Four Huskers to play in NBA 2K26 Summer League

Kearney, Neb. – Nebraska Kearney head football coach Ryan Held announced updates to his 2025 coaching staff today.

Earning promotions are Tim Schaffner (to head assistant coach), Tyler Harris (to offensive coordinator) and Nate Wills (from graduate assistant to full-time status) and joining the Lopers are Colten Gaines (graduate assistant) and Courtney Ledyard (part-time assistant).Schaffner is the Lopers defensive coordinator and secondary coach. His defense has ranked among the MIAA's best each of the past two years with end Quillan Felton earning 2024 All-American honors. The former Butler (Kan.) C.C. d-coordinator and head coach replaces Colby Ellis in the HAC position. Ellis left the Lopers in the spring for a position at his alma mater, Oklahoma State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Coach Shaffener is a great coach, and this new title will help me as a head coach in many ways continue to grow our program to new heights," said Held.Harris came to UNK last season after a successful tenure coaching receivers at his alma mater, Emporia State. He also leads the Loper receivers and saw his group have 122 catches for 1,496 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024. In 2025, he'll have room full of newcomers and led by veterans Tyler Perry (Trenton, Fla.), Zane Schawang (Waverly) and Tavis Maloy (Douglasville, Ga.). "Tyler is an up-and-coming rising star in the profession, and I felt he could to this role and help grow our offense to be much improved in 2025 and beyond," said Held.&nbsp;

Willis has spent the past two years as one of UNK's graduate assistants and leading the corner backs. He'll continue to coach a position group that had five interceptions, 10 pass breakups and 117 tackles last fall to help the Lopers rank third in the MIAA in scoring defense. In 2023, the former Kentucky Wildcat saw Armani Webster earn All-MIAA honors with Kendall Brewer being one of the MIAA's best in 2024. "Coach Willis is another rising star in the profession, and I felt we needed him to be full-time and help grow and mentor the defensive back room," said Held.

Next, Gaines comes to UNK from FCS-member Tennessee-Chattanooga where he worked in video operations and recruiting the past two seasons. At Knoxville Catholic High School, he was a quarterback for the Fighting Irish and led the team to the 2022 state Division II-AA semifinals. He'll work with the Loper tight ends; Riley Myers (running back) returns as UNK's other GA. Finally, Ledyard will be an assistant defensive line coach working under Jake Mandelko. The Cleveland, Ohio, native was a defensive lineman and both Highland (Kan.) C.C. and Division II Southwestern Oklahoma State where he played for current Loper linebackers coach Ruzell McCoy. He totaled 58 tackles (12.5 TFL's) over 21 games for the Bulldogs.

UNK will have two other part-time assistant coaches in Reagan Jones (quarterbacks) and Corey Hoelck (offensive line). Jones moved from player to coach this past winter with Hoelck, a former Loper All-American and professional player, once again a member of the staff. They work under Held (QB's &amp; TE's) and Nate Baker (offensive line).The Lopers report to fall camp on Aug. 1 with the 2025 season opener set for Aug. 28 (Thurs.) at Wayne State. It'll be the first regular season meeting with the Wildcats since 2011; the two held a spring scrimmage in 2022.&nbsp;

Kearney, Neb. – Nebraska Kearney head football coach Ryan Held announced updates to his 2025 coaching staff today.Earning promotions are Tim Schaffner (to head assistant coach), Tyler Harris (to offensive coordinator) and Nate Wills (from graduate assistant to full-time status) and joining the Lopers are Colten Gaines (graduate assistant) and Courtney Ledyard (part-time assistant).Schaffner is the Lopers defensive coordinator and secondary coach. His defense has ranked among the MIAA's best each of the past two years with end Quillan Felton earning 2024 All-American honors. The former Butler (Kan.) C.C. d-coordinator and head coach replaces Colby Ellis in the HAC position. Ellis left the Lopers in the spring for a position at his alma mater, Oklahoma State.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751458187303.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"Coach Shaffener is a great coach, and this new title will help me as a head coach in many ways continue to grow our program to new heights," said Held.Harris came to UNK last season after a successful tenure coaching receivers at his alma mater, Emporia State. He also leads the Loper receivers and saw his group have 122 catches for 1,496 yards and nine touchdowns in 2024. In 2025, he'll have room full of newcomers and led by veterans Tyler Perry (Trenton, Fla.), Zane Schawang (Waverly) and Tavis Maloy (Douglasville, Ga.). "Tyler is an up-and-coming rising star in the profession, and I felt he could to this role and help grow our offense to be much improved in 2025 and beyond," said Held.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751458210821.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Willis has spent the past two years as one of UNK's graduate assistants and leading the corner backs. He'll continue to coach a position group that had five interceptions, 10 pass breakups and 117 tackles last fall to help the Lopers rank third in the MIAA in scoring defense. In 2023, the former Kentucky Wildcat saw Armani Webster earn All-MIAA honors with Kendall Brewer being one of the MIAA's best in 2024. "Coach Willis is another rising star in the profession, and I felt we needed him to be full-time and help grow and mentor the defensive back room," said Held.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751458263568.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Next, Gaines comes to UNK from FCS-member Tennessee-Chattanooga where he worked in video operations and recruiting the past two seasons. At Knoxville Catholic High School, he was a quarterback for the Fighting Irish and led the team to the 2022 state Division II-AA semifinals. He'll work with the Loper tight ends; Riley Myers (running back) returns as UNK's other GA. Finally, Ledyard will be an assistant defensive line coach working under Jake Mandelko. The Cleveland, Ohio, native was a defensive lineman and both Highland (Kan.) C.C. and Division II Southwestern Oklahoma State where he played for current Loper linebackers coach Ruzell McCoy. He totaled 58 tackles (12.5 TFL's) over 21 games for the Bulldogs.UNK will have two other part-time assistant coaches in Reagan Jones (quarterbacks) and Corey Hoelck (offensive line). Jones moved from player to coach this past winter with Hoelck, a former Loper All-American and professional player, once again a member of the staff. They work under Held (QB's &amp; TE's) and Nate Baker (offensive line).The Lopers report to fall camp on Aug. 1 with the 2025 season opener set for Aug. 28 (Thurs.) at Wayne State. It'll be the first regular season meeting with the Wildcats since 2011; the two held a spring scrimmage in 2022.&nbsp;

UNK Football: Staff Promotions & Additions Announced

Story by NU Athletic Communication

Nebraska men's golf has added NCAA Division II transfer Bryson Oots to its 2025-26 roster, Head Coach Judd Cornell announced on Monday, July 1.

Oots, a two-time PING All-Midwest Region selection at William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo., produced a team-best 72.17 stroke average over 34 rounds for the Cardinals last season. He also captured four individual tournament titles in 2024-25 on his way to a second consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional.

Over his three seasons at William Jewell, Oots posted a 73.22 stroke average over 86 rounds while winning six individual tournament titles. He fired career-best rounds of 66 on two occasions.

"Bryson has had an outstanding career at William Jewell and has earned the right to play at the Division I level," Cornell said. "He will be a great fit for our competitiveness and will give us a great shot in the arm. I'm extremely happy for him and excited that he's going to be a Husker."

A two-time first-team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference performer, Oots was the GLVC Player of the Year in 2024-25. He was also an Academic All-GLVC selection last season. Oots was the Missouri Class 5 state champion as a senior at Staley High School in 2021-22. A two-time all-state selection, Oots was also the Kenneth Smith Award winner, which is presented annually to the best boys high school golfer in the Kansas City area.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationNebraska men's golf has added NCAA Division II transfer Bryson Oots to its 2025-26 roster, Head Coach Judd Cornell announced on Monday, July 1.Oots, a two-time PING All-Midwest Region selection at William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo., produced a team-best 72.17 stroke average over 34 rounds for the Cardinals last season. He also captured four individual tournament titles in 2024-25 on his way to a second consecutive trip to the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751458091411.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Over his three seasons at William Jewell, Oots posted a 73.22 stroke average over 86 rounds while winning six individual tournament titles. He fired career-best rounds of 66 on two occasions."Bryson has had an outstanding career at William Jewell and has earned the right to play at the Division I level," Cornell said. "He will be a great fit for our competitiveness and will give us a great shot in the arm. I'm extremely happy for him and excited that he's going to be a Husker."A two-time first-team All-Great Lakes Valley Conference performer, Oots was the GLVC Player of the Year in 2024-25. He was also an Academic All-GLVC selection last season. Oots was the Missouri Class 5 state champion as a senior at Staley High School in 2021-22. A two-time all-state selection, Oots was also the Kenneth Smith Award winner, which is presented annually to the best boys high school golfer in the Kansas City area.

Huskers add Bryson Oots for 2025-26

In conjunction with the AVCA and FOX, the Nebraska volleyball program announced the start times and TV information for three more regular-season matches on Monday.&nbsp;

The Huskers will open the regular season in the AVCA First Serve at Pinnacle Bank Arena against Pittsburgh on Friday, Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. (CT) on FOX. Nebraska will also face Stanford in the AVCA First Serve on Sunday, Aug. 24 at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN. Limited tickets for all four days of the event are still available for purchase through Ticketmaster.

In addition to the release of the AVCA First Serve schedule, FOX also announced that Nebraska's match at defending national champion Penn State on Oct. 3 will air on FOX at 7 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;

The Big Red now has five nationally televised matches on the schedule. NU plays Kentucky at the Broadway Block Party in Nashville, Tenn. on Sunday, Aug. 31 at 11 a.m. (CT) on ABC. The Huskers will battle Minnesota on the road on Saturday, Nov. 8 on NBC.&nbsp;

The composite Big Ten volleyball television schedule will be announced in conjunction with Big Ten Volleyball Media Days July 28-29.&nbsp;

Friday, Aug. 22 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)

Saturday, Aug. 23 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)

4 p.m. — Creighton vs. Penn State (FS1)

Sunday, Aug. 24 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)

2:30 p.m. — Stanford vs. Nebraska (ESPN)

Monday, Aug. 25 (Sioux Falls, S.D. - Sanford Pentagon)

5:30 p.m. — Kansas vs. Penn State (Big Ten Network)

7:30 p.m. — Minnesota vs. Texas A&amp;M (Big Ten Network)

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationIn conjunction with the AVCA and FOX, the Nebraska volleyball program announced the start times and TV information for three more regular-season matches on Monday.&nbsp;The Huskers will open the regular season in the AVCA First Serve at Pinnacle Bank Arena against Pittsburgh on Friday, Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. (CT) on FOX. Nebraska will also face Stanford in the AVCA First Serve on Sunday, Aug. 24 at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN. Limited tickets for all four days of the event are still available for purchase through Ticketmaster.In addition to the release of the AVCA First Serve schedule, FOX also announced that Nebraska's match at defending national champion Penn State on Oct. 3 will air on FOX at 7 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;The Big Red now has five nationally televised matches on the schedule. NU plays Kentucky at the Broadway Block Party in Nashville, Tenn. on Sunday, Aug. 31 at 11 a.m. (CT) on ABC. The Huskers will battle Minnesota on the road on Saturday, Nov. 8 on NBC.&nbsp;The composite Big Ten volleyball television schedule will be announced in conjunction with Big Ten Volleyball Media Days July 28-29.&nbsp;AVCA First Serve ScheduleFriday, Aug. 22 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)6 p.m. — Pittsburgh vs. Nebraska (FOX)8 p.m. — Florida vs. Stanford (FOX)Saturday, Aug. 23 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)2 p.m. — Kansas vs. Vanderbilt (FS1)4 p.m. — Creighton vs. Penn State (FS1)Sunday, Aug. 24 (Lincoln, Neb. - Pinnacle Bank Arena)Noon — Florida vs. Pittsburgh (ESPN)2:30 p.m. — Stanford vs. Nebraska (ESPN)Monday, Aug. 25 (Sioux Falls, S.D. - Sanford Pentagon)5:30 p.m. — Kansas vs. Penn State (Big Ten Network)7:30 p.m. — Minnesota vs. Texas A&amp;M (Big Ten Network)All times listed are Central

Volleyball selected for three more National TV Broadcasts

Former Nebraska All-American Brice Matthews was selected by Major League Baseball for the 2025 All-Star Futures Game.

Matthews will join a group of 25 prospects on the American League roster that will go against 25 prospects on the National League roster on July 12 at Atlanta’s Truist Park. The game will be televised nationally on the MLB Network at 3 p.m. CT.

A first-round pick with the No. 28 overall selection in 2023, Matthews is slashing .285/.403/.492 with 11 doubles, five triples, 10 home runs, 39 RBI and 23 stolen bases at Triple-A Sugar Land in the Houston Astros organization. He is currently tied for second in the Pacific Coast League in triples, third in stolen bases, tied for fifth in walks and 10th in OBP among qualified batters.

Former Nebraska All-American Brice Matthews was selected by Major League Baseball for the 2025 All-Star Futures Game.Matthews will join a group of 25 prospects on the American League roster that will go against 25 prospects on the National League roster on July 12 at Atlanta’s Truist Park. The game will be televised nationally on the MLB Network at 3 p.m. CT.A first-round pick with the No. 28 overall selection in 2023, Matthews is slashing .285/.403/.492 with 11 doubles, five triples, 10 home runs, 39 RBI and 23 stolen bases at Triple-A Sugar Land in the Houston Astros organization. He is currently tied for second in the Pacific Coast League in triples, third in stolen bases, tied for fifth in walks and 10th in OBP among qualified batters.

Matthews selected for All-Star Futures Game

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Nebraska volleyball program has announced the details for its 2025 Fan Day, Red-White Scrimmage and Alumni Match.

Nebraska's Volleyball Fan Day will take place on Saturday, Aug. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. This year's Volleyball Fan Day will be limited to 2,000 fans in order to get all fans through the autograph line. The Nebraska Athletic Department will offer 2,000 free tickets that can be claimed at Huskers.com/Tickets on Monday, July 28 at 10 a.m. Fan Day tickets will be non-transferable.&nbsp;

The Red-White Scrimmage will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9 with doors opening at 1 p.m. A tiered on-sale through the Huskers Athletic Fund Ranking System begins on Monday, July 7 at 9 a.m., general public at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Nebraska's inaugural Alumni Match will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16 with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. A tiered on-sale through the Huskers Athletic Fund Ranking System begins on Thursday, July 10 at 9 a.m., general public at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

TV information for the two preseason scrimmages, as well as which alumni will be participating in the Aug. 16 scrimmage, will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;

For Fan Day, all tickets will be mobile and must be scanned for admission. A maximum quantity of four tickets can be claimed per account. Fans will use only the North concourse doors to enter the building, and the doors will open at 9 a.m. Free parking will be available in Lots 58 and 60. All fans will be asked to exit the Devaney Center and clear their vehicles from the parking lots in between Fan Day and the Red-White Scrimmage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Autograph tables will be set up on the concourse of the Devaney Center, and a single autograph line will extend around the concourse of the building. One item per person may be signed. Posters for the season will be available as well. In an effort to get all fans through the line, no pictures will be permitted with the coaches and players. Concessions will be open for fans to purchase drinks or candy, and the Huskers Store on the concourse will be open as well.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska volleyball program has announced the details for its 2025 Fan Day, Red-White Scrimmage and Alumni Match.Nebraska's Volleyball Fan Day will take place on Saturday, Aug. 9 from 9 to 11 a.m. This year's Volleyball Fan Day will be limited to 2,000 fans in order to get all fans through the autograph line. The Nebraska Athletic Department will offer 2,000 free tickets that can be claimed at Huskers.com/Tickets on Monday, July 28 at 10 a.m. Fan Day tickets will be non-transferable.&nbsp;The Red-White Scrimmage will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 9 with doors opening at 1 p.m. A tiered on-sale through the Huskers Athletic Fund Ranking System begins on Monday, July 7 at 9 a.m., general public at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;Nebraska's inaugural Alumni Match will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16 with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. A tiered on-sale through the Huskers Athletic Fund Ranking System begins on Thursday, July 10 at 9 a.m., general public at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;TV information for the two preseason scrimmages, as well as which alumni will be participating in the Aug. 16 scrimmage, will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;For Fan Day, all tickets will be mobile and must be scanned for admission. A maximum quantity of four tickets can be claimed per account. Fans will use only the North concourse doors to enter the building, and the doors will open at 9 a.m. Free parking will be available in Lots 58 and 60. All fans will be asked to exit the Devaney Center and clear their vehicles from the parking lots in between Fan Day and the Red-White Scrimmage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Autograph tables will be set up on the concourse of the Devaney Center, and a single autograph line will extend around the concourse of the building. One item per person may be signed. Posters for the season will be available as well. In an effort to get all fans through the line, no pictures will be permitted with the coaches and players. Concessions will be open for fans to purchase drinks or candy, and the Huskers Store on the concourse will be open as well.

Volleyball announces details for Fan Day, Preseason Scrimmages

NORTH PLATTE – Lane Foote, a sophomore, and Phoenix Brown, a freshman at North Platte High School have earned positions on the Nebraska National High School rodeo team and will be traveling with fellow teammates to Rock Springs, Wyoming July 13–19 to compete at the 77th annual National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR). Lane will compete in Reined Cow Horse and Phoenix in the Pole Bending competition.

Featuring more than 1,800 contestants from 44 states, five Canadian Provinces, Australia, Mexico, New Zealand, and Guatemala, the NHSFR is the world’s largest rodeo. In addition to competing for more than $150,000 in prizes and over $200,000 in added money, NHSFR contestants will also be competing for more than $375,000 in college scholarships and the chance to be named an NHSFR World Champion. To earn this title, contestants must finish in the top 20 — based on their combined times/scores in the first two rounds — to advance to Saturday evening’s final round. World champions will then be determined based on their three-round combined times/scores.

Again, this year, the Saturday championship performance will be televised nationally as a part of the Cinch High School Rodeo Tour telecast series. LIVE broadcasts of each NHSFR performance will air online at <a href="http://www.thecowboychannel.com">www.thecowboychannel.com</a>. Performance times begin @ 7pm on July 13th and competition continues daily at 9am and 7pm through July 19th. Make sure to catch the action!

Along with great rodeo competition and the chance to meet new friends from around the world, NHSFR contestants have the opportunity to enjoy volleyball, contestant dances, family-oriented activities, church services sponsored by Golden Spur Ministries, and shopping at the NHSFR tradeshow.

To follow your local favorites at the NHSFR, visit NHSRA.com daily for complete results. For ticket information, visit <a>https://www.sweetwaterevents.com/p/nhsfr/tickets</a>.

NORTH PLATTE – Lane Foote, a sophomore, and Phoenix Brown, a freshman at North Platte High School have earned positions on the Nebraska National High School rodeo team and will be traveling with fellow teammates to Rock Springs, Wyoming July 13–19 to compete at the 77th annual National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR). Lane will compete in Reined Cow Horse and Phoenix in the Pole Bending competition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751029030167.jpeg" alt="NHSFR Lane Foote" />
 <figcaption>NHSFR Lane Foote</figcaption>
 </figure>Featuring more than 1,800 contestants from 44 states, five Canadian Provinces, Australia, Mexico, New Zealand, and Guatemala, the NHSFR is the world’s largest rodeo. In addition to competing for more than $150,000 in prizes and over $200,000 in added money, NHSFR contestants will also be competing for more than $375,000 in college scholarships and the chance to be named an NHSFR World Champion. To earn this title, contestants must finish in the top 20 — based on their combined times/scores in the first two rounds — to advance to Saturday evening’s final round. World champions will then be determined based on their three-round combined times/scores.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751029105165.jpeg" alt="NHSRA Phoenix Brown" />
 <figcaption>NHSRA Phoenix Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>Again, this year, the Saturday championship performance will be televised nationally as a part of the Cinch High School Rodeo Tour telecast series. LIVE broadcasts of each NHSFR performance will air online at <a href="http://www.thecowboychannel.com">www.thecowboychannel.com</a>. Performance times begin @ 7pm on July 13th and competition continues daily at 9am and 7pm through July 19th. Make sure to catch the action!Along with great rodeo competition and the chance to meet new friends from around the world, NHSFR contestants have the opportunity to enjoy volleyball, contestant dances, family-oriented activities, church services sponsored by Golden Spur Ministries, and shopping at the NHSFR tradeshow.To follow your local favorites at the NHSFR, visit NHSRA.com daily for complete results. For ticket information, visit <a>https://www.sweetwaterevents.com/p/nhsfr/tickets</a>.

Local Student Qualify to compete at world's largest rodeo

The Nebraska men’s basketball team will face New Mexico in the opening round of the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic, as the NABC announced the tournament pairings on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Huskers, coming off a 21-14 season and a championship in the College Basketball Crown, will face a New Mexico team that went 27-8 and reached the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Head Coach Eric Olen is in his first season after leading UC San Diego to the 2025 NCAA Tournament

This is only the second time that Nebraska and New Mexico have squared off on the hardwood and the first since the 2009 NIT, an 83-71 New Mexico win in in Albuquerque.

Tipoff for the Nov. 20 matchup is set for 6 p.m. (central) and the game will be streamed live on Peacock and <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.nbcsports.com/now?utm_tags=nbcs1163__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!Ev474q1t95404lcRR5WS-MT_IA7kASascuELMZDkL50bRp0uAwSLg7eKuZwFAsJbrzQmgyyQqIhKQUj6KQAoQNev2BwdtP-f$">NBC Sports NOW</a>. The other first-round matchup will feature Kansas State and Mississippi State and that game will tip off at 8:30 p.m.&nbsp; The consolation and title games will take place the following night, as both games will be streamed on Peacock and on NBC Sports Now.

Tickets for the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic will go on sale via the T-Mobile Center box office and t-mobilecenter.com on Sept. 3.

Nebraska returns five letterwinners from a team that went 21-14 in 2024-25. The group includes returning starters Berke Büyüktuncel and Sam Hoiberg, along with senior guard Connor Essegian, who averaged 10.7 ppg off the bench last season.&nbsp; The Huskers also regain the services of two other significant contributors to the 2024 NCAA Tournament team in All-Big Ten forward senior Rienk Mast, who averaged 12.3 points and led NU in both rebounding (7.5 rpg) and assists (3.0 apg) and Jamarques Lawrence, who played in all 34 games at NU in 2023-24 and averaged 6.9 points and 2.5 assists per game before playing at Rhode Island last season.

Lawrence (9.9 ppg at Rhode Island) is part of a six-member transfer class which includes Kendall Blue (12.3 pp, 4.4 rpg at St. Thomas), Will Cooper (5.3 ppg at Air Force) Jared Garcia (9.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg at Tulsa), Ugnius Jarusevicius (16.2 ppg, 7.3 rpg at Central Michigan) and Pryce Sandfort (8.8 ppg at Iowa). Nebraska also adds a pair of freshmen who are among the nation’s top 125 recruits in Leo Curtis (CATS Academy) and Quentin Rhymes (Hillcrest Prep).

Nebraska vs. New Mexico – 6:00 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOW

Kansas State vs. Mississippi State – 8:30 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOW

Consolation Game – 6:00 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOW

Championship Game – 8:30 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOW

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationThe Nebraska men’s basketball team will face New Mexico in the opening round of the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic, as the NABC announced the tournament pairings on Thursday.&nbsp;The Huskers, coming off a 21-14 season and a championship in the College Basketball Crown, will face a New Mexico team that went 27-8 and reached the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Head Coach Eric Olen is in his first season after leading UC San Diego to the 2025 NCAA TournamentThis is only the second time that Nebraska and New Mexico have squared off on the hardwood and the first since the 2009 NIT, an 83-71 New Mexico win in in Albuquerque.Tipoff for the Nov. 20 matchup is set for 6 p.m. (central) and the game will be streamed live on Peacock and <a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://www.nbcsports.com/now?utm_tags=nbcs1163__;!!PvXuogZ4sRB2p-tU!Ev474q1t95404lcRR5WS-MT_IA7kASascuELMZDkL50bRp0uAwSLg7eKuZwFAsJbrzQmgyyQqIhKQUj6KQAoQNev2BwdtP-f$">NBC Sports NOW</a>. The other first-round matchup will feature Kansas State and Mississippi State and that game will tip off at 8:30 p.m.&nbsp; The consolation and title games will take place the following night, as both games will be streamed on Peacock and on NBC Sports Now.Tickets for the 2025 Hall of Fame Classic will go on sale via the T-Mobile Center box office and t-mobilecenter.com on Sept. 3.Nebraska returns five letterwinners from a team that went 21-14 in 2024-25. The group includes returning starters Berke Büyüktuncel and Sam Hoiberg, along with senior guard Connor Essegian, who averaged 10.7 ppg off the bench last season.&nbsp; The Huskers also regain the services of two other significant contributors to the 2024 NCAA Tournament team in All-Big Ten forward senior Rienk Mast, who averaged 12.3 points and led NU in both rebounding (7.5 rpg) and assists (3.0 apg) and Jamarques Lawrence, who played in all 34 games at NU in 2023-24 and averaged 6.9 points and 2.5 assists per game before playing at Rhode Island last season.Lawrence (9.9 ppg at Rhode Island) is part of a six-member transfer class which includes Kendall Blue (12.3 pp, 4.4 rpg at St. Thomas), Will Cooper (5.3 ppg at Air Force) Jared Garcia (9.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg at Tulsa), Ugnius Jarusevicius (16.2 ppg, 7.3 rpg at Central Michigan) and Pryce Sandfort (8.8 ppg at Iowa). Nebraska also adds a pair of freshmen who are among the nation’s top 125 recruits in Leo Curtis (CATS Academy) and Quentin Rhymes (Hillcrest Prep).2025 Hall of Fame Classic (All times CT)Thursday, Nov. 20Nebraska vs. New Mexico – 6:00 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOWKansas State vs. Mississippi State – 8:30 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOWFriday, Nov. 21Consolation Game – 6:00 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOWChampionship Game – 8:30 p.m., Peacock/NBC Sports NOW

Huskers to face Lobos in Hall of Fame Classic

Nebraska swimmers Gena Jorgenson and Beatrix Tanko will represent the Huskers and their home countries at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Berlin, Germany (July 16-27).

Jorgenson, a senior-to-be from Aberdeen, S.D., earned an invitation to represent the United States after her fifth-place finish in the 1,500-meter freestyle (16:19.28) at the Toyota USA Championships in Indianapolis. A two-time All-American in the 1,650-yard free for the Huskers at the NCAA Championships (2024, 2025), Jorgenson added a sixth-place finish in the 800-meter free (8:33.79) and a seventh-place finish in the 400-meter free (4:11.96) at the USA Championships. All three swims set school records and lifetime bests for Jorgenson. She added a fourth school record by taking 21st in the 200-meter backstroke (2:12.79) at nationals.

Tanko, a junior-to-be for the Big Red from Budapest, Hungary, earned a roster spot for the Hungarian team at the World University Games after winning gold in the 50-meter butterfly (27:04), while adding silvers in the 50-meter freestyle (25.58) and the 100 butterfly (1:00.67) at the Hungarian National Championships in mid-April.

"We are proud to have two Huskers qualify for the World University Games," Nebraska Head Coach Pablo Morales said. "It is always our goal to have our student-athletes represent Nebraska and their national teams at the highest levels. Gena and Beatrix have worked hard for this honor and have been preparing well for the Games. We are definitely looking forward to watching them compete at a global championship."

The swimming competition at the World University Games in Berlin is set to begin July 17 and continue through July 23.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationNebraska swimmers Gena Jorgenson and Beatrix Tanko will represent the Huskers and their home countries at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Berlin, Germany (July 16-27).Jorgenson, a senior-to-be from Aberdeen, S.D., earned an invitation to represent the United States after her fifth-place finish in the 1,500-meter freestyle (16:19.28) at the Toyota USA Championships in Indianapolis. A two-time All-American in the 1,650-yard free for the Huskers at the NCAA Championships (2024, 2025), Jorgenson added a sixth-place finish in the 800-meter free (8:33.79) and a seventh-place finish in the 400-meter free (4:11.96) at the USA Championships. All three swims set school records and lifetime bests for Jorgenson. She added a fourth school record by taking 21st in the 200-meter backstroke (2:12.79) at nationals.Tanko, a junior-to-be for the Big Red from Budapest, Hungary, earned a roster spot for the Hungarian team at the World University Games after winning gold in the 50-meter butterfly (27:04), while adding silvers in the 50-meter freestyle (25.58) and the 100 butterfly (1:00.67) at the Hungarian National Championships in mid-April."We are proud to have two Huskers qualify for the World University Games," Nebraska Head Coach Pablo Morales said. "It is always our goal to have our student-athletes represent Nebraska and their national teams at the highest levels. Gena and Beatrix have worked hard for this honor and have been preparing well for the Games. We are definitely looking forward to watching them compete at a global championship."The swimming competition at the World University Games in Berlin is set to begin July 17 and continue through July 23.

Jorgenson, Tanko Earn Trips to World University Games

On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, we welcome back Jacob Brandl, the Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss offseason recruiting and how he is feeling after a long recruiting offseason as well as his thoughts on the upcoming schedule and so much more.

<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="(Audio) Knight's Weekly #11 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=ek7q3-18eb2a5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>On today's episode of Knight's Weekly, we welcome back Jacob Brandl, the Head Coach of the North Platte Community College Men's Basketball team, to discuss offseason recruiting and how he is feeling after a long recruiting offseason as well as his thoughts on the upcoming schedule and so much more.

(Audio) Knight's Weekly #11 Recruiting special featuring Coach Jacob Brandl Head Coach for NPCC Men's team

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information Director

CHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College and athletic director Mannie Reinsch have announced the hiring of Jalen Little to lead the CSC women's basketball program as head coach. Little will be the 12th head coach in program history and the sixth in the program's Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)/Division II history.

Little brings nearly a decade of coaching experience within the RMAC and will be a familiar name for many CSC fans after serving as an assistant for the Chadron State men's basketball program from 2016-2020 under former Eagles coach Houston Reed. 

"It is an incredible honor to be named the head coach of Chadron State College women's basketball," Little said. "Thank you to Mannie Reinsch and the search committee for the opportunity to be part of a culture that values community and relationships in addition to competitive excellence. I'm looking forward to building something special with our student-athletes, both on and off the court. We will Protect the Rock!" 

For the past five seasons, Little has served as the lead assistant women's basketball coach at RMAC foe CSU Pueblo. During Little's time on staff, the ThunderWolves qualified for four consecutive RMAC tournaments from 2022-25, including a fifth-place finish (18-11, 13-7 RMAC) in the league standings last year. He was instrumental in recruiting Alisha Little, the two-time reigning RMAC Defensive Player of the Year who ranked second in Division II in scoring last season with 24.9 points per game. 

"I'd like to welcome Jalen and his family back to Chadron, Nebraska," Reinsch said. "Throughout the process, Jalen showcased his energy and passion for developing our student-athletes and building his culture the right way. After growing in his career and learning from some great leaders, I'm excited to see Jalen put his footprint on our women's basketball program."

Little began his coaching career by spending four seasons as an assistant coach with the Chadron State men's basketball program under Houston Reed, who coached Little as a player. During Little's tenure, the Eagles had seven All-RMAC selections and 22 All-Academic Honor Roll selections.

"Houston Reed's belief in me and bringing me to Chadron laid out an unbelievable foundation for me as a coach," Little said. "He allowed me to find my coaching voice and showed me what pouring into student-athletes at an elite level looked like."

At CSU Pueblo, Little and head coach Tommie Johnson orchestrated a 20-win turnaround for the ThunderWolves in 2021-22, which was tied for the best in the NCAA that year. After the ThunderWolves went 3-13 in a COVID-19 impacted 2020-21 season, CSU Pueblo rallied to a 23-9 record the next year, highlighted by a third-place RMAC regular season finish, runner-up finish in the RMAC Tournament and a berth in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. 

"Learning from Tommie Johnson for the past five seasons was a blessing," Little said. "He always showed what it looked like to aim high in recruiting and the value of genuine relationships. He made my transition from coaching the men's side to the women's side seamless, and I wouldn't be in this position without his leadership." 

As a student-athlete, Little played one season at Alaska Anchorage (Division II, GNAC) before transferring to Otero Junior College, where he played for Houston Reed. In his one season with the Rattlers, Little averaged 11.6 points and 6.7 assists per game. 

Little closed his playing career at the Division I level for Abiliene Christian University (Texas), where he was the Wildcats' starter at point guard for two seasons. He finished among the top six in the NCAA Division I Southland Conference both seasons for assist-to-turnover ratio, carrying a combined 2.3 ratio through the end of his ACU career.

Immediately after his playing career, Little completed a fundraising internship with Abilene Christian athletic director Lee De Leon, who at the time was the youngest athletic director in NCAA Division I. 

A native of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Little completed his Associate of Arts in psychology from Otero Junior College in 2014 and his Bachelor of Science in communications from Abilene Christian University in 2016. 

He and his wife Shantelle have two daughters, Nevaeh and Anaiya. 

Little's official start date will be July 1. A press conference introducing Little to the community will take place later this fall, with details announced at a later date.

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information DirectorCHADRON, Neb. – Chadron State College and athletic director Mannie Reinsch have announced the hiring of Jalen Little to lead the CSC women's basketball program as head coach. Little will be the 12th head coach in program history and the sixth in the program's Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)/Division II history.Little brings nearly a decade of coaching experience within the RMAC and will be a familiar name for many CSC fans after serving as an assistant for the Chadron State men's basketball program from 2016-2020 under former Eagles coach Houston Reed. "It is an incredible honor to be named the head coach of Chadron State College women's basketball," Little said. "Thank you to Mannie Reinsch and the search committee for the opportunity to be part of a culture that values community and relationships in addition to competitive excellence. I'm looking forward to building something special with our student-athletes, both on and off the court. We will Protect the Rock!" For the past five seasons, Little has served as the lead assistant women's basketball coach at RMAC foe CSU Pueblo. During Little's time on staff, the ThunderWolves qualified for four consecutive RMAC tournaments from 2022-25, including a fifth-place finish (18-11, 13-7 RMAC) in the league standings last year. He was instrumental in recruiting Alisha Little, the two-time reigning RMAC Defensive Player of the Year who ranked second in Division II in scoring last season with 24.9 points per game. "I'd like to welcome Jalen and his family back to Chadron, Nebraska," Reinsch said. "Throughout the process, Jalen showcased his energy and passion for developing our student-athletes and building his culture the right way. After growing in his career and learning from some great leaders, I'm excited to see Jalen put his footprint on our women's basketball program."Little began his coaching career by spending four seasons as an assistant coach with the Chadron State men's basketball program under Houston Reed, who coached Little as a player. During Little's tenure, the Eagles had seven All-RMAC selections and 22 All-Academic Honor Roll selections."Houston Reed's belief in me and bringing me to Chadron laid out an unbelievable foundation for me as a coach," Little said. "He allowed me to find my coaching voice and showed me what pouring into student-athletes at an elite level looked like."At CSU Pueblo, Little and head coach Tommie Johnson orchestrated a 20-win turnaround for the ThunderWolves in 2021-22, which was tied for the best in the NCAA that year. After the ThunderWolves went 3-13 in a COVID-19 impacted 2020-21 season, CSU Pueblo rallied to a 23-9 record the next year, highlighted by a third-place RMAC regular season finish, runner-up finish in the RMAC Tournament and a berth in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. "Learning from Tommie Johnson for the past five seasons was a blessing," Little said. "He always showed what it looked like to aim high in recruiting and the value of genuine relationships. He made my transition from coaching the men's side to the women's side seamless, and I wouldn't be in this position without his leadership." As a student-athlete, Little played one season at Alaska Anchorage (Division II, GNAC) before transferring to Otero Junior College, where he played for Houston Reed. In his one season with the Rattlers, Little averaged 11.6 points and 6.7 assists per game. Little closed his playing career at the Division I level for Abiliene Christian University (Texas), where he was the Wildcats' starter at point guard for two seasons. He finished among the top six in the NCAA Division I Southland Conference both seasons for assist-to-turnover ratio, carrying a combined 2.3 ratio through the end of his ACU career.Immediately after his playing career, Little completed a fundraising internship with Abilene Christian athletic director Lee De Leon, who at the time was the youngest athletic director in NCAA Division I. A native of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Little completed his Associate of Arts in psychology from Otero Junior College in 2014 and his Bachelor of Science in communications from Abilene Christian University in 2016. He and his wife Shantelle have two daughters, Nevaeh and Anaiya. Little's official start date will be July 1. A press conference introducing Little to the community will take place later this fall, with details announced at a later date.

Chadron State hires familiar coach to take over women's basketball program

John Haimowitz Joins Evan and Bruce this week to discuss preparation in professional baseball. The North Platte 80s C talks about his notebooks and how they're vital to him when it comes to moving forward in this great sport. It's another fascinating interview with another great personality in this league. Don't miss it. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655346441244.png" alt="<a href="http://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcasts sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="http://www.npkubota.com/">Post Podcasts sponsored by North Platte Kubota</a></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Another great week in the Pecos League! This week, we visit with John Haimowitz, North Platte 80s Catcher!" 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=z9kyg-18e539a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>John Haimowitz Joins Evan and Bruce this week to discuss preparation in professional baseball. The North Platte 80s C talks about his notebooks and how they're vital to him when it comes to moving forward in this great sport. It's another fascinating interview with another great personality in this league. Don't miss it.

Another great week in the Pecos League! This week, we visit with John Haimowitz, North Platte 80s Catcher!

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — North Platte Community College continues to add to it's roster this offseason as it picks up True Freshman Guard Brady Kennison from Collin College.

Kennison averaged 10 points per game while shooting 34 percent from the three point line. Kennison also averaged 3.2 rebounds per game and 2.6 assists per game. Kennison joins an already stacked recruiting class at the guard position with incoming freshman Deandre Nichols and John Sims IV from Omaha Westview.

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — North Platte Community College continues to add to it's roster this offseason as it picks up True Freshman Guard Brady Kennison from Collin College.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750692832541.jpeg" alt="True Freshman Guard Brady Kennison from Collin College." />
 <figcaption>True Freshman Guard Brady Kennison from Collin College.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kennison averaged 10 points per game while shooting 34 percent from the three point line. Kennison also averaged 3.2 rebounds per game and 2.6 assists per game. Kennison joins an already stacked recruiting class at the guard position with incoming freshman Deandre Nichols and John Sims IV from Omaha Westview.<div><iframe width='1920' height='1080' scrolling='no' frameborder='0' style='border: none;' src='https://www.wevideo.com/embed/#3840840684' allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

North Platte Community College lands 4th commit of the offseason 

North Platte, Neb. –June 23, 2025 – It’s the last rodeo for bullfighter Zach Call.

The Seneca, Neb. native retired from professional bullfighting after the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte June 18-21.

Call, who is 32 years old, got his start in rodeo as a youngster. In college, first at Dodge City (Kan.) Community College, then at Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Okla., he rode bulls. But he didn’t find a lot of success at it.

“I knew I wasn’t ever going to be good enough at it to go real far,” he said. He caught the attention of another Nebraska legend, bullfighter Miles Hare, who grew up in Gordon. “In a round-about way, he told me I was good at it,” so Call pursued the career.

In 2014, he got his PRCA card, and began working rodeos.

Since then, he has worked rodeos across the nation, including the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte since 2017.

Call also mixed in some freestyle bullfighting: competitions between bullfighters, (with no riders riding the bulls), judged on the bullfighter’s ability to control and maneuver around the bull. In 2016, he was the runner-up at the Bullfighters Only World Finals, and the next year, he finished third at the Finals.

Of the things he’s enjoyed about his rodeo career, it’s the people who rank at the top.

“Most of my close friends are bullfighters,” he said. “They’re like family to me.” The rodeo committees are also special to him. “They treat you like family.’

He’s also loved the travel that comes with rodeo. “It’s been cool, going from state to state, seeing everything. Honestly, it’s been like a big vacation.”

Now living in Weatherford, Texas, Call has found a new passion: reined cow horses.

He was at a snaffle bit futurity when his interest was sparked. “It got my adrenaline going in my system again,” he said. “I hadn’t gotten that excited for something in quite a while. It is something that I think I can be competitive at. It’s the route I’m taking now.”

He has been training and riding performance horses for several years in Texas.

He loves the idea of competition. “I don’t know what I would do if I wasn’t competing at something.”

Call’s decision to retire did not come easily. “I am being drawn two ways: training horses and bullfighting. I’m neglecting one or the other. It’s time for me to pursue one thing.

“I can train horses a long time. Unfortunately, bullfighting is a young man’s game.”

He chose to leave the bullfighting career while he was at the top of his game.

“I didn’t want to lose my step,” he said. “I wanted to walk away on my terms, and on good terms, too.”

Being in North Platte for his final rodeo performance was fitting, he said. It’s the closest pro rodeo to his hometown, and he was “tickled” when they hired him. It was also the first pro rodeo he attended as a child.

North Platte, Neb. –June 23, 2025 – It’s the last rodeo for bullfighter Zach Call.The Seneca, Neb. native retired from professional bullfighting after the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte June 18-21.Call, who is 32 years old, got his start in rodeo as a youngster. In college, first at Dodge City (Kan.) Community College, then at Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Okla., he rode bulls. But he didn’t find a lot of success at it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750680169481.jpeg" alt="Zach Call works as a bullfighter in a sailor’s hat borrowed from one of the USS Nebraska sailors attending the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. The Seneca, Neb. native retired from rodeo this weekend. Photo by Don Christner." />
 <figcaption>Zach Call works as a bullfighter in a sailor’s hat borrowed from one of the USS Nebraska sailors attending the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. The Seneca, Neb. native retired from rodeo this weekend. Photo by Don Christner.</figcaption>
 </figure>“I knew I wasn’t ever going to be good enough at it to go real far,” he said. He caught the attention of another Nebraska legend, bullfighter Miles Hare, who grew up in Gordon. “In a round-about way, he told me I was good at it,” so Call pursued the career.In 2014, he got his PRCA card, and began working rodeos.Since then, he has worked rodeos across the nation, including the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte since 2017.Call also mixed in some freestyle bullfighting: competitions between bullfighters, (with no riders riding the bulls), judged on the bullfighter’s ability to control and maneuver around the bull. In 2016, he was the runner-up at the Bullfighters Only World Finals, and the next year, he finished third at the Finals.Of the things he’s enjoyed about his rodeo career, it’s the people who rank at the top.“Most of my close friends are bullfighters,” he said. “They’re like family to me.” The rodeo committees are also special to him. “They treat you like family.’He’s also loved the travel that comes with rodeo. “It’s been cool, going from state to state, seeing everything. Honestly, it’s been like a big vacation.”Now living in Weatherford, Texas, Call has found a new passion: reined cow horses.He was at a snaffle bit futurity when his interest was sparked. “It got my adrenaline going in my system again,” he said. “I hadn’t gotten that excited for something in quite a while. It is something that I think I can be competitive at. It’s the route I’m taking now.”He has been training and riding performance horses for several years in Texas.He loves the idea of competition. “I don’t know what I would do if I wasn’t competing at something.”Call’s decision to retire did not come easily. “I am being drawn two ways: training horses and bullfighting. I’m neglecting one or the other. It’s time for me to pursue one thing.“I can train horses a long time. Unfortunately, bullfighting is a young man’s game.”He chose to leave the bullfighting career while he was at the top of his game.“I didn’t want to lose my step,” he said. “I wanted to walk away on my terms, and on good terms, too.”Being in North Platte for his final rodeo performance was fitting, he said. It’s the closest pro rodeo to his hometown, and he was “tickled” when they hired him. It was also the first pro rodeo he attended as a child.Call is the son of Craig and Lori Call.

Last Call; Neb. bullfighter announces retirement from rodeo 

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — June 21, 2025 — While the College National Finals Rodeo wrapped up in Wyoming this weekend, two college rodeo athletes made a splash at the professional level in Nebraska, claiming victories during the final night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte on Saturday.

Montana State University student Piper Cordes earned her first professional win in barrel racing, clocking in at 17.32 seconds aboard her 10-year-old gelding, Fiesta. The victory was especially meaningful for the Bozeman, Montana, freshman after a challenging college rodeo season.

“It was surreal,” Cordes said. “I’m glad all the ups and downs happened because it brought me here.”

Fiesta, whose dam Rosa was a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier with veteran barrel racer Lisa Lockhart, thrived in the wide-open layout of North Platte’s Wild West Arena.

In the bull riding, recent Sul Ross State University graduate Gavin Mitchell of Graford, Texas, was one of just three cowboys to make a qualified ride, scoring 77.5 points on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo’s Six Shooter. Mitchell, who holds a degree in animal science, took home more than $5,500.

“My plan A is to ride bulls, and my plan B is to make plan A work,” said Mitchell, currently ranked fourth in the PRCA permit standings.

In breakaway roping, Cedar Jandreau of Kennebec, South Dakota, claimed the title with a quick 2.5-second run—just shy of the arena record. She rode a 5-year-old gelding named Dollar, owned by her father and trained by family friend Tate Cowan. The win comes after Jandreau spent last season recovering from a car accident that left her with two broken ankles.

Nebraska was well represented in steer wrestling, where Hoyt Kraeger of Weeping Water took home top honors with a combined time of 8.2 seconds on two head. Riding a horse trained by his brother Reed, who also hazed for him during the competition, Kraeger credited his win to the support of his family and team.

“It takes a lot of help,” Kraeger said. “You can’t do it yourself, especially in steer wrestling.”

Austin Hurlburt of Norfolk, Nebraska, was named the all-around champion (tie-down roping and steer wrestling).

During Saturday’s rodeo, the 2025 Trail Boss Award was presented to Deb Cox of Mullen, Nebraska. A lifelong horse trainer and barrel racer, Cox is celebrated for her six decades of involvement in the sport and her leadership in Rodeo Bible Camps.

The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is a central feature of NebraskalandDays, which continues next week with events including a prime rib feed, pickleball tournament, and concerts featuring Luke Bryan (June 27) and Bailey Zimmerman (June 28).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750599115792.jpeg" alt="The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is Piper Cordes’ first professional rodeo win. The barrel racer is from Wall, S.D. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready." />
 <figcaption>The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is Piper Cordes’ first professional rodeo win. The barrel racer is from Wall, S.D. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready.</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Ruth NicolausNORTH PLATTE, Neb. — June 21, 2025 — While the College National Finals Rodeo wrapped up in Wyoming this weekend, two college rodeo athletes made a splash at the professional level in Nebraska, claiming victories during the final night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte on Saturday.Montana State University student Piper Cordes earned her first professional win in barrel racing, clocking in at 17.32 seconds aboard her 10-year-old gelding, Fiesta. The victory was especially meaningful for the Bozeman, Montana, freshman after a challenging college rodeo season.“It was surreal,” Cordes said. “I’m glad all the ups and downs happened because it brought me here.”Fiesta, whose dam Rosa was a six-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier with veteran barrel racer Lisa Lockhart, thrived in the wide-open layout of North Platte’s Wild West Arena.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750599204187.jpeg" alt="Gavin Mitchell won the bull riding title at the 2025 Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready." />
 <figcaption>Gavin Mitchell won the bull riding title at the 2025 Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready.</figcaption>
 </figure>In the bull riding, recent Sul Ross State University graduate Gavin Mitchell of Graford, Texas, was one of just three cowboys to make a qualified ride, scoring 77.5 points on Beutler &amp; Son Rodeo’s Six Shooter. Mitchell, who holds a degree in animal science, took home more than $5,500.“My plan A is to ride bulls, and my plan B is to make plan A work,” said Mitchell, currently ranked fourth in the PRCA permit standings.In breakaway roping, Cedar Jandreau of Kennebec, South Dakota, claimed the title with a quick 2.5-second run—just shy of the arena record. She rode a 5-year-old gelding named Dollar, owned by her father and trained by family friend Tate Cowan. The win comes after Jandreau spent last season recovering from a car accident that left her with two broken ankles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750599032772.jpeg" alt="Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. is the 2025 Buffalo Bill Rodeo steer wrestling champion. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready." />
 <figcaption>Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. is the 2025 Buffalo Bill Rodeo steer wrestling champion. Photo by Clay Guardipee, Rodeo Ready.</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska was well represented in steer wrestling, where Hoyt Kraeger of Weeping Water took home top honors with a combined time of 8.2 seconds on two head. Riding a horse trained by his brother Reed, who also hazed for him during the competition, Kraeger credited his win to the support of his family and team.“It takes a lot of help,” Kraeger said. “You can’t do it yourself, especially in steer wrestling.”Overall event champions were:<ul>
 <li>Bareback Riding: Rocker Steiner, Weatherford, Texas (86 points)
</li><li>Saddle Bronc Riding: Wyatt Casper, Miami, Texas (84 points)
</li><li>Tie-Down Roping: Jacob Haren, Callaway, Neb. (19.5 seconds on two head)
</li><li>Team Roping: Co-champions Garrett Tonozzi, Lampasas, Texas/Conner Herren, Crooks, S.D., and Eric Martin, Aurora, Colo./Ryon Tittel, Pueblo, Colo. (6.1 seconds)
</li><li>Bull Riding: Gavin Mitchell, Graford, Texas (77.5 points)
</li>
 </ul>Austin Hurlburt of Norfolk, Nebraska, was named the all-around champion (tie-down roping and steer wrestling).During Saturday’s rodeo, the 2025 Trail Boss Award was presented to Deb Cox of Mullen, Nebraska. A lifelong horse trainer and barrel racer, Cox is celebrated for her six decades of involvement in the sport and her leadership in Rodeo Bible Camps.The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is a central feature of NebraskalandDays, which continues next week with events including a prime rib feed, pickleball tournament, and concerts featuring Luke Bryan (June 27) and Bailey Zimmerman (June 28).

College athletes among winners at Buffalo Bill Rodeo Saturday night (Overall Winners)

North Platte, Neb. (June 19, 2025) – Rocker Steiner is looking to earn himself a second Buffalo Bill Rodeo buckle.

The Weatherford, Texas bareback rider, the 2024 Buffalo Bill Rodeo bareback riding champ, took the lead in his event during the second night of the rodeo on June 19.

On his way to North Platte, however, he questioned his decision to compete in North Platte on the Beutler and Son Rodeo horse named Dodge Avenger.

When he vetted the horse, what he heard wasn’t what he wanted to hear.

“What I heard from my bronc riding buddies is the horse is real treacherous, out of line, and hard to ride, and I didn’t know that until I was about three hours into my drive today. I was expecting the worst.”

The horse’s first jump was “super hard,” Steiner said, “and jerked my riggin away from me. Somehow I picked it back up and I finished it off and I’m leading it now.

Steiner is currently ranked second in the PRCA world standings, and is on a roll, after battling through wear and tear and concussions suffered at last year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

“I get real hot in the summer,” he said. “June, July and August are my best months, which is perfect. Last year, I think I won $40,000 in June alone. These first rodeos for the summer run, Woodward (Okla.), North Platte, and Pleasant Grove (Utah), I have a history of winning them.”

Steiner won the Woodward rodeo this year and last year; he is the 2024 Pleasant Grove champion.

He’ll hit the trail hard over the next few months, as the rodeo season heats up and there’s plenty of money to be made. His rodeo schedule includes Pleasant Grove; Nampa, Idaho; Santa Ynez, Calif.; Springdale, Ark.; Pecos, Texas; Greeley, Colo.; and Ponoka, Alberta, all by July 4.

“It’s a real cool little rodeo. It’s very country, my kind of people. Any rodeo Bennie Beutler has, I’m going. They’re great friends of ours. I love this rodeo.”

Other high scores and fast times from the morning slack and the evening competition include steer wrestler Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. (3.8 seconds); tie-down roper Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas (8.6 seconds); saddle bronc rider John Thelen, Pierre, S.D. (81.5 points) breakaway roper Jessica McMaster, Madison, Kan. (3.3 seconds); team ropers Jay Tittel, Pueblo, Colo. and Cullen Teller, Ault, Colo. (6.5 seconds); and barrel racer Alyssa Allen, Oelrichs, S.D. (17.79 seconds.) No bull rider made a qualified ride.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The third night of action at the Buffalo Bill rodeo takes place Friday, June 20 starting at 7:30 pm. The rodeo is broadcast on the Cowboy Channel app and on local radio station KODY 1240 AM.

Results, 2nd Performance and slack, June 19, 2025

North Platte, Nebraska – Buffalo Bill Rodeo

1. Rocker Steiner, Weatherford, Texas 86 points on Dodge Avenger; 2. Waylon Bourgeois, Church Point, La. 84; 3. Cole Franks, Clarendon, Texas 83.5; 4. Owen Brouillette, St. Francisville, La. 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;

1. Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. 3.8 seconds; 2. Trisyn Kalawaia, Alva, Okla. 4.1;

3. (tie) Riley Westhaver, High River, Alb., Austin Eller, Glendo, Wyo. and Marc Joiner, Wayne, Okla. 4.6 each.

1. Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas 8.6 seconds; 2. Zane Rampey, Pryor, Okla. 9.2; 3. Hunter Herrin, Elgin, Okla. 9.6; 4. New Bruley, Willow Lake, S.D. 10.6.

1. John Thelen, Pierre, S.D. 81.5 points on Revenge; 2. Kyle Wanchuk, Sherwood Park, Alb. 81; 3. (tie) Tyrel Roberts, Charlie Lake, B.C. and Mitchell Story, Bayfield, Colo. 79 each.

1. Jessica McMaster, Madison, Kan. 3.3 seconds; 2. Taylor Raupe, Douglas, Kan. 3.6; no other qualified runs.

1. Jay Tittel, Pueblo, Colo./Cullen Teller, Ault, Colo. 6.5 seconds; 2. Cooper Brott, Gothenburg, Neb./Dustin Harris, O’Neill, Neb. 10.2; 3. Brayden Fillmore, Pueblo, Colo./Cody Lansing, Cortez, Colo. 16.2; 4. Gary Haynes, Orchard, Colo./Bryton Scheller, Ault, Colo. 19.7.

1. Alyssa Allen, Oelrichs, S.D. 17.79 seconds; 2. Jodi Nelson, Hartford, S.D. 17.80; 3. Emily Beisel, Weatherford, Okla. 17.81; 4. Karson Bradley Berger, Saratoga, Wyo. 17.88.

North Platte, Neb. (June 19, 2025) – Rocker Steiner is looking to earn himself a second Buffalo Bill Rodeo buckle.The Weatherford, Texas bareback rider, the 2024 Buffalo Bill Rodeo bareback riding champ, took the lead in his event during the second night of the rodeo on June 19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750428996299.jpeg" alt="Rocker Steiner leads the bareback riding after the second night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo courtesy Clay Guardipee." />
 <figcaption>Rocker Steiner leads the bareback riding after the second night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo courtesy Clay Guardipee.</figcaption>
 </figure>On his way to North Platte, however, he questioned his decision to compete in North Platte on the Beutler and Son Rodeo horse named Dodge Avenger.When he vetted the horse, what he heard wasn’t what he wanted to hear.“What I heard from my bronc riding buddies is the horse is real treacherous, out of line, and hard to ride, and I didn’t know that until I was about three hours into my drive today. I was expecting the worst.”But things worked out.The horse’s first jump was “super hard,” Steiner said, “and jerked my riggin away from me. Somehow I picked it back up and I finished it off and I’m leading it now.“So not a bad day.”Steiner is currently ranked second in the PRCA world standings, and is on a roll, after battling through wear and tear and concussions suffered at last year’s Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.“I get real hot in the summer,” he said. “June, July and August are my best months, which is perfect. Last year, I think I won $40,000 in June alone. These first rodeos for the summer run, Woodward (Okla.), North Platte, and Pleasant Grove (Utah), I have a history of winning them.”Steiner won the Woodward rodeo this year and last year; he is the 2024 Pleasant Grove champion.He’ll hit the trail hard over the next few months, as the rodeo season heats up and there’s plenty of money to be made. His rodeo schedule includes Pleasant Grove; Nampa, Idaho; Santa Ynez, Calif.; Springdale, Ark.; Pecos, Texas; Greeley, Colo.; and Ponoka, Alberta, all by July 4.He likes coming to North Platte.“It’s a real cool little rodeo. It’s very country, my kind of people. Any rodeo Bennie Beutler has, I’m going. They’re great friends of ours. I love this rodeo.”Other high scores and fast times from the morning slack and the evening competition include steer wrestler Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. (3.8 seconds); tie-down roper Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas (8.6 seconds); saddle bronc rider John Thelen, Pierre, S.D. (81.5 points) breakaway roper Jessica McMaster, Madison, Kan. (3.3 seconds); team ropers Jay Tittel, Pueblo, Colo. and Cullen Teller, Ault, Colo. (6.5 seconds); and barrel racer Alyssa Allen, Oelrichs, S.D. (17.79 seconds.) No bull rider made a qualified ride.&nbsp;&nbsp;The third night of action at the Buffalo Bill rodeo takes place Friday, June 20 starting at 7:30 pm. The rodeo is broadcast on the Cowboy Channel app and on local radio station KODY 1240 AM.- ### -Results, 2nd Performance and slack, June 19, 2025North Platte, Nebraska – Buffalo Bill RodeoBareback riding1. Rocker Steiner, Weatherford, Texas 86 points on Dodge Avenger; 2. Waylon Bourgeois, Church Point, La. 84; 3. Cole Franks, Clarendon, Texas 83.5; 4. Owen Brouillette, St. Francisville, La. 80.&nbsp;&nbsp;Steer wrestlingStart of the 2nd round1. Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. 3.8 seconds; 2. Trisyn Kalawaia, Alva, Okla. 4.1;3. (tie) Riley Westhaver, High River, Alb., Austin Eller, Glendo, Wyo. and Marc Joiner, Wayne, Okla. 4.6 each.Tie-down ropingStart of the 2nd round1. Monty Lewis, Hereford, Texas 8.6 seconds; 2. Zane Rampey, Pryor, Okla. 9.2; 3. Hunter Herrin, Elgin, Okla. 9.6; 4. New Bruley, Willow Lake, S.D. 10.6.Saddle bronc riding1. John Thelen, Pierre, S.D. 81.5 points on Revenge; 2. Kyle Wanchuk, Sherwood Park, Alb. 81; 3. (tie) Tyrel Roberts, Charlie Lake, B.C. and Mitchell Story, Bayfield, Colo. 79 each.Breakaway roping1. Jessica McMaster, Madison, Kan. 3.3 seconds; 2. Taylor Raupe, Douglas, Kan. 3.6; no other qualified runs.Team roping1. Jay Tittel, Pueblo, Colo./Cullen Teller, Ault, Colo. 6.5 seconds; 2. Cooper Brott, Gothenburg, Neb./Dustin Harris, O’Neill, Neb. 10.2; 3. Brayden Fillmore, Pueblo, Colo./Cody Lansing, Cortez, Colo. 16.2; 4. Gary Haynes, Orchard, Colo./Bryton Scheller, Ault, Colo. 19.7.Barrel racing1. Alyssa Allen, Oelrichs, S.D. 17.79 seconds; 2. Jodi Nelson, Hartford, S.D. 17.80; 3. Emily Beisel, Weatherford, Okla. 17.81; 4. Karson Bradley Berger, Saratoga, Wyo. 17.88.Bull ridingNo qualified rides.** All results are unofficial.&nbsp;

Repeat performance; second night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo 

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo Communication

North Platte, Neb. (June 18, 2025) – A Colorado cowboy is in the steer wrestling lead after the first night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte.

Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo., had a time of 4.2 seconds during slack on June 18 to win the first round.

The 42-year-old cowboy had done his homework on the steer, asking other steer wrestlers how the animal would run.

Tagged #110, Kvistad knew the steer might “slip a horn,” when the steer’s left horn slips across the steer wrestler’s belt line and the steer gets away.

“I was just trying to stay on my feet,” Kvistad said, “get in there to the nose early, and hope for the best.”

And the best is what happened: he won the round and a check for $1653.

Kvistad isn’t too old to steer wrestle, but he’s among the upper percentile in his age bracket among wrestlers.

It’s the horses that keep him in the game.

In North Platte, he rode a seven-year-old gelding named Cactus who is “still a little green.” Kvistad started him last summer, roping on him “a bunch.”

“He’s just a good horse,” he said. “My son (Trigg, age 14), was just riding him back to the trailer. If you’re around him, you wouldn’t even know he was a bulldogging horse. He’s really broke and just an easy horse to get along with. Between me and my fiancée (Selina Wiseman), he’s one of our favorite horses.”

He trains most of the horses he rides and takes great enjoyment in that process. “That’s what keeps me going, is the training part of it,” he said, “being able to train my own and haul them, and when you get those wins on them.”&nbsp; It’s part financial, that he’s able to win money on his home-trained horses, but it’s also incentive, “motivation to get out there, keep practicing, and stay hooked even though I’m 42 years old.”

In the saddle bronc riding, the number twelve man in the PRCA world standings is leading after the first night of the rodeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Miami, Texas cowboy was aboard a Beutler and Son horse named Ridge Walker. “That horse, he got me worked up in the chute,” Casper said. “He’s a bugger to saddle and get my halter on.” But the ride went well, to the tune of 84 points. “He came out there to the right, was pretty danged good, so I just stayed ahead of him and did what I could.”

The busiest part of the rodeo season is about to heat up, and Casper’s schedule is evidence.

He has off tomorrow, June 19, then competes in Pleasant Grove, Utah; and Elko and Reno, Nevada before coming home to Texas for a few days. Then he’s off to Springdale, Ark., Greeley, Colo., and Pecos, Texas, all before July 1.

He’s competed at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo a few times.

“It’s been a few years since I could fit this one into my schedule,” Casper said.

“It’s nice to be back here in North Platte. I’ve got friends all around here that cowboy and raise cattle, so it’s fun to see them and hang out.”

Other leaders after the day’s slack and the evening’s competition include bareback rider Quintonn Lunsford, McCune, Kan. (77); tie-down roper JD McCuistion, Estes Park, Colo. (8.9 seconds); breakaway roper Cedar Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. (2.5 seconds); team ropers Marty McPherson, Piedmont, S.D. and Wroper Kosel, Mobridge, S.D. (6.2 seconds); barrel racer Amy Jo Reisdorfer, Cheyenne, Wyo. (17.61 seconds) and bull rider Jad Fogelsonger, Jefferson, Colo. (76 points).

The 2026 Miss Rodeo Nebraska was crowned during tonight’s rodeo.

Brylee Thompson, Hershey, won the crown. A graduate of Mid-Plains Community College in North Platte, she will serve as ambassador and representative of pro rodeo in the Cornhusker State in 2026 and will compete in the Miss Rodeo America pageant in December 2026.

The 2025 Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska was crowned on June 17. Dakota Glasshoff, Murdock, Neb., won the title. This fall, she will be a senior at Elmwood-Murdock Public Schools.

The Buffalo Bill Rodeo continues with its second of four shows on Thursday, June 19 at 8 pm. Tickets range in price from $11 to $24 and are available online at www.NebraskalandDays.com and at the gate.

Results, 1st Performance and slack, June 18, 2025

1. Quintonn Lunsford, McCune, Kan. 77 points on Hot Rod; 2. Gauge McBride, Kearney, Neb. 76; 3. Darren Doporto, Milan, Mo. 59; 4. Stetson Bierman, Hidalgo, Ill. 57.

1. Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo. 4.2 seconds; 2. Aaron Vosler, Laramie, Wyo. 4.3; 3. (tie) Charlie Smith, Killdeer, N.D. and Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. 4.4 each.

1. JD McCuistion, Estes Park, Colo. 8.9 seconds; 2. (tie) Macon Murphy, Keatchie, La. and Zane Kilgus, 9.1 each; 4. Austin Lawrence, Sperry, Okla. 9.4.

1. Wyatt Casper, Miami, Texas 84 points on Ridge Walker; 2. Jake Clark, Crane, Ore. 80.5; 3. (tie) Jake Schlattmann, Greybull,Wyo. and Kade Bruno, Challis, Idaho 80 each.&nbsp;&nbsp;

1. Cedar Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. 2.5 seconds; 2. Samantha Fulton, Miller, S.D. 3.4; 3. Ally Brennaman, Deerfield, Kan. 3.5; 4. (tie) Kayla Olson, Chadron, Neb. and Misti Brown, Valentine, Neb. 3.6 each.

1. Marty McPherson, Piedmont, S.D./Wroper Kosel, Mobridge, S.D. 6.2 seconds; 2. JB Lord, Menoken, N.D./Ed Shearer, Parshall, N.D. 11.0; 3. Corben Culley, Lawton, Iowa/Trent Vaught, Mena, Ark. 11.4; 4. Guy Howell, Belle Fourche, S.D./Logan Schliinz, Whitewood, S.D. 11.6.

1. Amy Jo Reisdorfer, Cheyenne, Wyo. 17.61; 2. Jamie Olsen, Brock, Texas 17.88; 3. Prairie Rose Robbins, Brooksville, Kan. 17.93; 4. Hadley Tate, Apache, Okla. 17.96.

1. Jad Fogelsonger, Jefferson, Colo. 76 points on No. Y72; no other qualified rides.

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo CommunicationNorth Platte, Neb. (June 18, 2025) – A Colorado cowboy is in the steer wrestling lead after the first night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte.Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo., had a time of 4.2 seconds during slack on June 18 to win the first round.The 42-year-old cowboy had done his homework on the steer, asking other steer wrestlers how the animal would run.Tagged #110, Kvistad knew the steer might “slip a horn,” when the steer’s left horn slips across the steer wrestler’s belt line and the steer gets away.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750333722291.jpeg" alt="Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo., won the first round of the steer wrestling at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo courtesy Clay Guardipee/Rodeo Ready Photography" />
 <figcaption>Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo., won the first round of the steer wrestling at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Photo courtesy Clay Guardipee/Rodeo Ready Photography</figcaption>
 </figure>“I was just trying to stay on my feet,” Kvistad said, “get in there to the nose early, and hope for the best.”And the best is what happened: he won the round and a check for $1653.Kvistad isn’t too old to steer wrestle, but he’s among the upper percentile in his age bracket among wrestlers.It’s the horses that keep him in the game.In North Platte, he rode a seven-year-old gelding named Cactus who is “still a little green.” Kvistad started him last summer, roping on him “a bunch.”“He’s just a good horse,” he said. “My son (Trigg, age 14), was just riding him back to the trailer. If you’re around him, you wouldn’t even know he was a bulldogging horse. He’s really broke and just an easy horse to get along with. Between me and my fiancée (Selina Wiseman), he’s one of our favorite horses.”He trains most of the horses he rides and takes great enjoyment in that process. “That’s what keeps me going, is the training part of it,” he said, “being able to train my own and haul them, and when you get those wins on them.”&nbsp; It’s part financial, that he’s able to win money on his home-trained horses, but it’s also incentive, “motivation to get out there, keep practicing, and stay hooked even though I’m 42 years old.”In the saddle bronc riding, the number twelve man in the PRCA world standings is leading after the first night of the rodeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Miami, Texas cowboy was aboard a Beutler and Son horse named Ridge Walker. “That horse, he got me worked up in the chute,” Casper said. “He’s a bugger to saddle and get my halter on.” But the ride went well, to the tune of 84 points. “He came out there to the right, was pretty danged good, so I just stayed ahead of him and did what I could.”The busiest part of the rodeo season is about to heat up, and Casper’s schedule is evidence.He has off tomorrow, June 19, then competes in Pleasant Grove, Utah; and Elko and Reno, Nevada before coming home to Texas for a few days. Then he’s off to Springdale, Ark., Greeley, Colo., and Pecos, Texas, all before July 1.He’s competed at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo a few times.“It’s been a few years since I could fit this one into my schedule,” Casper said.“It’s nice to be back here in North Platte. I’ve got friends all around here that cowboy and raise cattle, so it’s fun to see them and hang out.”Other leaders after the day’s slack and the evening’s competition include bareback rider Quintonn Lunsford, McCune, Kan. (77); tie-down roper JD McCuistion, Estes Park, Colo. (8.9 seconds); breakaway roper Cedar Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. (2.5 seconds); team ropers Marty McPherson, Piedmont, S.D. and Wroper Kosel, Mobridge, S.D. (6.2 seconds); barrel racer Amy Jo Reisdorfer, Cheyenne, Wyo. (17.61 seconds) and bull rider Jad Fogelsonger, Jefferson, Colo. (76 points).The 2026 Miss Rodeo Nebraska was crowned during tonight’s rodeo.Brylee Thompson, Hershey, won the crown. A graduate of Mid-Plains Community College in North Platte, she will serve as ambassador and representative of pro rodeo in the Cornhusker State in 2026 and will compete in the Miss Rodeo America pageant in December 2026.The 2025 Miss Teen Rodeo Nebraska was crowned on June 17. Dakota Glasshoff, Murdock, Neb., won the title. This fall, she will be a senior at Elmwood-Murdock Public Schools.The Buffalo Bill Rodeo continues with its second of four shows on Thursday, June 19 at 8 pm. Tickets range in price from $11 to $24 and are available online at www.NebraskalandDays.com and at the gate.- ### -Results, 1st Performance and slack, June 18, 2025North Platte, Nebraska – Buffalo Bill RodeoBareback riding1. Quintonn Lunsford, McCune, Kan. 77 points on Hot Rod; 2. Gauge McBride, Kearney, Neb. 76; 3. Darren Doporto, Milan, Mo. 59; 4. Stetson Bierman, Hidalgo, Ill. 57.Steer wrestling1st round1. Tait Kvistad, Hudson, Colo. 4.2 seconds; 2. Aaron Vosler, Laramie, Wyo. 4.3; 3. (tie) Charlie Smith, Killdeer, N.D. and Hoyt Kraeger, Weeping Water, Neb. 4.4 each.Tie-down roping1st round1. JD McCuistion, Estes Park, Colo. 8.9 seconds; 2. (tie) Macon Murphy, Keatchie, La. and Zane Kilgus, 9.1 each; 4. Austin Lawrence, Sperry, Okla. 9.4.Saddle bronc riding1. Wyatt Casper, Miami, Texas 84 points on Ridge Walker; 2. Jake Clark, Crane, Ore. 80.5; 3. (tie) Jake Schlattmann, Greybull,Wyo. and Kade Bruno, Challis, Idaho 80 each.&nbsp;&nbsp;Breakaway roping1. Cedar Jandreau, Kennebec, S.D. 2.5 seconds; 2. Samantha Fulton, Miller, S.D. 3.4; 3. Ally Brennaman, Deerfield, Kan. 3.5; 4. (tie) Kayla Olson, Chadron, Neb. and Misti Brown, Valentine, Neb. 3.6 each.Team roping1. Marty McPherson, Piedmont, S.D./Wroper Kosel, Mobridge, S.D. 6.2 seconds; 2. JB Lord, Menoken, N.D./Ed Shearer, Parshall, N.D. 11.0; 3. Corben Culley, Lawton, Iowa/Trent Vaught, Mena, Ark. 11.4; 4. Guy Howell, Belle Fourche, S.D./Logan Schliinz, Whitewood, S.D. 11.6.Barrel racing1. Amy Jo Reisdorfer, Cheyenne, Wyo. 17.61; 2. Jamie Olsen, Brock, Texas 17.88; 3. Prairie Rose Robbins, Brooksville, Kan. 17.93; 4. Hadley Tate, Apache, Okla. 17.96.Bull riding1. Jad Fogelsonger, Jefferson, Colo. 76 points on No. Y72; no other qualified rides.** All results are unofficial.&nbsp;

First night of action at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo 

Nebraska softball pitcher and utility player Jordyn Bahl was named a CSC first-team Academic All-American, the organization announced on Tuesday. The honor marks Bahl’s second Academic All-America award, as she grabbed second-team recognition at Oklahoma in 2023.

Bahl is the 24th Husker to earn Academic All-America honors and the fifth Husker to be named an NFCA All-American and a CSC Academic All-American in the same season. She is only the third NU softball player and first since 1986 (Lori Richins) to earn first-team honors both athletically and academically in the same year.

Bahl brought the Big Red’s Academic All-America award total to 32, which ranks first in the Big Ten and third nationally.

The Academic All-America first-team recognition adds to a long list of accolades for Bahl’s junior season. She was named the NFCA National Player of the Year, along with the Big Ten Player of the Year and Big Ten Pitcher of the year. The Papillion, Neb., native was a first-team NFCA All-American, a first-team All-Big Ten team member and an NFCA All-Mountain Region first-team honoree. She was one of three finalists for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award and the Honda Award for Softball.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska softball pitcher and utility player Jordyn Bahl was named a CSC first-team Academic All-American, the organization announced on Tuesday. The honor marks Bahl’s second Academic All-America award, as she grabbed second-team recognition at Oklahoma in 2023.Bahl is the 24th Husker to earn Academic All-America honors and the fifth Husker to be named an NFCA All-American and a CSC Academic All-American in the same season. She is only the third NU softball player and first since 1986 (Lori Richins) to earn first-team honors both athletically and academically in the same year.Bahl brought the Big Red’s Academic All-America award total to 32, which ranks first in the Big Ten and third nationally.The Academic All-America first-team recognition adds to a long list of accolades for Bahl’s junior season. She was named the NFCA National Player of the Year, along with the Big Ten Player of the Year and Big Ten Pitcher of the year. The Papillion, Neb., native was a first-team NFCA All-American, a first-team All-Big Ten team member and an NFCA All-Mountain Region first-team honoree. She was one of three finalists for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year award and the Honda Award for Softball.In the classroom, Bahl has maintained a 3.64 cumulative grade-point average while studying human development and family sciences. She was an Academic All-Big Ten team member and has been on the Nebraska Scholar-Athlete honor roll every semester she has been at NU. In the circle, Bahl amassed a record of 26-8 with a 1.56 ERA. She allowed only 46 earned runs and 114 hits across 206.1 innings, while striking out 286 batters. Bahl started 34 games and grabbed eight shutouts and two saves. Her opponents averaged .156 at the plate. At the plate, Bahl posted a program-record .462 batting average and logged 72 runs, 78 hits and 66 RBIs. She added 23 home runs, the most in Nebraska history, along with 16 doubles and two triples to total a school-record .988 slugging percentage. She drew 27 walks and 11 hit-by-pitches and struck out only 17 times for a .555 on-base percentage.