponents to under 70 points. Nebraska has improved its KenPom defensive efficiency in each of the past three seasons.

.800 - Nebraska is 40-10 under Fred Hoiberg when scoring 80 or more points, including a 31-7 mark over the last three-plus seasons. Of those seven losses since the start of 2022-23, four were in overtime.

.957 - Nebraska is 22-1 at home in non-conference play over the last three-plus seasons and is 35-9 (.795) at home in non-conference action in Fred Hoiberg's tenure at Nebraska.

• Nebraska's seven-game win streak matches the longest win streak for the Huskers under Fred Hoiberg, as NU also won the first seven games of the 2023-24 season. Nebraska is averaging 82.0 ppg on 48 percent shooting during its seven-game win streak and has scored at least 1.00 ppp in all seven contests. 

• Nebraska is averaging 21.0 assists per game over the first three contests, which is well above NU's first three games totals for each season under Fred Hoiberg. Last year, NU averaged 14.7 assists per game for the season. NU's 2.03 assist-to-turnover ratio is also well above NU's early-season pace after three games 

• Nebraska had 20-or-more assists in each of its first two games, including 29 against FIU, its highest total since having 35 against Northeastern Illinois on Dec. 21, 1994.

• Through three games, Nebraska has seven players who have reached double figures following Sam Hoiberg's 18-point effort on Tuesday.  Of those seven players, five had had at least one game of at

least 18 points, including a pair of 20-point efforts (Braden Frager and Pryce Sandfort). 

• Nebraska has had seven double-digit scoring runs over the first three contests, including three each against West Georgia and FIU. 

• Nebraska's signing class of Colin Rice and Jacob Lanier is ranked by ESPN as the No. 24 signing class nationally during the early signing period. 

• Seniors Sam Hoiberg and Jamarques Lawrence are the only players on the Husker roster who played in the 2023 matchup with Oklahoma, as they both played the final 43 seconds against the Sooners.

Oklahoma comes into Saturday’s game with a 2-1 record following its 95-69 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff Tuesday night. OU opened with a win over St. Francis before falling at No. 21 Gonzaga on the

road last Saturday. The Sooners revamped their roster in the offseason with eight newcomers while three others were on the 2024-25 roster returned after not playing last season.  

The Sooners are led by a pair of high-scoring guards in Xzayvier Brown and Nijel Pack. Brown was a first-team All-Atlantic-10 pick at St. Joseph’s, where he averaged 17.6 points and 4.3 assists per game in 2024-25. This season, he is leading OU in scoring at 18.7 ppg on 54 percent shooting.  Pack, who played previously at Kansas State and Miami, averaged 13.9 ppg in nine starts before suffering a season-ending foot injury last season. He has averaged double figures every year of his college career and is averaging 16.3 ppg. Tae Davis and Derrion Reid give the Sooners four double-figure scorers while Mohamed Wague is grabbed nearly eight rebounds and blocking two shots per game. 

Head Coach Porter Moser, who played collegiately at Creighton and began his coaching career on the Bluejay staff, is in his fifth season at Oklahoma after previous stops at Arkansas-Little Rock, Illinois State and Loyola-Chicago. Moser guided Loyola-Chicago to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances in his 10 years at the school, including a Final Four in 2018 and a Sweet 16 appearance in 2021.  At OU, he has guided the Sooners to consecutive 20-win seasons, including an NCAA Tournament appearance last season. 

Oklahoma leads the all-time series, 105-83, that began on Jan. 31, 1921. Saturday’s meeting will be the first between the schools since the 2022 ESPN Events Invitational in Orlando, a game the Sooners won 69-56. This is the second non-conference meeting since Nebraska joined the Big Ten in 2011-12, as the schools were conference rivals for 90 years. The matchup with Oklahoma is potentially one of two SEC opponents on the 2025-26 schedule, as Nebraska could face Mississippi State on the second day of the Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City. 

For the third straight year, Nebraska will be playing a neutral-site game at the Sanford Pentagon when the Huskers take on Oklahoma. It will be a busy Husker basketball weekend, as the Sanford Pentagon will host a women's basketball matchup between Nebraska and North Dakota State on Sunday afternoon. 

• The Husker men are 2-1 in the building, which hosted its first college game on Nov. 8, 2013. That was also the date of the first game at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln.  Nebraska defeated Oklahoma State (94-74, 12/16/18) and Oregon State (84-63, 11/18/23) before falling to Saint Mary’s (77-74, 11/17/24) last season. 

• A capacity crowd of 3,200 is expected as tickets went quickly once they went on sale in September.

Behind a career-high 18 points from Sam Hoiberg and 19 from Pryce Sandfort, Nebraska improved to 3-0 on the season with a 69-50 victory over Maryland-Eastern Shore Tuesday night. 

Hoiberg hit 7-of-10 shots from the field, tied career highs in rebounds (seven) and steals (four) and added four assists without a turnover as he bettered his previous career high of 15 set on two other occasions. 

Sandfort led all scorers with 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting while adding five rebounds, as Nebraska built a 31-point lead in the second half en route to its seventh straight win dating back to last season. 

Nebraska took control of the game in a 12:38 stretch spanning the final four-plus minutes of the first half and 8:08 of the second half, outscoring UMES 37-9 while holding the Hawks to 2-of-20 shooting in that stretch.

• Nebraska extended its win streak to seven games and improved to 4-0 all-time against UMES

• Hoiberg's 18 points topped his previous career high of 15 set two other times, most recently against Lindenwood on Nov. 6, 2023. He has reached double figures in three of NU's last eight contests. 

• Nebraska held Maryland-Eastern Shore to 31.0 percent shooting, the third straight opponent NU has held under 40 percent shooting

The Nebraska men's basketball team hit the road for the first time this season, as the Huskers travel to Sioux Falls, S.D., for a matchup with Oklahoma. Tipoff from a sold-out Sanford Pentagon is set for 6 p.m. (central) and the game will be televised nationally on BTN and carried on the Huskers Radio Network, as well as Huskers.com and on the Huskers app.The Huskers (2-0) used a career night from Sam Hoiberg and a strong defensive effort to down Maryland-Eastern Shore, 69-50, Tuesday night. Hoiberg scored a career-high 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting and tied career highs in rebounds (seven) and steals (four) as the Huskers overcame an off night from 3-point range. NU's defense held the Hawks to 31 percent shooting and forced 16 turnovers. The Huskers limited UMES to a 2-of-20 shooting during a nearly 12-minute stretch in building a 31-point second half lead. Nebraska has been stout on the defensive end, holding all three opponents to under 0.90 points per possession on a combined 33.5 percent shooting.While Hoiberg's performance was the highlight, Nebraska got another strong performance from Pryce Sandfort, as he finished with a game-high 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting and added five rebounds. Sandfort leads a balanced Husker attack at 14.0 ppg while shooting 52 percent from the field and 41 percent from long range while averaging 3.0 3-pointers per contest. Following three straight home games, NU begins a stretch of three straight away from home against an Oklahoma team which won 20 games and reached the NCAA Tournament in 2025. The Sooners are 2-1 on the year after a 95-69 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Tuesday. Xzayvier Brown's 19 points led five Sooners in double figures as Oklahoma shot 57 percent in the second half to pull away down the stretch. One of four first-year transfers in the OU starting lineup, Brown averages a team-high 18.7 points per game to pace a Sooner offense which is averaging 88.3 points per game on 49 percent shooting. Following Saturday's game, the Huskers will play in the Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City next week, taking on New Mexico on Thursday, Nov. 20.Numbers to Know7 - Nebraska has won seven straight games dating back to last season. It is the nation's longest active winning streak and a win over Oklahoma on Saturday would give the Huskers their longest win streak since the 2010-11 season (11 games). 11.0 - Nebraska is averaging 11.0 3-pointers per game to rank sixth in the Big Ten as of Nov. 13. Last year, NU had just 17 3-pointers through the first three contests.3.5 - Over the last seven games dating back to the College Basketball Crown, Sam Hoiberg is averaging 4.0 assists per game with a 3.5-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Hoiberg has double the number of steals (16) than turnovers (eight) in that stretch.3- For just the third time in the Big Ten era (2011-12 to present), Nebraska returns multiple double-figure scorers with Rienk Mast (12.3 ppg in 2023-24) and Connor Essegian (10.7 ppg). In both previous instances (2018-19 and 2024-25), Nebraska has advanced to postseason play. 401 - Nebraska's 2025-26 roster entered the season with 401 career starts at the Division I level. Rienk Mast has 111 starts in his career while Kendall Blue has started 89 times during his career at St. Thomas. .933 - Over the last three-plus seasons, NU is 42-3 when holding foes to under 1.00 PPP and 44-5 when holding opponents to under 70 points. Nebraska has improved its KenPom defensive efficiency in each of the past three seasons..800 - Nebraska is 40-10 under Fred Hoiberg when scoring 80 or more points, including a 31-7 mark over the last three-plus seasons. Of those seven losses since the start of 2022-23, four were in overtime..957 - Nebraska is 22-1 at home in non-conference play over the last three-plus seasons and is 35-9 (.795) at home in non-conference action in Fred Hoiberg's tenure at Nebraska.Worth Noting• Nebraska's seven-game win streak matches the longest win streak for the Huskers under Fred Hoiberg, as NU also won the first seven games of the 2023-24 season. Nebraska is averaging 82.0 ppg on 48 percent shooting during its seven-game win streak and has scored at least 1.00 ppp in all seven contests. • Nebraska is averaging 21.0 assists per game over the first three contests, which is well above NU's first three games totals for each season under Fred Hoiberg. Last year, NU averaged 14.7 assists per game for the season. NU's 2.03 assist-to-turnover ratio is also well above NU's early-season pace after three games • Nebraska had 20-or-more assists in each of its first two games, including 29 against FIU, its highest total since having 35 against Northeastern Illinois on Dec. 21, 1994.• Through three games, Nebraska has seven players who have reached double figures following Sam Hoiberg's 18-point effort on Tuesday. Of those seven players, five had had at least one game of atleast 18 points, including a pair of 20-point efforts (Braden Frager and Pryce Sandfort). • Nebraska has had seven double-digit scoring runs over the first three contests, including three each against West Georgia and FIU. • Nebraska's signing class of Colin Rice and Jacob Lanier is ranked by ESPN as the No. 24 signing class nationally during the early signing period. • Seniors Sam Hoiberg and Jamarques Lawrence are the only players on the Husker roster who played in the 2023 matchup with Oklahoma, as they both played the final 43 seconds against the Sooners.Scouting OklahomaOklahoma comes into Saturday’s game with a 2-1 record following its 95-69 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff Tuesday night. OU opened with a win over St. Francis before falling at No. 21 Gonzaga on theroad last Saturday. The Sooners revamped their roster in the offseason with eight newcomers while three others were on the 2024-25 roster returned after not playing last season. The Sooners are led by a pair of high-scoring guards in Xzayvier Brown and Nijel Pack. Brown was a first-team All-Atlantic-10 pick at St. Joseph’s, where he averaged 17.6 points and 4.3 assists per game in 2024-25. This season, he is leading OU in scoring at 18.7 ppg on 54 percent shooting. Pack, who played previously at Kansas State and Miami, averaged 13.9 ppg in nine starts before suffering a season-ending foot injury last season. He has averaged double figures every year of his college career and is averaging 16.3 ppg. Tae Davis and Derrion Reid give the Sooners four double-figure scorers while Mohamed Wague is grabbed nearly eight rebounds and blocking two shots per game. Head Coach Porter Moser, who played collegiately at Creighton and began his coaching career on the Bluejay staff, is in his fifth season at Oklahoma after previous stops at Arkansas-Little Rock, Illinois State and Loyola-Chicago. Moser guided Loyola-Chicago to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances in his 10 years at the school, including a Final Four in 2018 and a Sweet 16 appearance in 2021. At OU, he has guided the Sooners to consecutive 20-win seasons, including an NCAA Tournament appearance last season. Oklahoma leads the all-time series, 105-83, that began on Jan. 31, 1921. Saturday’s meeting will be the first between the schools since the 2022 ESPN Events Invitational in Orlando, a game the Sooners won 69-56. This is the second non-conference meeting since Nebraska joined the Big Ten in 2011-12, as the schools were conference rivals for 90 years. The matchup with Oklahoma is potentially one of two SEC opponents on the 2025-26 schedule, as Nebraska could face Mississippi State on the second day of the Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City. Painting Sioux Falls Red This WeekendFor the third straight year, Nebraska will be playing a neutral-site game at the Sanford Pentagon when the Huskers take on Oklahoma. It will be a busy Husker basketball weekend, as the Sanford Pentagon will host a women's basketball matchup between Nebraska and North Dakota State on Sunday afternoon. • The Husker men are 2-1 in the building, which hosted its first college game on Nov. 8, 2013. That was also the date of the first game at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Nebraska defeated Oklahoma State (94-74, 12/16/18) and Oregon State (84-63, 11/18/23) before falling to Saint Mary’s (77-74, 11/17/24) last season. • A capacity crowd of 3,200 is expected as tickets went quickly once they went on sale in September.UMES RecapBehind a career-high 18 points from Sam Hoiberg and 19 from Pryce Sandfort, Nebraska improved to 3-0 on the season with a 69-50 victory over Maryland-Eastern Shore Tuesday night. Hoiberg hit 7-of-10 shots from the field, tied career highs in rebounds (seven) and steals (four) and added four assists without a turnover as he bettered his previous career high of 15 set on two other occasions. Sandfort led all scorers with 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting while adding five rebounds, as Nebraska built a 31-point lead in the second half en route to its seventh straight win dating back to last season. Nebraska took control of the game in a 12:38 stretch spanning the final four-plus minutes of the first half and 8:08 of the second half, outscoring UMES 37-9 while holding the Hawks to 2-of-20 shooting in that stretch.Notes from Tuesday's Win• Nebraska extended its win streak to seven games and improved to 4-0 all-time against UMES• Hoiberg's 18 points topped his previous career high of 15 set two other times, most recently against Lindenwood on Nov. 6, 2023. He has reached double figures in three of NU's last eight contests. • Nebraska held Maryland-Eastern Shore to 31.0 percent shooting, the third straight opponent NU has held under 40 percent shooting

Huskers renew rivalry with Oklahoma Saturday night

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. – The fifth-ranked Nebraska Kearney volleyball team warmed up and a got a combined 25 kills from outside hitters Emilee Lane and Carly Purdy to sweep Northwest Missouri (-19, -13, -9) Thursday night at Buckle Court.

The Lopers (25-3, 12-3) are now in a second-place tie with Central Oklahoma in the league standings with Washburn (11-3) right behind and Missouri Western (13-2) right ahead.

Northwest (9-15, 3-12), hoping to get into next week's eight-team MIAA Tournament in St. Joseph, put a fight early on as it was just a 15-14 lead after a kill by junior Gabrielle Gartner.

"We took a pretty good shot from them early and I wasn't surprised. They are playing for their tournament lives so they were sharp. They were hard to stop … I looked down halfway through the first set and they were hitting .500," said Loper head coach Rick Squiers. "They also played good defense almost all the way through the match."

A 'Cats service error made it 20-17 and then back-to-back kills from Purdy (North Platte) and Lane (Hays, Kan.) got UNK to set point. An unforced NW error then made it 1-0 on the scoreboard. In set two, the Lopers out hit the 'Cats by over .200 points while also serving up three aces. Finally, it was a block party in the third (8.00) with redshirt sophomore middle Sydney Davis (Dannebrog) leading the way.

"We outlasted and played super clean and didn't make mistakes. Then we had that big blocking run and that kind of frustrated them and took the fight out of them at the end," said Purdy. "It was two things; obviously Syd Davis can do that. She's that kind of blocker and we see that every day in practice. And Rhyan did a great job of being steady back there (service line). Didn't make an error, didn't let them outta of that rotation."

Lane reached her match-high 14 kills in just 29 swings (.429) with Purdey at 11 and hitting an efficient .333. Next, Davis had 11 stuffs (three solo and eight assisted), junior libero Ellie Spang (Ft. Wayne, Ind.) provided 14 digs and three aces, and graduate setter Peyton Neff (North Platte) totaled 34 assists, 10 digs, and three kills. Finally, sophomore DS Rhyan Mock (Stilwell, Kan.) at seven digs and an ace.

Northwest got 12 digs and six kills from senior RS Kassidy Mohwinkle.

UNK hosts Mo West Friday at 7 p.m. and after the Younes Hospitality MIAA/NSIC Crossover Basketball Tournament. Back in early October, the Lopers used huge rallies in the first and fourth sets to beat the Griffons in five.

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsKearney, Neb. – The fifth-ranked Nebraska Kearney volleyball team warmed up and a got a combined 25 kills from outside hitters Emilee Lane and Carly Purdy to sweep Northwest Missouri (-19, -13, -9) Thursday night at Buckle Court.The Lopers (25-3, 12-3) are now in a second-place tie with Central Oklahoma in the league standings with Washburn (11-3) right behind and Missouri Western (13-2) right ahead.Northwest (9-15, 3-12), hoping to get into next week's eight-team MIAA Tournament in St. Joseph, put a fight early on as it was just a 15-14 lead after a kill by junior Gabrielle Gartner."We took a pretty good shot from them early and I wasn't surprised. They are playing for their tournament lives so they were sharp. They were hard to stop … I looked down halfway through the first set and they were hitting .500," said Loper head coach Rick Squiers. "They also played good defense almost all the way through the match."A 'Cats service error made it 20-17 and then back-to-back kills from Purdy (North Platte) and Lane (Hays, Kan.) got UNK to set point. An unforced NW error then made it 1-0 on the scoreboard. In set two, the Lopers out hit the 'Cats by over .200 points while also serving up three aces. Finally, it was a block party in the third (8.00) with redshirt sophomore middle Sydney Davis (Dannebrog) leading the way."We outlasted and played super clean and didn't make mistakes. Then we had that big blocking run and that kind of frustrated them and took the fight out of them at the end," said Purdy. "It was two things; obviously Syd Davis can do that. She's that kind of blocker and we see that every day in practice. And Rhyan did a great job of being steady back there (service line). Didn't make an error, didn't let them outta of that rotation."Lane reached her match-high 14 kills in just 29 swings (.429) with Purdey at 11 and hitting an efficient .333. Next, Davis had 11 stuffs (three solo and eight assisted), junior libero Ellie Spang (Ft. Wayne, Ind.) provided 14 digs and three aces, and graduate setter Peyton Neff (North Platte) totaled 34 assists, 10 digs, and three kills. Finally, sophomore DS Rhyan Mock (Stilwell, Kan.) at seven digs and an ace.Northwest got 12 digs and six kills from senior RS Kassidy Mohwinkle.UNK hosts Mo West Friday at 7 p.m. and after the Younes Hospitality MIAA/NSIC Crossover Basketball Tournament. Back in early October, the Lopers used huge rallies in the first and fourth sets to beat the Griffons in five.

#5 Lopers sweep Bearcats; #16 Griffons up Friday

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss an exciting victory over Garden City Community College and what he feels his team needs to focus on for the upcoming games.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcast Sponsored By North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl" 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=8bvcj-19c0b89-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=654771&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=1b1b1b" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, Paxton sat down with Jacob Brandl, Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss an exciting victory over Garden City Community College and what he feels his team needs to focus on for the upcoming games.

🎙️ Knight's Weekly #6 2025 featuring North Platte Community College Men's Basketball Coach Jacob Brandl

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska men’s basketball coach Fred Hoiberg announced Wednesday that high school seniors Colin Rice (Waukee, Iowa) and Jacob Lanier (Maumelle, Ark.) have signed to play basketball at the University of Nebraska beginning next fall.  Both Rice and Lanier are ranked among the top 100 seniors in the country and are rated as four-star prospects by many of the major recruiting services.

“We are pleased to add both Colin and Jacob to our program,” Fred Hoiberg said. “It was a priority to find shooting, playmaking and positional size with the number of seniors we have on our roster, and both players can flourish in our system with their respective skillsets. They come from successful programs, both at the high school level and in the AAU ranks, and will have an opportunity to contribute early in their college careers.”

Name   Pos        Ht.         Wt.        Hometown (High School)

Colin Rice          F             6-8         200        Waukee, Iowa (Northwest)

Jacob Lanier     G            6-6         192        Maumelle, Ark. (Parkview Magnet)

Rice is a 6-foot-8, 200-pound forward who plays for Coach Brett Watson at Waukee Northwest High School. He is a four-star prospect who is ranked No. 69 in the class by Rivals, No. 76 by 247Sports and No. 91 by ESPN.  As a junior, Rice led Waukee Northwest to a 23-4 record and a runner-up finish in Class 4A, averaging 12.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 37.8 percent from 3-point range. He garnered 4A all-tournament team accolades after averaging 18.7 points and 11.3 rebounds over three tournament games, including 18 points and 15 rebounds in the 4A championship game. He played for Martin Borthers on the AAU circuit, earning first-team UA Rise honors by averaging 19.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in 16 games this summer. He was the MVP of Session 3 when he averaged 23.6 ppg while hitting on 42.3 percent from 3-point range. He was also selected for the 2025 NBPA Top 100 Camp. Rice selected Nebraska over a host of schools, including Iowa, Illinois and Northwestern.

Hoiberg on Rice: Colin is a versatile wing who can score at all three levels and has the skillset that we are looking for in that position. He can facilitate offense, play in the pick and roll game and can space the floor with his shooting. Colin has very good body control for his size and that helps him play through tight spaces and the length to rebound and make an impact on the defensive end. Colin is someone we have watched develop over the years and is someone who can contribute early to our program.”

Lanier returns to his home state for his senior season as he plays for Parkview Magnet School and Coach Jason Harrison. He is a top-100 recruit by ESPN, 27Sports and Rivals, which ranked him as the No. 2 player in the start of Arkansas. A four-star recruit by ESPN and 247 Sports, he opened his senior year with a 34-point, seven-rebound effort last weekend. Lanier finished his junior season at DME Academy, helping the school win the Sunshine Independent Athletic Association State championship in 2025.  Lanier began his high school career at Maumelle High School, earning all-state honors as a freshman and sophomore, as he averaged 15 points and seven rebounds per game as a freshman.  He played for Gulf Coast Blue Chips on the UAA Circuit this spring, earning first-team honors for the circuit as he averaged 17.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 steals per game.  Lanier was the MVP of the2024 Pangos All American Camp Top 30 all-star game and attended the 2024 USA Basketball Men's Junior National Team April minicamp. Lanier chose Nebraska over other finalists TCU, Ole Miss, East Carolina and Texas State.

Hoiberg on Lanier: “Jacob is a combo guard who does a good job of getting others involved and is a very good shooter. His combination of size, physicality and length show up on the defensive end where he can guard multiple positions. When watching him over the summer, the trait that stands out about Jacob is his competitiveness. He’s a winner who plays with a chip on his shoulder, and we are excited to get him on campus.”

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska men’s basketball coach Fred Hoiberg announced Wednesday that high school seniors Colin Rice (Waukee, Iowa) and Jacob Lanier (Maumelle, Ark.) have signed to play basketball at the University of Nebraska beginning next fall. Both Rice and Lanier are ranked among the top 100 seniors in the country and are rated as four-star prospects by many of the major recruiting services.“We are pleased to add both Colin and Jacob to our program,” Fred Hoiberg said. “It was a priority to find shooting, playmaking and positional size with the number of seniors we have on our roster, and both players can flourish in our system with their respective skillsets. They come from successful programs, both at the high school level and in the AAU ranks, and will have an opportunity to contribute early in their college careers.”Name Pos Ht. Wt. Hometown (High School)Colin Rice F 6-8 200 Waukee, Iowa (Northwest)Jacob Lanier G 6-6 192 Maumelle, Ark. (Parkview Magnet)Rice is a 6-foot-8, 200-pound forward who plays for Coach Brett Watson at Waukee Northwest High School. He is a four-star prospect who is ranked No. 69 in the class by Rivals, No. 76 by 247Sports and No. 91 by ESPN. As a junior, Rice led Waukee Northwest to a 23-4 record and a runner-up finish in Class 4A, averaging 12.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 37.8 percent from 3-point range. He garnered 4A all-tournament team accolades after averaging 18.7 points and 11.3 rebounds over three tournament games, including 18 points and 15 rebounds in the 4A championship game. He played for Martin Borthers on the AAU circuit, earning first-team UA Rise honors by averaging 19.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in 16 games this summer. He was the MVP of Session 3 when he averaged 23.6 ppg while hitting on 42.3 percent from 3-point range. He was also selected for the 2025 NBPA Top 100 Camp. Rice selected Nebraska over a host of schools, including Iowa, Illinois and Northwestern.Hoiberg on Rice: Colin is a versatile wing who can score at all three levels and has the skillset that we are looking for in that position. He can facilitate offense, play in the pick and roll game and can space the floor with his shooting. Colin has very good body control for his size and that helps him play through tight spaces and the length to rebound and make an impact on the defensive end. Colin is someone we have watched develop over the years and is someone who can contribute early to our program.”Lanier returns to his home state for his senior season as he plays for Parkview Magnet School and Coach Jason Harrison. He is a top-100 recruit by ESPN, 27Sports and Rivals, which ranked him as the No. 2 player in the start of Arkansas. A four-star recruit by ESPN and 247 Sports, he opened his senior year with a 34-point, seven-rebound effort last weekend. Lanier finished his junior season at DME Academy, helping the school win the Sunshine Independent Athletic Association State championship in 2025. Lanier began his high school career at Maumelle High School, earning all-state honors as a freshman and sophomore, as he averaged 15 points and seven rebounds per game as a freshman. He played for Gulf Coast Blue Chips on the UAA Circuit this spring, earning first-team honors for the circuit as he averaged 17.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Lanier was the MVP of the2024 Pangos All American Camp Top 30 all-star game and attended the 2024 USA Basketball Men's Junior National Team April minicamp. Lanier chose Nebraska over other finalists TCU, Ole Miss, East Carolina and Texas State.Hoiberg on Lanier: “Jacob is a combo guard who does a good job of getting others involved and is a very good shooter. His combination of size, physicality and length show up on the defensive end where he can guard multiple positions. When watching him over the summer, the trait that stands out about Jacob is his competitiveness. He’s a winner who plays with a chip on his shoulder, and we are excited to get him on campus.”

Nebraska MBB: Huskers announce signings of Rice and Lanier

Nebraska head coach Rhonda Revelle announced the addition of seven athletes to the 2026 roster. The class includes one homegrown Husker, two California athletes and one player each from Washington, Texas, Missouri and Colorado. NU’s 2026 signees consist of four infielders, an outfielder, a catcher and a pitcher.

“We love so much about this class,” Revelle said. “They are athletic and competitive and love to win. They are team-first players who are all “N” on coming to Nebraska and are on a mission to do big things for the Red Team.”

Cali Bentz was a second-team Class B All-State member for both the Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha World-Herald in 2023 and earned honorable mention All-State in both 2022 and 2024. She was a four-time first-team All-Conference selection for Lakeview High School. 

Bentz, a pitcher, owns Lakeview single-season records for game strikeouts, hits, batting average, home runs, innings pitched and total strikeouts. She was a four-year captain in high school and was named to the Triple Crown Sports Nationals All-Tournament Team while playing club ball for Nebraska Gold.

Revelle on Bentz: “Cali, a homegrown Husker, continues to add to the native Nebraskans in the circle for the Red Team. Cali has an excellent drop ball and mixes speed well. The sky is the limit for this right-handed pitcher, as she has the talent and desire to make an immediate impact for our team. We have full belief that Cali will be a constant fixture in our pitching rotation.”

Kali Bogart (Lees Summit West - Aces Fastpitch) 

Kali Bogart, an infielder, was a national champion with her 18U Aces Fastpitch club team in 2024 and was co-MVP on that team. She played three years of high school ball at Lees Summit West after spending her freshman year at Oak Park High School. Bogart was a four-time All-Conference selection in high school and was named to the All-Region, All-District and All-State teams in her sophomore, junior and senior years.

Bogart was a four-sport athlete in high school, as she also participated in cheer, flag football and basketball. She earned state championships in flag football and cheer and a national championship in cheer.

Revelle on Bogart: “Kali is a competitive multi-sport athlete that plays the game with a lot of intensity and confidence. You feel Kali’s competitive, winning spirit all around the team. Kali is a poised athlete who brings a lot of offensive power to the plate. We anticipate her stepping right in and competing at a high level for the Red Team.”

Infielder Katelyn Crosby hails from Reedy High School in Frisco, Texas, where she was named the District 12-5A Defensive Player of the Year in 2025. She also earned District 9-5A Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024 and earned District 9-5A honorable mention in 2023. 

Crosby was also an Academic All-District team member in 2024 and 2025. 

Revelle on Crosby: “Katelyn is an athletic infielder with smooth hands and an excellent arm. She loves the game and is the kind of teammate that everyone loves and leans on as she is always bringing positivity and lifting others. Katelyn has the potential to develop into an elite infielder, and we are excited to get her on the dirt and working for the Red Team.”

Brooke Lebsock (Martin Luther King - Corona Angels) 

Brooke Lebsock hails from Riverside, Calif., where she went to Martin Luther King High School and played club ball for the Corona Angels. The catcher was an All-League Big VIII Team member in 2023 and 2024 and earned All-CIF Southern Section Division 3 honors in 2024. Also in 2024, she was a member of the Inland Empire Varsity second team. 

Lebsock was named to the Big League Dreams Invitational All-Tournament team in 2025, representing her Corona Angels club squad.

Revelle on Lebsock: “Brooke is a catcher who can also play a corner position. She has a strong arm and hits for power. She will add immediate depth and strength to all those positions. Brooke has played the game at a very high level and that experience will help her adjust to the speed of the college game. It will be exciting to watch her develop and grow.”

Jaime Oakland (Saint Francis - CA Nuggets) 

A native of San Jose, Calif., outfielder Jaime Oakland was a three-time WCAL Player of the Year for Saint Francis High School. She was also a three-time WCAL first-team selection and a three-time member of the Mercury News All-County Softball first team from 2023-2025. 

Oakland was named the Cal High School Sports Player of the Year in 2023 and was a CalHiSports first-team All-State honoree the same year. She was recognized as a CalHiSports second-team member in 2024 and 2025. 

Revelle on Oakland: “Jaime is a dynamic and speedy triple-threat offensive player who adds a new wrinkle to our offensive weaponry. She is also a smart and gifted outfielder that makes difficult plays look easy. Jaime can change the game on both sides of the ball, and we are looking forward to getting Jaime in the scarlet and cream.”

Lucy Thompson (Legend - Colorado Batbusters) 

A four-year letterwinner for Legend High School in Colorado, Lucy Thompson was a first-team All-State honoree her senior year and was on the All-State second team her junior year. The infielder also earned an honorable mention her sophomore year. 

Thompson was a four-time All-Conference team member, including three years on the first team, and was the Continental League Player of the Year her senior year. Thompson earned a varsity golden glove all four years of high school. 

Revelle on Thompson: “This fiery athlete packs a punch as she will do whatever it takes to win. A student of the game, Lucy can beat an opponent with her glove, her bat, her speed, or her heady play. Simply put, Lucy is fun to watch as she plays the game at one speed—all out. In addition, Lucy’s Nebraska roots run deep as she has many family members from Nebraska or living in Nebraska.” 

Shelby Southard (Cedar Park Christian - AI Bandits) inf

Shelby Southard hails from Snohomish, Wash., where she was the Washington 1A Player of the Year and the Emerald Sound Conference Player of the Year in 2025. She was also the Emerald Sound Conference Player of the Year in 2024, along with being named to the Washington first-team All-State list.

Southard earned first-team Emerald Sound Conference honors in 2023 and was a two-time Northwest Fastpitch League/Alliance Player of the Month.

Revelle on Southard: “Shelby is coming to Nebraska with a polished and electric defensive skillset. She is a feisty and energetic competitor that will infuse energy into Bowlin Stadium. A natural leader, we look for Shelby to make her presence known immediately, both on the field and as a leader.”

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska head coach Rhonda Revelle announced the addition of seven athletes to the 2026 roster. The class includes one homegrown Husker, two California athletes and one player each from Washington, Texas, Missouri and Colorado. NU’s 2026 signees consist of four infielders, an outfielder, a catcher and a pitcher.“We love so much about this class,” Revelle said. “They are athletic and competitive and love to win. They are team-first players who are all “N” on coming to Nebraska and are on a mission to do big things for the Red Team.”Cali Bentz (Lakeview - Nebraska Gold) Cali Bentz was a second-team Class B All-State member for both the Lincoln Journal Star and Omaha World-Herald in 2023 and earned honorable mention All-State in both 2022 and 2024. She was a four-time first-team All-Conference selection for Lakeview High School. Bentz, a pitcher, owns Lakeview single-season records for game strikeouts, hits, batting average, home runs, innings pitched and total strikeouts. She was a four-year captain in high school and was named to the Triple Crown Sports Nationals All-Tournament Team while playing club ball for Nebraska Gold.Revelle on Bentz: “Cali, a homegrown Husker, continues to add to the native Nebraskans in the circle for the Red Team. Cali has an excellent drop ball and mixes speed well. The sky is the limit for this right-handed pitcher, as she has the talent and desire to make an immediate impact for our team. We have full belief that Cali will be a constant fixture in our pitching rotation.”Kali Bogart (Lees Summit West - Aces Fastpitch) Kali Bogart, an infielder, was a national champion with her 18U Aces Fastpitch club team in 2024 and was co-MVP on that team. She played three years of high school ball at Lees Summit West after spending her freshman year at Oak Park High School. Bogart was a four-time All-Conference selection in high school and was named to the All-Region, All-District and All-State teams in her sophomore, junior and senior years.Bogart was a four-sport athlete in high school, as she also participated in cheer, flag football and basketball. She earned state championships in flag football and cheer and a national championship in cheer.Revelle on Bogart: “Kali is a competitive multi-sport athlete that plays the game with a lot of intensity and confidence. You feel Kali’s competitive, winning spirit all around the team. Kali is a poised athlete who brings a lot of offensive power to the plate. We anticipate her stepping right in and competing at a high level for the Red Team.”Katelyn Crosby (Reedy - Hotshots) Infielder Katelyn Crosby hails from Reedy High School in Frisco, Texas, where she was named the District 12-5A Defensive Player of the Year in 2025. She also earned District 9-5A Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024 and earned District 9-5A honorable mention in 2023. Crosby was also an Academic All-District team member in 2024 and 2025. Revelle on Crosby: “Katelyn is an athletic infielder with smooth hands and an excellent arm. She loves the game and is the kind of teammate that everyone loves and leans on as she is always bringing positivity and lifting others. Katelyn has the potential to develop into an elite infielder, and we are excited to get her on the dirt and working for the Red Team.”Brooke Lebsock (Martin Luther King - Corona Angels) Brooke Lebsock hails from Riverside, Calif., where she went to Martin Luther King High School and played club ball for the Corona Angels. The catcher was an All-League Big VIII Team member in 2023 and 2024 and earned All-CIF Southern Section Division 3 honors in 2024. Also in 2024, she was a member of the Inland Empire Varsity second team. Lebsock was named to the Big League Dreams Invitational All-Tournament team in 2025, representing her Corona Angels club squad.Revelle on Lebsock: “Brooke is a catcher who can also play a corner position. She has a strong arm and hits for power. She will add immediate depth and strength to all those positions. Brooke has played the game at a very high level and that experience will help her adjust to the speed of the college game. It will be exciting to watch her develop and grow.”Jaime Oakland (Saint Francis - CA Nuggets) A native of San Jose, Calif., outfielder Jaime Oakland was a three-time WCAL Player of the Year for Saint Francis High School. She was also a three-time WCAL first-team selection and a three-time member of the Mercury News All-County Softball first team from 2023-2025. Oakland was named the Cal High School Sports Player of the Year in 2023 and was a CalHiSports first-team All-State honoree the same year. She was recognized as a CalHiSports second-team member in 2024 and 2025. Revelle on Oakland: “Jaime is a dynamic and speedy triple-threat offensive player who adds a new wrinkle to our offensive weaponry. She is also a smart and gifted outfielder that makes difficult plays look easy. Jaime can change the game on both sides of the ball, and we are looking forward to getting Jaime in the scarlet and cream.”Lucy Thompson (Legend - Colorado Batbusters) A four-year letterwinner for Legend High School in Colorado, Lucy Thompson was a first-team All-State honoree her senior year and was on the All-State second team her junior year. The infielder also earned an honorable mention her sophomore year. Thompson was a four-time All-Conference team member, including three years on the first team, and was the Continental League Player of the Year her senior year. Thompson earned a varsity golden glove all four years of high school. Revelle on Thompson: “This fiery athlete packs a punch as she will do whatever it takes to win. A student of the game, Lucy can beat an opponent with her glove, her bat, her speed, or her heady play. Simply put, Lucy is fun to watch as she plays the game at one speed—all out. In addition, Lucy’s Nebraska roots run deep as she has many family members from Nebraska or living in Nebraska.” Shelby Southard (Cedar Park Christian - AI Bandits) infShelby Southard hails from Snohomish, Wash., where she was the Washington 1A Player of the Year and the Emerald Sound Conference Player of the Year in 2025. She was also the Emerald Sound Conference Player of the Year in 2024, along with being named to the Washington first-team All-State list.Southard earned first-team Emerald Sound Conference honors in 2023 and was a two-time Northwest Fastpitch League/Alliance Player of the Month.Revelle on Southard: “Shelby is coming to Nebraska with a polished and electric defensive skillset. She is a feisty and energetic competitor that will infuse energy into Bowlin Stadium. A natural leader, we look for Shelby to make her presence known immediately, both on the field and as a leader.”

NEB SB: Huskers ink seven for 2026

Nebraska soccer head coach John Walker signed seven new athletes for the 2026 season, the program announced Wednesday. The class consists of three forwards, three midfielders and one defender. 

Emma Donnelly, a Canada native, trained at NDC Ontario under head coach Melissa Bigg. Donnelly was a member of the U17 Canada FIFA Women’s World Cup team and the U17 Canada Women’s CONCACAF team in 2025. Her U17 FIFA World Cup team fell to Brazil in the quarterfinals in 2025. Her club team grabbed a first-place finish in League One Ontario in 2024 and a third place finish in the league in 2025. Donnelly intends to major in exercise science at Nebraska.

Donnelly on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the amazing coaching staff and program of the women’s soccer team, the beautiful campus, the exercise science program and the homey university environment.”

Maggie Drozda played high school soccer at St. Joseph’s Academy under head coach Maureen McVey and club ball for SLSG ECNL Navy under head coach Ralph Richards. Her high school squad was 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer district champions and 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer Class 3 state champions. Drozda herself was the 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer Class 3 All-Region Offensive Player of the Year and was on the All-Metro First Team the same year. She was a member of the All-Metro Second Team in 2024 and was a three-time GISL All-Conference, two-time Class 3 All-State, two-time Missouri Girls Soccer All-District and two-time Class 3 Region 1 All-Region honoree. Drozda’s club team made the playoffs every year from 2020-2025 and went to the Sweet 16 in 2025 and the Elite 8 in 2022. She is undecided on her major at NU.

Drozda on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because I immediately felt at home on campus. I fell in love with the environment and everything about the soccer program. I think the people here are amazing and creating something so special that I cannot wait to be part of!”

Kate Eggett, a homegrown Husker, was a three-time letterwinner at Lincoln East High School with head coach Emily Mathews. In her time with the Spartans, they were three-time distinct champs and made the state quarterfinals twice and the semifinals once. In 2025, Eggett was a member of the Omaha World-Herald and Lincoln Journal Star All-Nebraska team and Super-State second team. She was also a member of the Class A All-State first team and the All-Heartland area conference first team. In 2024, she earned honorable mention on the All-Nebraska and Class A All-State teams. Her club team at Gretna Elite Academy was a 2025 Champions League qualifier at the ECNL National Playoffs, while she earned first-team ECNL Midwest All-Conference honors in 2024-25 and was on the second team in 2023-24. Eggett plans to major in nutrition and health sciences.

Eggett on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because I grew up in Lincoln, watching and cheering on the Huskers. Playing college soccer has always been a passion of mine, and Nebraska's competitive soccer program and strong academics makes it the right place for me.”

Midfielder Addy Jones played club soccer for St. Louis Scott Gallagher under head coach Ralph Richards. Her team was the two-time ECNL Midwest Conference champions and an ECNL Elite 8 Qualifier. Jones was a team captain and an All-Conference second team selection.

Jones on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because the campus is so beautiful and full of amazing energy. Everyone is friendly, and it feels like such a positive place to be. The facilities are outstanding too, everything is built to help students do their best. It just feels like a place where great things happen.”

Isabel Kiser played high school soccer at Lincoln Southwest for head coach Thomas Nettleton and club ball at Gretna Elite Academy for head coach Jon Brezenski. Lincoln Southwest was state champion in 2024 and 2025 and state runner-up in 2023. Kiser was on the Lincoln Journal Star Super-State second team and the LJS All-State team in 2025. In 2024, she was a second-team Class A All-State team member. Kiser earned an All-State honorable mention as a freshman in 2023.

Kiser on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because from the start, it just felt like home. Coach John Walker and the whole program made such a strong impression on me about their culture. The way they care about their players really stood out. The facilities are incredible, and the fans are so supportive. Everything about Nebraska just feels right, and I'm so excited to be a part of it.”

Paige Miller, a forward from Elkhorn, Neb., was a three-year letterwinner at Omaha Marian High School. She owns the Marian single-season record with 29 goals in a year. Her team was the Class A runner-up at state in 2025 and made the semifinals in 2024 and the quarterfinals in 2023. Individually, she was on the Omaha World-Herald All-State first team in 2024 and 2025 and the Class A first team in 2023. Miller was the 2025 OWH All-Metro Conference honorary captain, while being a three-time All-Metro Conference first-team honoree. Her club team at Gretna Elite Academy was a Champions League Qualifier in 2023 and 2024 and a ECNL North American Cup Qualifier in 2022. Individually, she was on the 2025 ECNL Midwest All-Conference first team in 2025 and the second team in 2024. 

Miller on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the amazing team culture, the facilities, and the athletic support. Also, being close to home and playing in my home state was really important to me.”

Emma Reda competed on the U17 Canadian World Cup Team in 2025 and was on the U17 Canadian Women’s National Team CONCACAF roster. She played club ball for the National Development Centre of Ontario under head coach Melissa Bigg. Miller was the 2025 League 1 Premier Division Midfielder of the Year and was on the division’s All-Star first team in the same year. Her club team was the League 1 Premier Division champion and took third place at the Canadian Interprovincials in 2024.

Reda on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the balance between high-level, competitive soccer, and excellent academics. I felt that Nebraska offered every resource necessary for athletes to succeed on the field and in the classroom. The coaching staff's focus on both individual development and team success creates an environment I believe will allow me to thrive. During my official visit, I could instantly tell that the culture within the team was incredibly positive and welcoming, which assures me that it will be a seamless transition from club to college soccer. The facilities are also outstanding and there are endless resources to assist athletes in any way they may need. I truly believe Nebraska is the place to be, and the place that will help me grow as an athlete and an individual. I am very grateful for the opportunity to play soccer at Nebraska and cannot wait to begin.”

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska soccer head coach John Walker signed seven new athletes for the 2026 season, the program announced Wednesday. The class consists of three forwards, three midfielders and one defender. Emma DonnellyBill Crothers Secondary SchoolToronto, Ontario, Canada DefenderEmma Donnelly, a Canada native, trained at NDC Ontario under head coach Melissa Bigg. Donnelly was a member of the U17 Canada FIFA Women’s World Cup team and the U17 Canada Women’s CONCACAF team in 2025. Her U17 FIFA World Cup team fell to Brazil in the quarterfinals in 2025. Her club team grabbed a first-place finish in League One Ontario in 2024 and a third place finish in the league in 2025. Donnelly intends to major in exercise science at Nebraska.Donnelly on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the amazing coaching staff and program of the women’s soccer team, the beautiful campus, the exercise science program and the homey university environment.”Maggie DrozdaSt. Joseph’s AcademySt. Louis, Mo.ForwardMaggie Drozda played high school soccer at St. Joseph’s Academy under head coach Maureen McVey and club ball for SLSG ECNL Navy under head coach Ralph Richards. Her high school squad was 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer district champions and 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer Class 3 state champions. Drozda herself was the 2025 Missouri Girls Soccer Class 3 All-Region Offensive Player of the Year and was on the All-Metro First Team the same year. She was a member of the All-Metro Second Team in 2024 and was a three-time GISL All-Conference, two-time Class 3 All-State, two-time Missouri Girls Soccer All-District and two-time Class 3 Region 1 All-Region honoree. Drozda’s club team made the playoffs every year from 2020-2025 and went to the Sweet 16 in 2025 and the Elite 8 in 2022. She is undecided on her major at NU.Drozda on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because I immediately felt at home on campus. I fell in love with the environment and everything about the soccer program. I think the people here are amazing and creating something so special that I cannot wait to be part of!”Kate EggettLincoln East High SchoolLincoln, Neb.ForwardKate Eggett, a homegrown Husker, was a three-time letterwinner at Lincoln East High School with head coach Emily Mathews. In her time with the Spartans, they were three-time distinct champs and made the state quarterfinals twice and the semifinals once. In 2025, Eggett was a member of the Omaha World-Herald and Lincoln Journal Star All-Nebraska team and Super-State second team. She was also a member of the Class A All-State first team and the All-Heartland area conference first team. In 2024, she earned honorable mention on the All-Nebraska and Class A All-State teams. Her club team at Gretna Elite Academy was a 2025 Champions League qualifier at the ECNL National Playoffs, while she earned first-team ECNL Midwest All-Conference honors in 2024-25 and was on the second team in 2023-24. Eggett plans to major in nutrition and health sciences.Eggett on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because I grew up in Lincoln, watching and cheering on the Huskers. Playing college soccer has always been a passion of mine, and Nebraska's competitive soccer program and strong academics makes it the right place for me.”Addy JonesFrancis Howell North High SchoolSt. Charles, Mo.MidfielderMidfielder Addy Jones played club soccer for St. Louis Scott Gallagher under head coach Ralph Richards. Her team was the two-time ECNL Midwest Conference champions and an ECNL Elite 8 Qualifier. Jones was a team captain and an All-Conference second team selection.Jones on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because the campus is so beautiful and full of amazing energy. Everyone is friendly, and it feels like such a positive place to be. The facilities are outstanding too, everything is built to help students do their best. It just feels like a place where great things happen.”Isabel KiserLincoln Southwest High SchoolLincoln, Neb.MidfielderIsabel Kiser played high school soccer at Lincoln Southwest for head coach Thomas Nettleton and club ball at Gretna Elite Academy for head coach Jon Brezenski. Lincoln Southwest was state champion in 2024 and 2025 and state runner-up in 2023. Kiser was on the Lincoln Journal Star Super-State second team and the LJS All-State team in 2025. In 2024, she was a second-team Class A All-State team member. Kiser earned an All-State honorable mention as a freshman in 2023.Kiser on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because from the start, it just felt like home. Coach John Walker and the whole program made such a strong impression on me about their culture. The way they care about their players really stood out. The facilities are incredible, and the fans are so supportive. Everything about Nebraska just feels right, and I'm so excited to be a part of it.”Paige MillerMarian High SchoolElkhorn, Neb.ForwardPaige Miller, a forward from Elkhorn, Neb., was a three-year letterwinner at Omaha Marian High School. She owns the Marian single-season record with 29 goals in a year. Her team was the Class A runner-up at state in 2025 and made the semifinals in 2024 and the quarterfinals in 2023. Individually, she was on the Omaha World-Herald All-State first team in 2024 and 2025 and the Class A first team in 2023. Miller was the 2025 OWH All-Metro Conference honorary captain, while being a three-time All-Metro Conference first-team honoree. Her club team at Gretna Elite Academy was a Champions League Qualifier in 2023 and 2024 and a ECNL North American Cup Qualifier in 2022. Individually, she was on the 2025 ECNL Midwest All-Conference first team in 2025 and the second team in 2024. Miller on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the amazing team culture, the facilities, and the athletic support. Also, being close to home and playing in my home state was really important to me.”Emma RedaHoly Cross Catholic AcademyToronto, Ontario, CanadaMidfielderEmma Reda competed on the U17 Canadian World Cup Team in 2025 and was on the U17 Canadian Women’s National Team CONCACAF roster. She played club ball for the National Development Centre of Ontario under head coach Melissa Bigg. Miller was the 2025 League 1 Premier Division Midfielder of the Year and was on the division’s All-Star first team in the same year. Her club team was the League 1 Premier Division champion and took third place at the Canadian Interprovincials in 2024.Reda on Nebraska: “I chose Nebraska because of the balance between high-level, competitive soccer, and excellent academics. I felt that Nebraska offered every resource necessary for athletes to succeed on the field and in the classroom. The coaching staff's focus on both individual development and team success creates an environment I believe will allow me to thrive. During my official visit, I could instantly tell that the culture within the team was incredibly positive and welcoming, which assures me that it will be a seamless transition from club to college soccer. The facilities are also outstanding and there are endless resources to assist athletes in any way they may need. I truly believe Nebraska is the place to be, and the place that will help me grow as an athlete and an individual. I am very grateful for the opportunity to play soccer at Nebraska and cannot wait to begin.”

NEB Women's Soccer: Walker adds seven for 2026

Story by NU Athletic Communication

Nebraska signed a trio of top-100 high school seniors from the Midwest on the opening day of the national signing period on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Ashlyn Koupal (South Dakota), Ava Miles (Missouri) and Maddi Stewart (Oklahoma) plan to join Nebraska Head Coach Amy Williams and the Huskers as true freshmen for the 2026-27 campaign.

"We are thrilled that these three talented, hard-working, driven young women have chosen to join our Husker family," Williams said. "Ashlyn, Ava and Maddi each bring the skills, intelligence, character and work ethic to thrive as Huskers and will be instrumental in helping us continue to raise the bar in our program."

One of the highest ranked recruits in Husker history, Koupal (pronounced KO-pull) is the No. 22 player in the current ESPN Top 100. The 6-3 forward from Wagner, S.D., was also ranked as a five-star recruit as the No. 10 player in the current 247 Sports rankings (No. 13 composite), as the No. 3 power forward in the nation. Koupal was the Gatorade South Dakota High School Player of the Year as a junior after averaging 22.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 2.3 steals and 3.5 blocks in leading Wagner to the state tournament. It was her third straight season averaging better than 20 points per game. She also produced one quadruple-double, two triple-doubles and 10 double-doubles as a junior. A three-time all-state selection, Koupal helped Wagner to a Class A state runner-up finish as a sophomore in 2023. Koupal is also an outstanding student, carrying a 4.0 GPA.

Koupal, who chose Nebraska over Duke, Kansas, Michigan State and TCU, was one of 45 high school players from across the country invited to the 2025 USA Basketball Junior National Team minicamp during the NCAA Women's Final Four. Entering her senior season, Koupal has amassed 1,939 points, 860 rebounds, 364 assists, 189 steals and 287 blocks.&nbsp;

An outstanding all-around athlete, Koupal won her fifth consecutive South Dakota Class A state high jump championship as a junior in 2025. She also notched 12 kills to help the Red Raider volleyball team clinch a berth in the 2025 South Dakota Class A state tournament on Tuesday night.

"Ashlyn has great versatility, which makes her a dangerous threat to score both inside and out," Williams said. "She makes those around her better with her ability to pass and defend at a high level. She has a strong desire to be great, and the work ethic to match. She is going to have a tremendous career as a Husker."

A four-star recruit who was ranked No. 69 nationally by ESPN and No. 70 by 247 Sports, Miles was ranked as the No. 14 shooting guard in the country by 247 Sports. The No. 3 ranked recruit in the state of Missouri, Miles, who committed to Nebraska in July of 2025, led Staley to a Class 6 runner-up finish with a 29-2 record by averaging 14.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.8 steals per game as a junior. She also hit 50.1 percent of her shots from the floor, including 33.3 percent of her three-point attempts for the Falcons.

A three-time adidas All-American, Miles is a two-time all-state selection and a three-time all-district and all-conference choice. She was the 2025 Greater Kansas City Conference Player of the Year.

"Ava is an outstanding all-around player who is going to bring energy to the court and the locker room every day," Williams said. "She is a high-level communicator with the ability to create in transition and score at all three levels. She is willing to do all the little things to help her team win. Husker fans are going to love watching her energy and enthusiasm on the court."

Miles said she chose Nebraska over Maryland and Michigan State because the Husker program felt special.

"It truly is the only place that felt like home," Miles said. "I knew that no matter how my day was, that I would find peace and joy with this program. God told me this is where I needed to go, and I know this program is very, very special."&nbsp;

Stewart, a 5-9 guard from Claremore, Okla., is the No. 80 recruit in the country and the No. 16 shooting guard according to 247 Sports. She is also No. 100 nationally by ESPN. Stewart averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 steals while leading Lincoln Christian High School to the 2025 Class 4A state championship. She shot 46 percent from the field and 82 percent at the free line for the Bulldogs, while eclipsing 1,000 career points early in her junior season.

Stewart, who committed to Nebraska in mid-August, was the unanimous MVP of the Oklahoma Class 4A state tournament after getting 20 points and 12 rebounds in the state championship game. The two-time first-team all-state selection was named the MVP of the Pinnacle Conference while playing for her coach and mother, Melody, who was named the state high school coach of the year by the Tulsa World. It was Lincoln Christian's third straight trip to the state finals, but its first state championship.

"We are so excited about what Maddi brings to the Husker program," Williams said. "She is a winner! She is also a tough, gritty player who can shoot from outside and create off the dribble. As the daughter of a coach, she brings a high basketball IQ with her and a real desire to grow as a player and person to help her team win championships."

Stewart, who chose Nebraska over Oklahoma, Missouri and Oklahoma State, said the Husker program provided a strong sense of belonging.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationNebraska signed a trio of top-100 high school seniors from the Midwest on the opening day of the national signing period on Wednesday, Nov. 12.Ashlyn Koupal (South Dakota), Ava Miles (Missouri) and Maddi Stewart (Oklahoma) plan to join Nebraska Head Coach Amy Williams and the Huskers as true freshmen for the 2026-27 campaign."We are thrilled that these three talented, hard-working, driven young women have chosen to join our Husker family," Williams said. "Ashlyn, Ava and Maddi each bring the skills, intelligence, character and work ethic to thrive as Huskers and will be instrumental in helping us continue to raise the bar in our program."One of the highest ranked recruits in Husker history, Koupal (pronounced KO-pull) is the No. 22 player in the current ESPN Top 100. The 6-3 forward from Wagner, S.D., was also ranked as a five-star recruit as the No. 10 player in the current 247 Sports rankings (No. 13 composite), as the No. 3 power forward in the nation. Koupal was the Gatorade South Dakota High School Player of the Year as a junior after averaging 22.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 2.3 steals and 3.5 blocks in leading Wagner to the state tournament. It was her third straight season averaging better than 20 points per game. She also produced one quadruple-double, two triple-doubles and 10 double-doubles as a junior. A three-time all-state selection, Koupal helped Wagner to a Class A state runner-up finish as a sophomore in 2023. Koupal is also an outstanding student, carrying a 4.0 GPA.Koupal, who chose Nebraska over Duke, Kansas, Michigan State and TCU, was one of 45 high school players from across the country invited to the 2025 USA Basketball Junior National Team minicamp during the NCAA Women's Final Four. Entering her senior season, Koupal has amassed 1,939 points, 860 rebounds, 364 assists, 189 steals and 287 blocks.&nbsp;An outstanding all-around athlete, Koupal won her fifth consecutive South Dakota Class A state high jump championship as a junior in 2025. She also notched 12 kills to help the Red Raider volleyball team clinch a berth in the 2025 South Dakota Class A state tournament on Tuesday night."Ashlyn has great versatility, which makes her a dangerous threat to score both inside and out," Williams said. "She makes those around her better with her ability to pass and defend at a high level. She has a strong desire to be great, and the work ethic to match. She is going to have a tremendous career as a Husker."A four-star recruit who was ranked No. 69 nationally by ESPN and No. 70 by 247 Sports, Miles was ranked as the No. 14 shooting guard in the country by 247 Sports. The No. 3 ranked recruit in the state of Missouri, Miles, who committed to Nebraska in July of 2025, led Staley to a Class 6 runner-up finish with a 29-2 record by averaging 14.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.8 steals per game as a junior. She also hit 50.1 percent of her shots from the floor, including 33.3 percent of her three-point attempts for the Falcons.A three-time adidas All-American, Miles is a two-time all-state selection and a three-time all-district and all-conference choice. She was the 2025 Greater Kansas City Conference Player of the Year."Ava is an outstanding all-around player who is going to bring energy to the court and the locker room every day," Williams said. "She is a high-level communicator with the ability to create in transition and score at all three levels. She is willing to do all the little things to help her team win. Husker fans are going to love watching her energy and enthusiasm on the court."Miles said she chose Nebraska over Maryland and Michigan State because the Husker program felt special."It truly is the only place that felt like home," Miles said. "I knew that no matter how my day was, that I would find peace and joy with this program. God told me this is where I needed to go, and I know this program is very, very special."&nbsp;Stewart, a 5-9 guard from Claremore, Okla., is the No. 80 recruit in the country and the No. 16 shooting guard according to 247 Sports. She is also No. 100 nationally by ESPN. Stewart averaged 14.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 steals while leading Lincoln Christian High School to the 2025 Class 4A state championship. She shot 46 percent from the field and 82 percent at the free line for the Bulldogs, while eclipsing 1,000 career points early in her junior season.Stewart, who committed to Nebraska in mid-August, was the unanimous MVP of the Oklahoma Class 4A state tournament after getting 20 points and 12 rebounds in the state championship game. The two-time first-team all-state selection was named the MVP of the Pinnacle Conference while playing for her coach and mother, Melody, who was named the state high school coach of the year by the Tulsa World. It was Lincoln Christian's third straight trip to the state finals, but its first state championship."We are so excited about what Maddi brings to the Husker program," Williams said. "She is a winner! She is also a tough, gritty player who can shoot from outside and create off the dribble. As the daughter of a coach, she brings a high basketball IQ with her and a real desire to grow as a player and person to help her team win championships."Stewart, who chose Nebraska over Oklahoma, Missouri and Oklahoma State, said the Husker program provided a strong sense of belonging.

Huskers sign trio of Top 100 Recruits

The Nebraska volleyball program and Head Coach Dani Busboom Kelly on Wednesday announced the addition of three talented players who will join the Huskers in 2026.

The Huskers secured the signatures of three of the top prospects in the nation. They are outside hitter Gabby DiVita (Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich.), outside/opposite hitter Jayden Robinson (Missouri City, Texas), and middle blocker Keoni Williams (Fort Worth, Texas). 

All three plan to enroll at Nebraska in January.

Gabby DiVita, 6-1, Outside Hitter, Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich. (Grosse Pointe South/Legacy)

• Selected to compete in the Under Armour Next All-America Game in January 2026

• Was a four-time AAU All-American and won the AAU 15U national title with her club, Legacy

• Won the 16U Triple Crown title and was named MVP in 2024 

• Served as captain for the U.S. National Team Development Program

• Was a three-time JVA All-National Team selection and a three-time USAV All-Tournament Team member

• Named a Prep Volleyball All-American two times 

• Played for her mother, Janeil, at Grosse Pointe South High School in Michigan

• Named to the 2025 AVCA Player of the Year Watch List

• Named a 2024 AVCA High School All-American

• Chosen as a finalist for the 2025 Michigan Miss Volleyball Award

• Was a four-time all-state selection and Macomb Area Conference MVP

• As a senior, averaged 5.8 kills per set with a .420 hitting percentage, along with 3.8 digs per set and 49 service aces to lead the Blue Devils to a district title

• Amassed more than 2,000 career kills and 1,100 career digs - both school records

• Ranked the No. 19 overall prospect by PrepDig and No. 20 by PrepVolleyball

"Gabby is a really high-level six-rotation player. She has a great arm and volleyball IQ, and her serve receive and back-row play have always been a strength of her game. Gabby comes from the same club as Harper Murray and Campbell Flynn (Legacy), so we've developed a pretty good relationship with them. Gabby is a coach's kid and has always wanted to be a Husker, and we are fortunate to have her join our program."

Jayden Robinson, 6-3, Outside/Opposite Hitter, Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point/Houston Skyline)

• Won the gold medal with the U.S. U19 National Team at the 2024 NORCECA Continental Championship

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationThe Nebraska volleyball program and Head Coach Dani Busboom Kelly on Wednesday announced the addition of three talented players who will join the Huskers in 2026.The Huskers secured the signatures of three of the top prospects in the nation. They are outside hitter Gabby DiVita (Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich.), outside/opposite hitter Jayden Robinson (Missouri City, Texas), and middle blocker Keoni Williams (Fort Worth, Texas). All three plan to enroll at Nebraska in January.2026 Nebraska Volleyball Signing ClassGabby DiVita, 6-1, Outside Hitter, Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich. (Grosse Pointe South/Legacy)• Selected to compete in the Under Armour Next All-America Game in January 2026• Was a four-time AAU All-American and won the AAU 15U national title with her club, Legacy• Won the 16U Triple Crown title and was named MVP in 2024 • Served as captain for the U.S. National Team Development Program• Was a three-time JVA All-National Team selection and a three-time USAV All-Tournament Team member• Named a Prep Volleyball All-American two times • Played for her mother, Janeil, at Grosse Pointe South High School in Michigan• Named to the 2025 AVCA Player of the Year Watch List• Named a 2024 AVCA High School All-American• Chosen as a finalist for the 2025 Michigan Miss Volleyball Award• Was a four-time all-state selection and Macomb Area Conference MVP• As a senior, averaged 5.8 kills per set with a .420 hitting percentage, along with 3.8 digs per set and 49 service aces to lead the Blue Devils to a district title• Amassed more than 2,000 career kills and 1,100 career digs - both school records• Ranked the No. 19 overall prospect by PrepDig and No. 20 by PrepVolleyballCoach Dani Busboom Kelly:"Gabby is a really high-level six-rotation player. She has a great arm and volleyball IQ, and her serve receive and back-row play have always been a strength of her game. Gabby comes from the same club as Harper Murray and Campbell Flynn (Legacy), so we've developed a pretty good relationship with them. Gabby is a coach's kid and has always wanted to be a Husker, and we are fortunate to have her join our program."Jayden Robinson, 6-3, Outside/Opposite Hitter, Missouri City, Texas (Ridge Point/Houston Skyline)• Selected to compete in the Under Armour Next All-America Game in January 2026• Won the gold medal with the U.S. U19 National Team at the 2024 NORCECA Continental Championship• Was a U.S. U19 National Team member for the 2025 FIVB Women's U21 World Championships in Indonesia • Played club volleyball for Houston Skyline• Won the 17 Open USAV Girls Junior National Championships gold medal in 2025 and was named to the All-Tournament Team• Earned club first-team All-America honors in 2025• Claimed the 15 Open bronze medal at the 2023 USAV GJNC• Was named her club's Offensive Player of the Year in 2024 and 2025, and Breakout Player in 2023• Attended Ridge Point High School in Missouri City, Texas• Named to the 2025 AVCA Player of the Year Watch List• Named a 2024 AVCA High School All-American• Earned District 21-6A MVP honors in 2025 and was a three-time all-district honoree• Was a two-time District 21-6A Blocker of the Year• In her senior season in 2025, led Ridge Point to a 33-14 record and a district title• Averaged 5.0 kills per set with a .381 hitting percentage, as well as 2.9 digs per set and 45 service aces• Ranked the No. 10 overall prospect by PrepVolleyball and No. 12 by PrepDigCoach Dani Busboom Kelly:"Jayden is a very physical pin player. She has experience playing on the left pin in club and high school, and she's played opposite for Team USA. Jayden is a physical attacker and blocker and can hit out of the back row as well. We're excited to see how her all-around game translates to the college level. She's one of the big-time athletes in this class and comes from a very athletic family. Jayden has really developed her skill set and we are thrilled to have her."Keoni Williams, 6-4, Middle Blocker, Fort Worth, Texas (Eagle Mountain/Dallas Skyline)• Pronounced key-AW-knee• Selected to compete in the Under Armour Next All-America Game in January 2026• Was a U.S. U19 National Team member for the 2025 FIVB Women's U21 World Championships in Indonesia • With her club, Dallas Skyline, won the gold medal at USAV Girls Junior National Championships 15 Open in 2023• Was named to the All-Tournament Team and MVP following her club national title• Also won the 13 Open club national championship with Frisco Flyers in 2021• Named to the 2025 AVCA Player of the Year Watch List• Won the Triple Crown title with Dallas Skyline in 2023 and was an All-Tournament selection• Was named district Blocker of the Year in 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was a two-time Dallas Skyline MVP• Chosen to the AAU Girls Junior National Championship All-Tournament Team in 2023-24• Earned Texas all-state honors following her sophomore and junior seasons• Has led Eagle Mountain High School to the Texas 4A Division 2 state semifinals to be played on Nov. 15• In her senior season, averaging 3.5 kills per set with a .553 hitting percentage, along with 1.3 blocks per set• As a freshman at Boswell High School, broke the school record for blocks in a season with 185• Ranked the No. 8 overall prospect by PrepDig and No. 10 by PrepVolleyballCoach Dani Busboom Kelly:"Keoni is an extremely athletic middle blocker. She moves very well laterally across the net, which is important for a middle. We're impressed with her physicality, and her attacking arm has really developed. Keoni has played for some very good club teams in the Dallas area, and she was able to go to the World Championships this past summer. She's one of the top middles in this class, and we're happy she chose to be a Husker."