McCook Community College Athletics

McCook Community College sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://mccindians.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/caskey_gabby_q2uh">Gabby Caskey</a>&nbsp;has signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.

The Marauders compete at the NCAA D2 level in the Northern Sun Conference.

"I am happy Gabby has found her next volleyball home, as I know she is going to do great things there," said MCC Coach Hayley Kobza.

Caskey, a middle blocker from Ogallala, said University of Mary gives her the best opportunity to pursue both her academics and athletics.

"The coach there is similar to Kobza in the way that she is keen on recruiting players that will come in and make a big impact on her team," said Caskey. "And the way that she believed that I would be able to do that really got to me."

After her visit, she also felt a connection with the girls on the team.

"They all made very personal efforts to make me feel welcomed and generally at home," said Caskey. "The school is also very pretty, and their biology department professors have high accolades that make it a very respectable program."

She plans to continue her pursuit of a bachelor's degree in biology with the goal of getting into medical school in the field of family medicine or orthopedics.

This season Caskey played in 35 matches and averaged 1.81 kills and 1.24 blocks per set. She had 219 kills, 75 digs, 24 service aces, 10 solo blocks and 140 block assists. That block total was fourth best among players from 88 Division 1 NJCAA schools and her 140 block assists led the nation.

She recorded a season-best 15 kills in the Aug. 25 match against Cloud County. That was one of four double-digit kill games. Her best blocking match came Sept. 23 against Northeast Community College when she recorded 10 assist blocks to go along with 12 kills.

"Gabby was a solid player for us these last two seasons. She always came in and just got to work," said Kobza. "Not only was she a valuable player for us, but she also was a great academic student as well."

In her two years at MCC, Caskey recorded 411 kills, 225 total blocks, 292 digs and 76 service aces. Academically she was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association all-academic first team for student athletes maintaining a 4.0 grade point average. She was named to the President's List in both of her freshman semesters.Caskey said beating Western Nebraska on their court in Scottsbluff on Oct. 14 was a highlight of her career. It was only the second time in the last 29 years, MCC was able to pick up a win over the Cougars, who had won seven straight matches between the two schools and 64 of the past 66 meetings dating back to 1994.

"Coming back to the locker room after that game was so exciting and us girls were beyond excited," Caskey said.

She said her favorite of her time at MCC includes attending baseball games with teammates and "being chatty" towards the opposing team during their times at bat.

Her new team in Bismarck is graduating seven players and Caskey said her role will be to come in and make a big change to the intensity of the program

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704302618046.jpeg" alt="Gabby Caskey/MCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Gabby Caskey/MCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>McCook Community College AthleticsMcCook Community College sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://mccindians.com/sports/wvball/2023-24/bios/caskey_gabby_q2uh">Gabby Caskey</a>&nbsp;has signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.The Marauders compete at the NCAA D2 level in the Northern Sun Conference."I am happy Gabby has found her next volleyball home, as I know she is going to do great things there," said MCC Coach Hayley Kobza.Caskey, a middle blocker from Ogallala, said University of Mary gives her the best opportunity to pursue both her academics and athletics."The coach there is similar to Kobza in the way that she is keen on recruiting players that will come in and make a big impact on her team," said Caskey. "And the way that she believed that I would be able to do that really got to me."After her visit, she also felt a connection with the girls on the team."They all made very personal efforts to make me feel welcomed and generally at home," said Caskey. "The school is also very pretty, and their biology department professors have high accolades that make it a very respectable program."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704302654609.jpeg" alt="Gabby Caskey/MCC Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Gabby Caskey/MCC Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>She plans to continue her pursuit of a bachelor's degree in biology with the goal of getting into medical school in the field of family medicine or orthopedics.This season Caskey played in 35 matches and averaged 1.81 kills and 1.24 blocks per set. She had 219 kills, 75 digs, 24 service aces, 10 solo blocks and 140 block assists. That block total was fourth best among players from 88 Division 1 NJCAA schools and her 140 block assists led the nation.She recorded a season-best 15 kills in the Aug. 25 match against Cloud County. That was one of four double-digit kill games. Her best blocking match came Sept. 23 against Northeast Community College when she recorded 10 assist blocks to go along with 12 kills."Gabby was a solid player for us these last two seasons. She always came in and just got to work," said Kobza. "Not only was she a valuable player for us, but she also was a great academic student as well."In her two years at MCC, Caskey recorded 411 kills, 225 total blocks, 292 digs and 76 service aces. Academically she was named to the National Junior College Athletic Association all-academic first team for student athletes maintaining a 4.0 grade point average. She was named to the President's List in both of her freshman semesters.Caskey said beating Western Nebraska on their court in Scottsbluff on Oct. 14 was a highlight of her career. It was only the second time in the last 29 years, MCC was able to pick up a win over the Cougars, who had won seven straight matches between the two schools and 64 of the past 66 meetings dating back to 1994."Coming back to the locker room after that game was so exciting and us girls were beyond excited," Caskey said.She said her favorite of her time at MCC includes attending baseball games with teammates and "being chatty" towards the opposing team during their times at bat.Her new team in Bismarck is graduating seven players and Caskey said her role will be to come in and make a big change to the intensity of the program

Ogallala native Gabby Caskey commits to University of Mary for volleyball

Chase County 35, Dundy County Stratton 26

Hershey 43, South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 29

Dundy County Stratton 51, Chase County 35

South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 62, Hershey 42

<h2>Girls Basketball</h2>Bridgeport 63, Ogallala 60Broken Bow 64, McCook 23Chase County 35, Dundy County Stratton 26Hershey 43, South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 29Kearney 56, North Platte 44Maxwell 33, Arapahoe 30Maywood-Hayes Center 61, Hi-Line 10Ord 56, Cozad 52Southwest 43, Hitchcock County 35<h2>Boys Basketball</h2>Cozad 50, Ord 49Arapahoe 62, Maxwell 46Dundy County Stratton 51, Chase County 35Hitchcock County 65, Southwest 60Kearney 91, North Platte 53Maywood-Hayes Center 53, Hi-Line 44Ogallala 82, Bridgeport 56South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 62, Hershey 42&nbsp;McCook 54, Broken Bow 30

Area Sports scores from January 2nd

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communication

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiQGBJd9lJxwnlDCgzYk6YfDiQ2jprW8fftiT2c9SJGOA39rHsOaKD8nJHHSCTphRVkkXzfXSu4E0pX5BbNLhMLw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Omaha Supernovas,</a>&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team in the newly-established&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiCarDNE6LKTVvjsP0GiLta8oUuJWdm2Tyf9hTGLIFFbLF0ayNFzzBk4eaeg9iTUuit4RV4XlAtWiH32OI1NDfeA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Professional Volleyball Federation</a>, are excited to announce the official roster for Omaha’s first-ever Training Camp from January 3 through January 22.&nbsp;

Training Camp will help determine the Supernovas’ 14-person roster for the first season of the Pro Volleyball Federation which starts on January 24 with Omaha hosting the Atlanta Vibe at 7 p.m. at the CHI Health Center. Both single match and season tickets are now available on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Ti5lqRy2RK4VtUf-thDlc7_Jp9obUdwAbFnBdEfK_zIrve7WhawljpdZONGoewgbob-4e6TzXjPSpLr9_e968wIQ==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Supernovas.com</a>. &nbsp;

The Supernovas will invite 22 dynamic players from around the country to compete for one of 14 active roster spots for the inaugural season of the Pro Volleyball Federation. There will also be two more additional roster spots for college draftees to become practice players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Omaha’s roster features talent from around the globe with multiple All-Americans, NCAA National Champions and Olympians. The roster invites include Bethania De La Cruz, Tori Dixon, Danielle Hart, Sydney Hilley, Gina Mancuso-Prososki, Allison Mayfield, Brooke Nuneviller, Yossiana Pressley, Nia Reed, Jess Schaben-Lansman, Jazz Schmidt, Natalia Valentin-Anderson, Lindsey Vander Weide and Kendall White.&nbsp;

Due to overseas obligations, Hristina Vuchkova will join the team in February. &nbsp;

The Supernovas have also signed its first group of college draftees including Western Kentucky outside hitter Paige Briggs, Arkansas opposite Maggie Cartwright, James Madison middle blocker Sophie Davis and Nebraska native and Auburn middle Kyla Swanson.&nbsp;

"It’s an exciting time for our Supernovas franchise, staff and all of our players,”&nbsp;Head Coach Shelton Collier&nbsp;said. “We open training camp with a mix of experienced veterans and talented young players. We are really looking forward to having a high-level training camp. Our support staff and admin team have been tremendous which has allowed us as coaches to really zone in on what we need to do in the gym. Our players are fired up and ready, which is exciting for all of us."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amber Igiede, who was selected No. 7 overall, will be playing overseas. &nbsp;

Omaha has also invited former Western Michigan outside hitter Maggie King to Training Camp. The Cincinnati, Ohio native left the Broncos as one of the most prolific players in program history. King was a four-time All-MAC selection across her five seasons.&nbsp;

King finished her career with 1,849 kills, 913 digs, 143 blocks and 120 aces in 146 matches. Her kill total stands at No. 2 overall in the career record book for the Broncos with her 3.50 kills per set career average sixth. She’s also the program’s all-time leader in career attempts (5,223) and second in career points (2,052).&nbsp;

Emma Willis rounds out the Supernovas roster as another invitee. The former Denver University middle blocker spent all four seasons with the Pioneers. Willis was a premier blocker during her college career that spanned from 2015-2018 as she recorded 381 total blocks. Following her career at Denver, Willis spent a pair of seasons playing for the Zesar VFM Franches-Montagnes professional team in Switzerland.&nbsp;

Supernovas Training Camp will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Lied Fitness Center at the College of Saint Mary.&nbsp;

REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;competition will officially begin in the United States with the Omaha Supernovas hosting the Atlanta Vibe in the first match in league history at the CHI Health Center in downtown Omaha on January 24, at 7:00 p.m. CT. Nebraska supports volleyball better than anyone, as evidenced by the more than 92,000 fans that turned out this season for a collegiate match at the Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium in August, setting a new world record for the highest attended women’s sporting event.&nbsp;

The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tik2QI3OfoE95WAVtUrodOiSKfUPdc5kQeSusx6n4nhPh13pUl-6s0yaWS-dVbNZFWLb6ePwU9hsRzhRnuIxltAhrkp4G6GnA2t0WxG7tZQ0kr6zDek1yTpajbgnB7cetA&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiqEtcfXfd8UqP5-w7Wj5RYSaJE5lc5vyMlq_vHU_sOeHrBnbB0mKCyimGAzjgE5QbV-BbNqfYuBXaRDSvJ6BBDg==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiTPAC9ZxeqM3QIeoz5R6HfLMuBTfXBddv-TKyRJJecL18fakTDJWLplAn7EthcDL5tV0Hz3EjGZj3GQoAhVcTXw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tit6HtIWxwFOsHpQnDjgxc-FyaaxY6mTKiy0W9RgmMeuyiJo2BSSsvoL90-y5Py4wr3Ip92N90o3zvM3Knc8AYMA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiD7OonXGfPJfhBho5UTLRePJCr2Otq-ira1lZOo0RiRpzl8w86LTLpDFclPK002CedQU760wnbIbRtcdviTcX7Q==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TihAJwi-sklt5IcytXH3WsA0GLByqYBELfyNYT7FyK6O6aXQqdaUgSWYvAQo2svtuav0-uPOBjlF7hhAAR_9UEBw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tipww-JdZhQvNPAhOH048BlXl6Xx_8ks6Vgu2vqDZlwU5HXi4RKfwkUeab1m8URRMPkUwRxI7YwnD2s3AhFBK5RXrBrGjx_t-n&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season. &nbsp;

The Omaha Supernovas aims to be the premier home of professional volleyball throughout the world. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo and entrepreneurs Danny White and Chris Erickson, Co-Founders of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiCarDNE6LKTVvjsP0GiLta8oUuJWdm2Tyf9hTGLIFFbLF0ayNFzzBk4eaeg9iTUuit4RV4XlAtWiH32OI1NDfeA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Story by Omaha Supernovas CommunicationOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiQGBJd9lJxwnlDCgzYk6YfDiQ2jprW8fftiT2c9SJGOA39rHsOaKD8nJHHSCTphRVkkXzfXSu4E0pX5BbNLhMLw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Omaha Supernovas,</a>&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team in the newly-established&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiCarDNE6LKTVvjsP0GiLta8oUuJWdm2Tyf9hTGLIFFbLF0ayNFzzBk4eaeg9iTUuit4RV4XlAtWiH32OI1NDfeA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Professional Volleyball Federation</a>, are excited to announce the official roster for Omaha’s first-ever Training Camp from January 3 through January 22.&nbsp;Training Camp will help determine the Supernovas’ 14-person roster for the first season of the Pro Volleyball Federation which starts on January 24 with Omaha hosting the Atlanta Vibe at 7 p.m. at the CHI Health Center. Both single match and season tickets are now available on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Ti5lqRy2RK4VtUf-thDlc7_Jp9obUdwAbFnBdEfK_zIrve7WhawljpdZONGoewgbob-4e6TzXjPSpLr9_e968wIQ==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Supernovas.com</a>. &nbsp;The Supernovas will invite 22 dynamic players from around the country to compete for one of 14 active roster spots for the inaugural season of the Pro Volleyball Federation. There will also be two more additional roster spots for college draftees to become practice players.&nbsp;&nbsp;Omaha’s roster features talent from around the globe with multiple All-Americans, NCAA National Champions and Olympians. The roster invites include Bethania De La Cruz, Tori Dixon, Danielle Hart, Sydney Hilley, Gina Mancuso-Prososki, Allison Mayfield, Brooke Nuneviller, Yossiana Pressley, Nia Reed, Jess Schaben-Lansman, Jazz Schmidt, Natalia Valentin-Anderson, Lindsey Vander Weide and Kendall White.&nbsp;Due to overseas obligations, Hristina Vuchkova will join the team in February. &nbsp;The Supernovas have also signed its first group of college draftees including Western Kentucky outside hitter Paige Briggs, Arkansas opposite Maggie Cartwright, James Madison middle blocker Sophie Davis and Nebraska native and Auburn middle Kyla Swanson.&nbsp;"It’s an exciting time for our Supernovas franchise, staff and all of our players,”&nbsp;Head Coach Shelton Collier&nbsp;said. “We open training camp with a mix of experienced veterans and talented young players. We are really looking forward to having a high-level training camp. Our support staff and admin team have been tremendous which has allowed us as coaches to really zone in on what we need to do in the gym. Our players are fired up and ready, which is exciting for all of us."&nbsp;&nbsp;Amber Igiede, who was selected No. 7 overall, will be playing overseas. &nbsp;Omaha has also invited former Western Michigan outside hitter Maggie King to Training Camp. The Cincinnati, Ohio native left the Broncos as one of the most prolific players in program history. King was a four-time All-MAC selection across her five seasons.&nbsp;King finished her career with 1,849 kills, 913 digs, 143 blocks and 120 aces in 146 matches. Her kill total stands at No. 2 overall in the career record book for the Broncos with her 3.50 kills per set career average sixth. She’s also the program’s all-time leader in career attempts (5,223) and second in career points (2,052).&nbsp;Emma Willis rounds out the Supernovas roster as another invitee. The former Denver University middle blocker spent all four seasons with the Pioneers. Willis was a premier blocker during her college career that spanned from 2015-2018 as she recorded 381 total blocks. Following her career at Denver, Willis spent a pair of seasons playing for the Zesar VFM Franches-Montagnes professional team in Switzerland.&nbsp;Supernovas Training Camp will be hosted at the state-of-the-art Lied Fitness Center at the College of Saint Mary.&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;competition will officially begin in the United States with the Omaha Supernovas hosting the Atlanta Vibe in the first match in league history at the CHI Health Center in downtown Omaha on January 24, at 7:00 p.m. CT. Nebraska supports volleyball better than anyone, as evidenced by the more than 92,000 fans that turned out this season for a collegiate match at the Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium in August, setting a new world record for the highest attended women’s sporting event.&nbsp;The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tik2QI3OfoE95WAVtUrodOiSKfUPdc5kQeSusx6n4nhPh13pUl-6s0yaWS-dVbNZFWLb6ePwU9hsRzhRnuIxltAhrkp4G6GnA2t0WxG7tZQ0kr6zDek1yTpajbgnB7cetA&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiqEtcfXfd8UqP5-w7Wj5RYSaJE5lc5vyMlq_vHU_sOeHrBnbB0mKCyimGAzjgE5QbV-BbNqfYuBXaRDSvJ6BBDg==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiTPAC9ZxeqM3QIeoz5R6HfLMuBTfXBddv-TKyRJJecL18fakTDJWLplAn7EthcDL5tV0Hz3EjGZj3GQoAhVcTXw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tit6HtIWxwFOsHpQnDjgxc-FyaaxY6mTKiy0W9RgmMeuyiJo2BSSsvoL90-y5Py4wr3Ip92N90o3zvM3Knc8AYMA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiD7OonXGfPJfhBho5UTLRePJCr2Otq-ira1lZOo0RiRpzl8w86LTLpDFclPK002CedQU760wnbIbRtcdviTcX7Q==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TihAJwi-sklt5IcytXH3WsA0GLByqYBELfyNYT7FyK6O6aXQqdaUgSWYvAQo2svtuav0-uPOBjlF7hhAAR_9UEBw==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3Tipww-JdZhQvNPAhOH048BlXl6Xx_8ks6Vgu2vqDZlwU5HXi4RKfwkUeab1m8URRMPkUwRxI7YwnD2s3AhFBK5RXrBrGjx_t-n&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season. &nbsp;ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas aims to be the premier home of professional volleyball throughout the world. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo and entrepreneurs Danny White and Chris Erickson, Co-Founders of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001n0Sno_Jmzj1a5Y7xHW1nrNeY90avMj-SEPDyNldKkr5sqTVFpsRKtNkScJ0ON3TiCarDNE6LKTVvjsP0GiLta8oUuJWdm2Tyf9hTGLIFFbLF0ayNFzzBk4eaeg9iTUuit4RV4XlAtWiH32OI1NDfeA==&amp;c=fTvKRUfUR1rs3SV8uSNNS1u6Hv1li_2FaDhNxRuHhlAEd6dt2T7RaA==&amp;ch=CerLd37JlKB5FnlbZhVWoDHBmjCYYbZ1-VbC-3QoDO0r-9th3Yco9Q==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Supernovas finalize roster ahead of inaugural Training Camp

Story by North Platte 80's Communication



The North Platte 80s will play in the Mountain Division of the Pecos LeagueIn 2024 the Mountain Division will consist of these teams.

These ten teams will play their entire season within the division.Six teams from the Mountain Division will qualify for the playoffs.The winner of the Pacific Division Playoffs will meet the winner of the Mountain Division Playoffs for a three game Pecos League Championship Series.The 80s will play their inaugural game at home against the Tucson Saguaros on May 28, 2024.The Pecos League Mountain Division All Star Game will be July 14th at Santa Fe.Below is a breakdown of the North Platte 80s Schedule.

Story by North Platte 80's Communication<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704213387476.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

The North Platte 80s will play in the Mountain Division of the Pecos LeagueIn 2024 the Mountain Division will consist of these teams.<ul>
 <li><a href="https://alpine.pecosleague.com/">Alpine Cowboys</a></li><li><a href="https://www.weirdosbaseball.com/">Austin Weirdos</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blackwellflycatchers.com/">Blackwell Flycatchers</a></li><li><a href="https://www.gardencitywind.com/">Garden City Wind</a></li><li><a href="https://www.northplatte80s.com/">North Platte 80s</a></li><li><a href="https://www.pecosbills.com/">Pecos Bills</a></li><li><a href="https://www.roswellinvaders.com/">Roswell Invaders</a></li><li><a href="https://www.santafefuego.com/">Santa Fe Fuego</a></li><li><a href="https://www.trinidadtriggers.com/">Trinidad Triggers</a></li><li><a href="https://www.saguarosbaseball.com/">Tucson Saguaros</a></li>
 </ul>These ten teams will play their entire season within the division.Six teams from the Mountain Division will qualify for the playoffs.The winner of the Pacific Division Playoffs will meet the winner of the Mountain Division Playoffs for a three game Pecos League Championship Series.The 80s will play their inaugural game at home against the Tucson Saguaros on May 28, 2024.The Pecos League Mountain Division All Star Game will be July 14th at Santa Fe.Below is a breakdown of the North Platte 80s Schedule.<ul>
 <li>Total Games: 54</li><li>Total Home Games: 25</li><li>Total Away Games: 29</li><li>Roswell Invaders away Games: 3</li><li>Austin Weirdos home Games: 6</li><li>Tucson Saguaros home Games: 2</li><li>Blackwell Flycatchers home Games: 5</li><li>Blackwell Flycatchers away Games: 8</li><li>Santa Fe Fuego home Games: 2</li><li>Santa Fe Fuego away Games: 2</li><li>Trinidad Triggers home Games: 3</li><li>Trinidad Triggers Away Games: 8</li><li>Garden City Wind home Games: 7</li><li>Garden City Wind Away Games: 8</li>
 </ul>

North Platte 80s release their inaugural 2024 schedule

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Nebraska men’s tennis team released its 2024 spring schedule, as the Huskers will host a double header on January 13 in Lincoln, Neb., to begin the season.

NU’s spring opener against North Dakota and Creighton, and all home matches, will be held at the Dillon Tennis Center. This spring season, the Huskers will compete in 25 dual matches, including nine matches against Big Ten conference opponents to close out the season.

In the fall, NU went 37-33 in singles play and 16-15 in doubles. Most notably from the fall, junior Calvin Mueller posted a 10-3 record en route to the Big Ten Individual Championship. Doubles duo Anton Shepp and Nic Wiedenhorn went 4-3 on the season, after making it to the semifinals match in the ITA Regionals Tournament. The pair was invited to ITA Nationals in California to close out fall play. Also finding success on the doubles court was duo Mueller and Leo Linquet, reaching a 3-1 record and placing second at the Milwaukee Tennis Classic.

From the 2022-23 season, Nebraska has seven returning letterwinners, including Rudi Christiansen, Roni Hietaranta, Lars Johann, Leo Linquet, Shunya Maruyama, Calvin Mueller and Nic Wiedenhorn. In the fall, NU welcomed four newcomers, transfers Anton Shepp, Nikolay Sysoev and Henry Bilicic, and freshman Colson Wells, for the 2023-24 season.

Stay tuned to the Husker Men’s Tennis social media channels to keep up with spring play updates and content.

<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/mens-tennis/schedule">2024 Nebraska Men’s Tennis Spring Schedule</a>

Jan. 13 vs North Dakota 11 AM, Creighton 4 PM

Jan. 26 ITA Kick-Off vs Alabama (time TBD)Jan. 27 Kentucky or Notre Dame (time TBD)

Feb. 17 at Oregon (time TBD)Feb. 23 vs Texas Tech 6 PM

Mar. 9 at UCSD (time TBD)Mar. 13 vs Yale at UCSB (time TBD)Mar. 15 at UCSB 1 PM

Mar. 30 vs Wisconsin 12 PM*, Illinois State 6 PM

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska men’s tennis team released its 2024 spring schedule, as the Huskers will host a double header on January 13 in Lincoln, Neb., to begin the season.NU’s spring opener against North Dakota and Creighton, and all home matches, will be held at the Dillon Tennis Center. This spring season, the Huskers will compete in 25 dual matches, including nine matches against Big Ten conference opponents to close out the season.In the fall, NU went 37-33 in singles play and 16-15 in doubles. Most notably from the fall, junior Calvin Mueller posted a 10-3 record en route to the Big Ten Individual Championship. Doubles duo Anton Shepp and Nic Wiedenhorn went 4-3 on the season, after making it to the semifinals match in the ITA Regionals Tournament. The pair was invited to ITA Nationals in California to close out fall play. Also finding success on the doubles court was duo Mueller and Leo Linquet, reaching a 3-1 record and placing second at the Milwaukee Tennis Classic.From the 2022-23 season, Nebraska has seven returning letterwinners, including Rudi Christiansen, Roni Hietaranta, Lars Johann, Leo Linquet, Shunya Maruyama, Calvin Mueller and Nic Wiedenhorn. In the fall, NU welcomed four newcomers, transfers Anton Shepp, Nikolay Sysoev and Henry Bilicic, and freshman Colson Wells, for the 2023-24 season.Stay tuned to the Husker Men’s Tennis social media channels to keep up with spring play updates and content.<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/mens-tennis/schedule">2024 Nebraska Men’s Tennis Spring Schedule</a>Jan. 13 vs North Dakota 11 AM, Creighton 4 PMJan. 21 vs Omaha 11 AM, Creighton 5 PMJan. 26 ITA Kick-Off vs Alabama (time TBD)Jan. 27 Kentucky or Notre Dame (time TBD)Feb. 3 at Baylor 6 PMFeb. 10 vs Arkansas 1 PMFeb. 11 vs Gonzaga 11 AMFeb. 17 at Oregon (time TBD)Feb. 23 vs Texas Tech 6 PMFeb. 25 vs Tulsa 12 PMMar. 9 at UCSD (time TBD)Mar. 13 vs Yale at UCSB (time TBD)Mar. 15 at UCSB 1 PMMar. 22 at Michigan State 6 PM*Mar. 24 at Michigan 12 PM*Mar. 30 vs Wisconsin 12 PM*, Illinois State 6 PMApr. 5 vs Illinois 6 PM*Apr. 7 vs Northwestern 12 PM*Apr. 12 at Indiana 4 PM*Apr. 14 at Purdue 12 PM*Apr. 19 vs Ohio State 5 PM*Apr. 21 vs Penn State 12 PM**Big Ten Matches&nbsp;

Huskers set 2024 spring schedule

Lincoln&nbsp;- Alexis Markowski, Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts all produced double-doubles to power the Nebraska women's basketball to its first-ever home victory over Maryland in front of nearly 8,800 fans at Pinnacle Bank Arena on New Year's Eve.

With the with, Nebraska improved to 2-0 in the Big Ten Conference and 10-3 overall, while Maryland slipped to 9-4 overall and 1-1 in the conference. It was NU's second win in the last three meetings with the Terrapins.

Markowski did the most consistent damage from start to finish, recording her eighth double-double of the season with 20 points and 10 rebounds. It also marked the fourth 20-point performance of the season for the Lisa Leslie Award candidate from Lincoln, after getting 10 points in each of the first and second halves on Sunday for the Big Red.

Potts, a three-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week, added the second double-double of her young career with 17 points and a career-high 13 rebounds. The 6-2 forward from O'Fallon, Mo., scored 13 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in the final 20 minutes alone to play a huge role in the Huskers outscoring the Terrapins 48-43 in the second half.

Potts, who had seven offensive rebounds in the second half, and Markowski combined for 23 of Nebraska's 48 rebounds in the game, as the Huskers dominated the Big Ten's top team in total rebounds, 48-30, on the glass. Potts also went 7-for-7 from the free throw line in the game, including 4-for-4 in the final 45 seconds to help the Huskers seal the win.

Shelley contributed 13 points and a game-high 11 assists for her second double-double of the year and 12th of her career. Shelley's production came despite battling early foul trouble.

In addition to the impressive contributions from Shelley, Potts and Markowski, Nebraska got a career-high-tying 16 points from Callin Hake off the bench. The sophomore guard from Victoria, Minn., not only knocked down 4-of-7 threes to spark the Huskers, she added five big rebounds and several key defensive plays.

Graduate guard Darian White pitched in eight points, including 5-of-6 free throw shooting in the final 1:30, to help the Huskers hold off the Terps. As a team, Nebraska connected on 23-of-26 free throws (.885) on the day.

Graduate guard Maddie Krull contributed five points, four rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block to help slow down Maryland's high-powered offense.&nbsp;

The Huskers held Terrapin star Shyanne Sellers to just four points while committing seven turnovers on the day. Maryland's starters totaled just 37 points in 130 minutes, but the Terps hung with the Huskers to the buzzer by getting 44 points in just 70 minutes from their bench.

Lavender Briggs, who missed Maryland's past five games, led the Terps with a game-high 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting, including 3-of-6 threes. Riley Nelson added 11 points in less than 10 minutes on 3-of-4 shooting from the field and a 4-of-5 effort from the line.

As a team, Maryland hit 50 percent (32-64) of its shots, including 7-of-23 threes (.304), while hitting 10-of-16 free throws (.625). Maryland committed 26 fouls, as Sellers, Jakia Brown-Turner and Bri McDaniel all fouled out in the fourth quarter while trying to extend the game after the Big Red built a 10-point fourth-quarter advantage. The Terps committed 17 of their 26 fouls in the final 20 minutes.

Nebraska hit just 39.1 percent (27-69) of its shots, but the Huskers outworked the Terps 20-8 on the offensive glass. The Big Red also hit 10-of-32 three-pointers (.313), marking the seventh time this season NU has hit double-digit threes in a game.&nbsp;

In a tight and well-played game from start-to-finish, the two teams were tied at 20 at the end of one quarter, before Nebraska took a 39-38 lead to the locker room at halftime. The Huskers took control by outscoring the Terrapins 24-16 in the third quarter to push the margin to 63-54 after 30 minutes. Nebraska took its biggest lead at 66-56 on a Shelley three-pointer with 8:30 left, before securing the 87-81 win.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsLincoln&nbsp;- Alexis Markowski, Jaz Shelley and Natalie Potts all produced double-doubles to power the Nebraska women's basketball to its first-ever home victory over Maryland in front of nearly 8,800 fans at Pinnacle Bank Arena on New Year's Eve.With the with, Nebraska improved to 2-0 in the Big Ten Conference and 10-3 overall, while Maryland slipped to 9-4 overall and 1-1 in the conference. It was NU's second win in the last three meetings with the Terrapins.Markowski did the most consistent damage from start to finish, recording her eighth double-double of the season with 20 points and 10 rebounds. It also marked the fourth 20-point performance of the season for the Lisa Leslie Award candidate from Lincoln, after getting 10 points in each of the first and second halves on Sunday for the Big Red.Potts, a three-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week, added the second double-double of her young career with 17 points and a career-high 13 rebounds. The 6-2 forward from O'Fallon, Mo., scored 13 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in the final 20 minutes alone to play a huge role in the Huskers outscoring the Terrapins 48-43 in the second half.Potts, who had seven offensive rebounds in the second half, and Markowski combined for 23 of Nebraska's 48 rebounds in the game, as the Huskers dominated the Big Ten's top team in total rebounds, 48-30, on the glass. Potts also went 7-for-7 from the free throw line in the game, including 4-for-4 in the final 45 seconds to help the Huskers seal the win.Shelley contributed 13 points and a game-high 11 assists for her second double-double of the year and 12th of her career. Shelley's production came despite battling early foul trouble.In addition to the impressive contributions from Shelley, Potts and Markowski, Nebraska got a career-high-tying 16 points from Callin Hake off the bench. The sophomore guard from Victoria, Minn., not only knocked down 4-of-7 threes to spark the Huskers, she added five big rebounds and several key defensive plays.Graduate guard Darian White pitched in eight points, including 5-of-6 free throw shooting in the final 1:30, to help the Huskers hold off the Terps. As a team, Nebraska connected on 23-of-26 free throws (.885) on the day.Graduate guard Maddie Krull contributed five points, four rebounds, four assists, two steals and a block to help slow down Maryland's high-powered offense.&nbsp;The Huskers held Terrapin star Shyanne Sellers to just four points while committing seven turnovers on the day. Maryland's starters totaled just 37 points in 130 minutes, but the Terps hung with the Huskers to the buzzer by getting 44 points in just 70 minutes from their bench.Lavender Briggs, who missed Maryland's past five games, led the Terps with a game-high 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting, including 3-of-6 threes. Riley Nelson added 11 points in less than 10 minutes on 3-of-4 shooting from the field and a 4-of-5 effort from the line.As a team, Maryland hit 50 percent (32-64) of its shots, including 7-of-23 threes (.304), while hitting 10-of-16 free throws (.625). Maryland committed 26 fouls, as Sellers, Jakia Brown-Turner and Bri McDaniel all fouled out in the fourth quarter while trying to extend the game after the Big Red built a 10-point fourth-quarter advantage. The Terps committed 17 of their 26 fouls in the final 20 minutes.Nebraska hit just 39.1 percent (27-69) of its shots, but the Huskers outworked the Terps 20-8 on the offensive glass. The Big Red also hit 10-of-32 three-pointers (.313), marking the seventh time this season NU has hit double-digit threes in a game.&nbsp;In a tight and well-played game from start-to-finish, the two teams were tied at 20 at the end of one quarter, before Nebraska took a 39-38 lead to the locker room at halftime. The Huskers took control by outscoring the Terrapins 24-16 in the third quarter to push the margin to 63-54 after 30 minutes. Nebraska took its biggest lead at 66-56 on a Shelley three-pointer with 8:30 left, before securing the 87-81 win.&nbsp;

Three Huskers post double-double in win over Maryland

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco failed to show up Thursday for a meeting with a prosecutor who is investigating him for an alleged relationship with a minor.

Prosecutor Olga Diná Llaverías said the investigation will continue regardless of Franco's no-show. She waited for the All-Star player and his lawyers at her office, but they didn't appear.

Dominican prosecutors and police showed up on Tuesday at a Franco property in Baní, his hometown about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southwest of Santo Domingo. They did not find the 22-year-old player to request he appear for testimony.

The Dominican Republic's prosecutors' office said on Aug. 14 that Franco was under investigation because of postings on his social media channels suggesting he had a relationship with a minor. The Associated Press has not been able to verify the reported posts.

Franco's no-show could be because his current lawyers may not have been summoned for the meeting. The AP had access to a document in which lawyers Luz Díaz Rodríguez, Rosalina Trueba, Cristian Cabrera and Manuel Rodríguez were dismissed by Franco.

Franco was suspended by Major League Baseball in August as the investigation started in his country. He will be paid and receive service time while on administrative leave under an agreement with the players’ association. There is no set timetable for a decision on whether he will be disciplined by MLB.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687745699564.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., left, looks on as Tampa Bay Rays' Wander Franco, bottom right, beats a tag by Royals second baseman Samad Taylor for a stolen base during the fourth inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 25, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., left, looks on as Tampa Bay Rays' Wander Franco, bottom right, beats a tag by Royals second baseman Samad Taylor for a stolen base during the fourth inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 25, 2023, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)</figcaption>
 </figure>SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Suspended Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco failed to show up Thursday for a meeting with a prosecutor who is investigating him for an alleged relationship with a minor.Prosecutor Olga Diná Llaverías said the investigation will continue regardless of Franco's no-show. She waited for the All-Star player and his lawyers at her office, but they didn't appear.Dominican prosecutors and police showed up on Tuesday at a Franco property in Baní, his hometown about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southwest of Santo Domingo. They did not find the 22-year-old player to request he appear for testimony.The Dominican Republic's prosecutors' office said on Aug. 14 that Franco was under investigation because of postings on his social media channels suggesting he had a relationship with a minor. The Associated Press has not been able to verify the reported posts.Franco's no-show could be because his current lawyers may not have been summoned for the meeting. The AP had access to a document in which lawyers Luz Díaz Rodríguez, Rosalina Trueba, Cristian Cabrera and Manuel Rodríguez were dismissed by Franco.Franco was suspended by Major League Baseball in August as the investigation started in his country. He will be paid and receive service time while on administrative leave under an agreement with the players’ association. There is no set timetable for a decision on whether he will be disciplined by MLB.

Dominican baseball player Wander Franco fails to appear at prosecutor's office amid investigation

Story by Tri-City Storm Communications

FARGO, ND.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm returns to action tonight at Scheels Arena following the holiday break for a showdown against the league-leading Fargo Force. Tonight’s game is the first of two back-to-back road battles the Storm will have with the Force before returning home to the Viaero Center for a New Year’s Eve matchup against the Lincoln Stars. Tri-City’s New Year’s Eve Game will include a postgame autograph session with Trevor Connelly and Philippe Blais-Savoie. Tickets to Sunday’s upcoming home game at the Viaero Center may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office hours at 308-338-8144. Tonight’s road game at Scheels Arena will begin at 7:05pm CT, and puck drop for Sunday’s rivalry game against the Lincoln Stars at the Viaero Center is scheduled for 6:05pm CT. &nbsp;

Tri-City (13-9-1-1) completed the pre-holiday break portion of the 2023-2023 regular season schedule with a five-goal victory over the Lincoln Stars at the Viaero Center on Saturday, December 16th. Blake Steenerson scored twice during the game, and recorded the first multi-goal game of his USHL career. Artemi Nizameyev netted a powerplay goal during the 1st&nbsp;period, and Seth Constance scored his second goal of the season during the 1st&nbsp;period. Ryan Smith scored the only goal of the 2nd&nbsp;period, and Owen Beckner netted his sixth goal of the season during the 3rd&nbsp;period. Cameron Korpi backstopped Tri-City to the victory, recording 29 saves on 30 shots during the rivalry showdown. The Storm has posted a 17-8-2-0 record in head-to-head matchups against the Force over the past five seasons, and Tri-City narrowly won last year’s eight-game season series against Fargo with a final record of 4-3-1-0. The Storm is 6-6-1-0 against the Force in games played at Scheels Arena over the last five years. Tonight’s game is the opening game of this year’s six-game series between the two Western Conference opponents. Scoring leaders for the Storm through the first twenty-four games of the regular season include August Falloon (11), Ryan Smith (11), Trevor Connelly (8), Cam Briere (8), and Artemi Nizameyev (7). Tri-City has posted a 10-3-0-0 record in head-to-head games against Western Conference competition this season. &nbsp;

Fargo (22-3-1-0) currently holds a six-point lead over the Sioux City Musketeers for first place in the USHL’s league standings following last year’s Anderson Cup Championship season. The Force began the 2023-2024 regular season on an organizational-record ten-game winning streak, and fourteen-game point streak. Fargo has won eight of its last nine games entering tonight’s home game at Scheels Arena against Tri-City. The Force has posted a 9-0-1-0 record in ten games played at Scheels Arena during the 2023-2024 regular season. Tonight’s battle is the first meeting between the Storm and the Force since last year’s postseason battle where Fargo eliminated Tri-City in the Western Conference Semifinal Round of the 2023 Clark Cup Playoffs. The Force reached the Championship series, but fell in three games to the Youngstown Phantoms. Fargo has posted a 14-0-0-0 record when leading after the 1st&nbsp;period, and a 15-0-1-0 record when leading after the 2nd&nbsp;period this season. The Force’s 110 goals scored this season are the second-most of any Western Conference team (Sioux City-115). Fargo has allowed only 49 goals this year, the best mark of any team in the league by 25 goals (Youngstown-74). Scoring leaders for the league-leading Force entering tonight’s home game against the Storm include Zam Plante (13), Lee Parks (11), Harper Bentz (11), Michael La Starza (9), Leo Gruba (8), and Jake Fisher (8). The Force will host the Storm tomorrow night, and again on Thursday, January 18th, before traveling to Kearney for the final three games of the season series on Friday, March 15th, Saturday, March 16th, and Sunday, March 17th. &nbsp;

Ticket specials for the Storm’s New Year’s Eve home game include a Nebraska Lottery Rivalry Four-Pack. The rivalry pack ticket package includes four tickets to the game, four hot dogs, four sodas, and ten Nebraska Lottery Scratch-Off Tickets for $44. For more information on Sunday’s ticket specials, call the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144. &nbsp;

Storm duo, and World Junior A Hockey Challenge Bronze Medalists, Trevor Connelly and Philippe Blais-Savoie will be available for autographs and photos following the Storm's New Year's Eve game on Sunday, December 31st&nbsp;at the Viaero Center. The Meet and Greet will begin approximately thirty minutes after the game ends.&nbsp;Canned goods and non-perishable food items will be collected and donated to various local organizations. The first 500 fans who bring an item to be donated will receive a limited-edition photo of Trevor and Philippe, which was taken following the Bronze Medal game, when the United States defeated Sweden 8-5. Canned goods and non-perishable food items will be collected at the start of the Meet and Greet line. &nbsp;

Tonight’s game is set to begin at&nbsp;7:05pm&nbsp;CT and will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://flosports.link/3pkG3Ge" target="_blank">FloHockey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/tri-city-storm/" target="_blank">Storm Radio</a>. Tickets to home games at the Viaero Center may be purchased online by skating to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office hours at 308-338-8144. The Tri-City Storm is presented by Viaero Wireless.

Story by Tri-City Storm CommunicationsFARGO, ND.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm returns to action tonight at Scheels Arena following the holiday break for a showdown against the league-leading Fargo Force. Tonight’s game is the first of two back-to-back road battles the Storm will have with the Force before returning home to the Viaero Center for a New Year’s Eve matchup against the Lincoln Stars. Tri-City’s New Year’s Eve Game will include a postgame autograph session with Trevor Connelly and Philippe Blais-Savoie. Tickets to Sunday’s upcoming home game at the Viaero Center may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office hours at 308-338-8144. Tonight’s road game at Scheels Arena will begin at 7:05pm CT, and puck drop for Sunday’s rivalry game against the Lincoln Stars at the Viaero Center is scheduled for 6:05pm CT. &nbsp;Tri-City (13-9-1-1) completed the pre-holiday break portion of the 2023-2023 regular season schedule with a five-goal victory over the Lincoln Stars at the Viaero Center on Saturday, December 16th. Blake Steenerson scored twice during the game, and recorded the first multi-goal game of his USHL career. Artemi Nizameyev netted a powerplay goal during the 1st&nbsp;period, and Seth Constance scored his second goal of the season during the 1st&nbsp;period. Ryan Smith scored the only goal of the 2nd&nbsp;period, and Owen Beckner netted his sixth goal of the season during the 3rd&nbsp;period. Cameron Korpi backstopped Tri-City to the victory, recording 29 saves on 30 shots during the rivalry showdown. The Storm has posted a 17-8-2-0 record in head-to-head matchups against the Force over the past five seasons, and Tri-City narrowly won last year’s eight-game season series against Fargo with a final record of 4-3-1-0. The Storm is 6-6-1-0 against the Force in games played at Scheels Arena over the last five years. Tonight’s game is the opening game of this year’s six-game series between the two Western Conference opponents. Scoring leaders for the Storm through the first twenty-four games of the regular season include August Falloon (11), Ryan Smith (11), Trevor Connelly (8), Cam Briere (8), and Artemi Nizameyev (7). Tri-City has posted a 10-3-0-0 record in head-to-head games against Western Conference competition this season. &nbsp;Fargo (22-3-1-0) currently holds a six-point lead over the Sioux City Musketeers for first place in the USHL’s league standings following last year’s Anderson Cup Championship season. The Force began the 2023-2024 regular season on an organizational-record ten-game winning streak, and fourteen-game point streak. Fargo has won eight of its last nine games entering tonight’s home game at Scheels Arena against Tri-City. The Force has posted a 9-0-1-0 record in ten games played at Scheels Arena during the 2023-2024 regular season. Tonight’s battle is the first meeting between the Storm and the Force since last year’s postseason battle where Fargo eliminated Tri-City in the Western Conference Semifinal Round of the 2023 Clark Cup Playoffs. The Force reached the Championship series, but fell in three games to the Youngstown Phantoms. Fargo has posted a 14-0-0-0 record when leading after the 1st&nbsp;period, and a 15-0-1-0 record when leading after the 2nd&nbsp;period this season. The Force’s 110 goals scored this season are the second-most of any Western Conference team (Sioux City-115). Fargo has allowed only 49 goals this year, the best mark of any team in the league by 25 goals (Youngstown-74). Scoring leaders for the league-leading Force entering tonight’s home game against the Storm include Zam Plante (13), Lee Parks (11), Harper Bentz (11), Michael La Starza (9), Leo Gruba (8), and Jake Fisher (8). The Force will host the Storm tomorrow night, and again on Thursday, January 18th, before traveling to Kearney for the final three games of the season series on Friday, March 15th, Saturday, March 16th, and Sunday, March 17th. &nbsp;Ticket specials for the Storm’s New Year’s Eve home game include a Nebraska Lottery Rivalry Four-Pack. The rivalry pack ticket package includes four tickets to the game, four hot dogs, four sodas, and ten Nebraska Lottery Scratch-Off Tickets for $44. For more information on Sunday’s ticket specials, call the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144. &nbsp;Storm duo, and World Junior A Hockey Challenge Bronze Medalists, Trevor Connelly and Philippe Blais-Savoie will be available for autographs and photos following the Storm's New Year's Eve game on Sunday, December 31st&nbsp;at the Viaero Center. The Meet and Greet will begin approximately thirty minutes after the game ends.&nbsp;Canned goods and non-perishable food items will be collected and donated to various local organizations. The first 500 fans who bring an item to be donated will receive a limited-edition photo of Trevor and Philippe, which was taken following the Bronze Medal game, when the United States defeated Sweden 8-5. Canned goods and non-perishable food items will be collected at the start of the Meet and Greet line. &nbsp;Tonight’s game is set to begin at&nbsp;7:05pm&nbsp;CT and will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://flosports.link/3pkG3Ge" target="_blank">FloHockey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/tri-city-storm/" target="_blank">Storm Radio</a>. Tickets to home games at the Viaero Center may be purchased online by skating to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office hours at 308-338-8144. The Tri-City Storm is presented by Viaero Wireless.

Storm returns to action against First-Place Force 

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos are benching quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/arnie_stapleton/status/1740152831078707650?s=20">Russell Wilson</a>&nbsp;in a move that could have major ramifications for both his future and theirs.

Although the move keeps open the team's options next year and could ultimately save the Broncos $37 million, coach Sean Payton on Wednesday called the switch to journeyman Jarrett Stidham more of a football decision than a financial one.

“I understand all the speculation and everything that surrounds a move like that, and I can tell you we’re desperately trying to win,” Payton said. “Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those other things, but the No. 1 push behind this ... is to get a spark offensively.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/broncos-analysis-week-16-payton-d23c12fb96d722379cb2a8444fc53bcd">Broncos</a>&nbsp;(7-8) have a narrow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-mahomes-kelce-reid-e6e5b864a2c246fc7c6d58ca87f8e731">path to the playoffs</a>. They'd have to win out and Kansas City (9-5) would have to lose out for Denver to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2015 season.

Payton said the entire offensive operation, himself included, has been deficient and this move isn't meant as an indictment of Wilson alone.

“I can’t replace the entire offensive line, I can’t bring in five new receivers,” Payton said, "and if it continues over a period of time, then there’ll be another guy here talking to you, as well.”

Payton and Wilson have always been a clash of styles and two weeks ago Payton berated his QB on the sideline while Wilson patiently listened without response.

Going with a journeyman with two NFL starts in his five-year career over a Super Bowl champion who was the fastest QB in league history to 100 wins could backfire on Payton.

“There's always risk but as a head coach you've got to make some tough decisions and they're not always going to be right,” Payton said. “So, you trust your instincts and you go by what you feel and those have been good for me over the years.”

Stidham will start Sunday when the Broncos host the Los Angeles Chargers (5-10) and in all likelihood start at Las Vegas in the season finale, too.

It's a remarkably similar situation to last year when Stidham started the Raiders' final two games after the team benched Derek Carr in a business decision and sent him home.

This circumstance in Denver differs from the Raiders' situation a year ago because the Broncos will dress Wilson, who could theoretically get into the game Sunday.

If Wilson doesn't play another down this season, however, the Broncos will have kept open their options in 2024 — although his five-year, $242.6 million contract extension that kicks in next season carries massive dead money chargers over the next two years if Denver decides to part ways with Wilson.

Wilson's $39 million salary for next season is already guaranteed but if he's on the roster March 17, his 2025 salary of $37 million also becomes guaranteed. Because injured players cannot be cut, the Broncos would be on the hook for that 2025 salary if Wilson gets hurt and can't pass his spring physical.

That's the reason the Raiders sent Carr home a year ago.

Payton insisted no determination has been made about Wilson's future in Denver, although it will be hard to move on from him because of the salary cap hit the Broncos would absorb.

If the Broncos release Wilson after June 1, they’d owe him his $39 million salary for next season and they'd owe $85 million in dead money spread over two years, which would seriously handicap their roster building and force Payton to find a bargain solution at quarterback, something that could be difficult with a middling group of free agent QBs in 2024.

Trading Wilson before June 1 would leave the Broncos with $68 million in dead money next season unless the acquiring team would pay his $22 million option bonus.

The Broncos, who have traded away three first- and three second-round picks to acquire Wilson and Payton, have just six selections in next April's draft and no second-rounders.

They'll likely be picking in the teens, too, when the four QBs projected as first-rounders — USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, LSU’s Jayden Daniels and J.J. McCarthy, should he leave Michigan — figure to be long gone by the time the Broncos are on the clock.

Wilson made a brief appearance at his locker Wednesday, but the team said he won't address his benching until Friday.

After the Broncos lost to the Patriots on Christmas Eve, Wilson was asked about his future in Denver and said, "I came here to win a championship for us and to find a way to do that. I obviously love being here with these guys, these teammates. I’m excited to keep playing ball and playing hard for us.”

Wilson has rebounded from an awful 2023 season when he threw a career-low 16 touchdown passes to go with 11 interceptions. This year, his 26 TD throws rank sixth in the league and he has eight interceptions.

Wilson is just 11-19 as Denver's starter since the blockbuster trade brought him over from Seattle last year. The Seahawks are 17-16 since then and reached the NFC playoffs last season behind Wilson's former backup, Geno Smith.

Payton called each QB into his office Wednesday to notify them of the switch. He said Wilson was disappointed but had responded like a true pro.

Stidham, who signed a two-year, $10 million deal with Denver last offseason, worked with the starters Wednesday for the first time save for a handful of snaps he took at Detroit two weeks ago.

“To get a true evaluation and see what he can do, I mean, he needs to play,” Payton said. “But I'm hopeful he gives us a spark.”

Story by the Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703770905128.jpeg" alt="Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham throws during warmups of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/David Dermer)" />
 <figcaption>Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham throws during warmups of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, in Detroit. (AP Photo/David Dermer)</figcaption>
 </figure>ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The Denver Broncos are benching quarterback&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/arnie_stapleton/status/1740152831078707650?s=20">Russell Wilson</a>&nbsp;in a move that could have major ramifications for both his future and theirs.Although the move keeps open the team's options next year and could ultimately save the Broncos $37 million, coach Sean Payton on Wednesday called the switch to journeyman Jarrett Stidham more of a football decision than a financial one.“I understand all the speculation and everything that surrounds a move like that, and I can tell you we’re desperately trying to win,” Payton said. “Sure, in our game today there are economics and all those other things, but the No. 1 push behind this ... is to get a spark offensively.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/broncos-analysis-week-16-payton-d23c12fb96d722379cb2a8444fc53bcd">Broncos</a>&nbsp;(7-8) have a narrow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-chiefs-mahomes-kelce-reid-e6e5b864a2c246fc7c6d58ca87f8e731">path to the playoffs</a>. They'd have to win out and Kansas City (9-5) would have to lose out for Denver to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2015 season.Payton said the entire offensive operation, himself included, has been deficient and this move isn't meant as an indictment of Wilson alone.“I can’t replace the entire offensive line, I can’t bring in five new receivers,” Payton said, "and if it continues over a period of time, then there’ll be another guy here talking to you, as well.”Payton and Wilson have always been a clash of styles and two weeks ago Payton berated his QB on the sideline while Wilson patiently listened without response.Going with a journeyman with two NFL starts in his five-year career over a Super Bowl champion who was the fastest QB in league history to 100 wins could backfire on Payton.“There's always risk but as a head coach you've got to make some tough decisions and they're not always going to be right,” Payton said. “So, you trust your instincts and you go by what you feel and those have been good for me over the years.”Stidham will start Sunday when the Broncos host the Los Angeles Chargers (5-10) and in all likelihood start at Las Vegas in the season finale, too.It's a remarkably similar situation to last year when Stidham started the Raiders' final two games after the team benched Derek Carr in a business decision and sent him home.This circumstance in Denver differs from the Raiders' situation a year ago because the Broncos will dress Wilson, who could theoretically get into the game Sunday.If Wilson doesn't play another down this season, however, the Broncos will have kept open their options in 2024 — although his five-year, $242.6 million contract extension that kicks in next season carries massive dead money chargers over the next two years if Denver decides to part ways with Wilson.Wilson's $39 million salary for next season is already guaranteed but if he's on the roster March 17, his 2025 salary of $37 million also becomes guaranteed. Because injured players cannot be cut, the Broncos would be on the hook for that 2025 salary if Wilson gets hurt and can't pass his spring physical.That's the reason the Raiders sent Carr home a year ago.Payton insisted no determination has been made about Wilson's future in Denver, although it will be hard to move on from him because of the salary cap hit the Broncos would absorb.If the Broncos release Wilson after June 1, they’d owe him his $39 million salary for next season and they'd owe $85 million in dead money spread over two years, which would seriously handicap their roster building and force Payton to find a bargain solution at quarterback, something that could be difficult with a middling group of free agent QBs in 2024.Trading Wilson before June 1 would leave the Broncos with $68 million in dead money next season unless the acquiring team would pay his $22 million option bonus.The Broncos, who have traded away three first- and three second-round picks to acquire Wilson and Payton, have just six selections in next April's draft and no second-rounders.They'll likely be picking in the teens, too, when the four QBs projected as first-rounders — USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, LSU’s Jayden Daniels and J.J. McCarthy, should he leave Michigan — figure to be long gone by the time the Broncos are on the clock.Wilson made a brief appearance at his locker Wednesday, but the team said he won't address his benching until Friday.After the Broncos lost to the Patriots on Christmas Eve, Wilson was asked about his future in Denver and said, "I came here to win a championship for us and to find a way to do that. I obviously love being here with these guys, these teammates. I’m excited to keep playing ball and playing hard for us.”Wilson has rebounded from an awful 2023 season when he threw a career-low 16 touchdown passes to go with 11 interceptions. This year, his 26 TD throws rank sixth in the league and he has eight interceptions.Wilson is just 11-19 as Denver's starter since the blockbuster trade brought him over from Seattle last year. The Seahawks are 17-16 since then and reached the NFC playoffs last season behind Wilson's former backup, Geno Smith.Payton called each QB into his office Wednesday to notify them of the switch. He said Wilson was disappointed but had responded like a true pro.Stidham, who signed a two-year, $10 million deal with Denver last offseason, worked with the starters Wednesday for the first time save for a handful of snaps he took at Detroit two weeks ago.“To get a true evaluation and see what he can do, I mean, he needs to play,” Payton said. “But I'm hopeful he gives us a spark.”

Denver Broncos bench QB Russell Wilson and will turn to Jarrett Stidham

Southwest wrestling coach Jay Helberg, NSWCA Hall of Fame 2024 Inductee

Story by Pro Volleyball Federation

COLUMBUS, Ohio / FRISCO, Texas –&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation, the professional women’s volleyball league in the United States, has teamed up with USA Volleyball – the national governing body of the sport in the U.S. – to promote volleyball at its highest level.&nbsp;

USA Volleyball will support Pro Volleyball Federation’s professional league in America, which launches in January. The partnership reinforces the League’s commitment to work with USA Volleyball clubs, athletes and regions while USAV supports Pro Volleyball Federation’s commitment to providing top professional opportunities to America’s greatest female volleyball players. &nbsp;

“We are so proud to provide these world-class athletes within the USA Volleyball pipeline with a domestic opportunity to play professionally at the highest level in the United States while still being able to pursue their dreams of representing their country on the U.S. National Team,” touted Dave Whinham, co-founder of the Pro Volleyball Federation. “We have tremendous respect for the work being done by USA Volleyball and its 40 regions throughout the country, and we are excited to strengthen the entire volleyball pipeline in our nation.”&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation currently boasts 17 players from the United States who have spent time in the U.S. National Team gym. Overall, there are 35 domestic and international players in the League who have been part of their respective country’s Olympic or national team system.&nbsp;

More than 135 athletes have signed contracts to play in the inaugural season of Pro Volleyball Federation. They will be led by a group of accomplished coaches who have combined for more than 2,500 career victories. &nbsp;

“Pro Volleyball Federation has created a buzz not only in the United States, but throughout the world of volleyball,” said Jamie Davis, President and CEO of USA Volleyball. “We are thrilled to partner with Pro Volleyball Federation and see the League as a great platform where so many outstanding American players can continue their careers as professional athletes and US National Team members.”&nbsp;

There is also no lack of Team USA representation within the ranks of Pro Volleyball Federation. In addition to the athletes, four-time Olympic medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings leads the ownership group of the San Diego Mojo. The Mojo feature three-time Olympian and two-time silver medalist Tayyiba Haneef-Park as head coach, while Team USA stars Logan Tom and Laurie Corbelli bring extensive national team experience to Pro Volleyball Federation’s executive staff.&nbsp;

The Mojo is one of seven teams playing in the League’s first season, joining the Atlanta Vibe, Columbus Fury, Grand Rapids Rise, Omaha Supernovas, Orlando Valkyries, and Vegas Thrill. The second season in 2025 will welcome numerous additional squads, with Dallas, Indianapolis and Kansas City already announced as 2025 markets.&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation’s inaugural season begins on January 24 and runs through mid-May. Each city is supported by ownership groups who have invested in the future of the League. Team rosters will consist of 14 active members, each receiving a minimum salary of $60,000. Players on the championship team will also share a $1 million bonus.&nbsp;

ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.provolleyball.com/" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Founded in 1928, USA Volleyball is a non-profit organization recognized by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and World ParaVolley as the National Governing Body for the sport of volleyball including the disciplines of beach, indoor, sitting, snow and beach ParaVolley in the United States. With more than 425,000 registered members, USA Volleyball conducts national championship events, coaching and officials certification programs, and grassroots development across all disciplines in a lifetime sport in which all can participate. USA Volleyball’s teams have won an Olympic medal in every Olympic Games since 1984, five Paralympic medals since 2004 and numerous World Cup, World Championship and Continental Championship titles. USA Volleyball’s women’s teams are the reigning gold medalists in the Olympic indoor, beach and Paralympic events. The United States is the first country to have won a gold medal in each discipline at a single Summer Games. For more information on USA Volleyball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usavolleyball.org/" target="_blank">usavolleyball.org</a>. #PathtothePodium

Story by Pro Volleyball FederationCOLUMBUS, Ohio / FRISCO, Texas –&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation, the professional women’s volleyball league in the United States, has teamed up with USA Volleyball – the national governing body of the sport in the U.S. – to promote volleyball at its highest level.&nbsp;USA Volleyball will support Pro Volleyball Federation’s professional league in America, which launches in January. The partnership reinforces the League’s commitment to work with USA Volleyball clubs, athletes and regions while USAV supports Pro Volleyball Federation’s commitment to providing top professional opportunities to America’s greatest female volleyball players. &nbsp;“We are so proud to provide these world-class athletes within the USA Volleyball pipeline with a domestic opportunity to play professionally at the highest level in the United States while still being able to pursue their dreams of representing their country on the U.S. National Team,” touted Dave Whinham, co-founder of the Pro Volleyball Federation. “We have tremendous respect for the work being done by USA Volleyball and its 40 regions throughout the country, and we are excited to strengthen the entire volleyball pipeline in our nation.”&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation currently boasts 17 players from the United States who have spent time in the U.S. National Team gym. Overall, there are 35 domestic and international players in the League who have been part of their respective country’s Olympic or national team system.&nbsp;More than 135 athletes have signed contracts to play in the inaugural season of Pro Volleyball Federation. They will be led by a group of accomplished coaches who have combined for more than 2,500 career victories. &nbsp;“Pro Volleyball Federation has created a buzz not only in the United States, but throughout the world of volleyball,” said Jamie Davis, President and CEO of USA Volleyball. “We are thrilled to partner with Pro Volleyball Federation and see the League as a great platform where so many outstanding American players can continue their careers as professional athletes and US National Team members.”&nbsp;There is also no lack of Team USA representation within the ranks of Pro Volleyball Federation. In addition to the athletes, four-time Olympic medalist Kerri Walsh Jennings leads the ownership group of the San Diego Mojo. The Mojo feature three-time Olympian and two-time silver medalist Tayyiba Haneef-Park as head coach, while Team USA stars Logan Tom and Laurie Corbelli bring extensive national team experience to Pro Volleyball Federation’s executive staff.&nbsp;The Mojo is one of seven teams playing in the League’s first season, joining the Atlanta Vibe, Columbus Fury, Grand Rapids Rise, Omaha Supernovas, Orlando Valkyries, and Vegas Thrill. The second season in 2025 will welcome numerous additional squads, with Dallas, Indianapolis and Kansas City already announced as 2025 markets.&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation’s inaugural season begins on January 24 and runs through mid-May. Each city is supported by ownership groups who have invested in the future of the League. Team rosters will consist of 14 active members, each receiving a minimum salary of $60,000. Players on the championship team will also share a $1 million bonus.&nbsp;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.provolleyball.com/" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;ABOUT USA VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;Founded in 1928, USA Volleyball is a non-profit organization recognized by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and World ParaVolley as the National Governing Body for the sport of volleyball including the disciplines of beach, indoor, sitting, snow and beach ParaVolley in the United States. With more than 425,000 registered members, USA Volleyball conducts national championship events, coaching and officials certification programs, and grassroots development across all disciplines in a lifetime sport in which all can participate. USA Volleyball’s teams have won an Olympic medal in every Olympic Games since 1984, five Paralympic medals since 2004 and numerous World Cup, World Championship and Continental Championship titles. USA Volleyball’s women’s teams are the reigning gold medalists in the Olympic indoor, beach and Paralympic events. The United States is the first country to have won a gold medal in each discipline at a single Summer Games. For more information on USA Volleyball, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usavolleyball.org/" target="_blank">usavolleyball.org</a>. #PathtothePodium

Pro Volleyball Federation, USA Volleyball announce new alliance  

GRANT, NEB. - Day 1 of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament has flown by. We will have radio coverage of tonight's girls' and boys' first place games. Both games will feature Perkins County taking on Wallace.

The girls' first place game will tipoff first at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. Our Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin at 4:45pm MT/5:45pm CT with the boys to tip off 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls' game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or listen online <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

2:00pm MT/3:00pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 3rd Place Game Hyannis (H) vs South Platte (A)

3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 3rd Place Game Hyannis(H) vs South Platte (A)

5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

6:30pm MT/7:30pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Sandhills PostGRANT, NEB. - Day 1 of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament has flown by. We will have radio coverage of tonight's girls' and boys' first place games. Both games will feature Perkins County taking on Wallace.The girls' first place game will tipoff first at 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. Our Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin at 4:45pm MT/5:45pm CT with the boys to tip off 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls' game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or listen online <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;Today's Game Schedule:2:00pm MT/3:00pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 3rd Place Game Hyannis (H) vs South Platte (A)3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 3rd Place Game Hyannis(H) vs South Platte (A)5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT - Main Gym - Girls' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)6:30pm MT/7:30pm CT - Main Gym - Boys' 1st Place Game Perkins County (H) vs Wallace (A) - (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament, Day 2 radio coverage 

GRANT, NEB. - Perkins County High school is hosting the 2023 Perkins County Booster Club Holiday Basketball Tournament today and tomorrow. We will have radio coverage of tonight's boys and girls' game for Perkins County and Hyannis. Today's games will either be played in the New gym or Pritchett Gym. This year's participants are Perkins County, Wallace, South Loup and Hyannis.

&nbsp;Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Boys) - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A)(Girls) - Pritchett Gym - 5:00pm MT

Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Girls) - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A) (Boys) - Pritchett Gym - 6:30pm MT

Tonight's Perkins County boys and girl's games against Hyannis will be on Flatrock 100.7. Our Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin at 4:45pm MT with tip off set for 5:00pm MT. The girl's game is set to follow 20 minutes after the boy's game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;

Boys' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 2:00pm MT

Girls' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 3:30pm MT

Girls' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Boys' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)

Sandhills PostGRANT, NEB. - Perkins County High school is hosting the 2023 Perkins County Booster Club Holiday Basketball Tournament today and tomorrow. We will have radio coverage of tonight's boys and girls' game for Perkins County and Hyannis. Today's games will either be played in the New gym or Pritchett Gym. This year's participants are Perkins County, Wallace, South Loup and Hyannis.Todays Game Schedule:&nbsp;Perkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Boys) - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A)(Girls) - Pritchett Gym - 5:00pm MTPerkins County (H) vs Hyannis (A)(Girls) - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Wallace (H) vs South Platte (A) (Boys) - Pritchett Gym - 6:30pm MTTonight's Perkins County boys and girl's games against Hyannis will be on Flatrock 100.7. Our Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin at 4:45pm MT with tip off set for 5:00pm MT. The girl's game is set to follow 20 minutes after the boy's game. Join Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>&nbsp;Fridays Game Schedule:Boys' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 2:00pm MTGirls' 3rd Place Game - New Gym - 3:30pm MTGirls' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 5:00pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Boys' 1st Place Game - New Gym - 6:30pm MT (Radio Coverage, Flatrock 100.7)Girls Teams:Big Springs (4-2)Perkins County (3-3)Wallace (2-4)Hyannis (2-3)Boys Teams:Hyannis (7-0)South Platte (5-1)Perkins County (4-2)Wallace (3-3)

Radio Coverage of the 2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament, PC vs Hyannis tonight

The Nebraska Men's Gymnastics team was ranked No. 3 in the Big Ten preseason coaches poll announced on Wednesday.Michigan leads the Big Ten as the No. 1 ranked team in the division for the 2024 season as the defending Big Ten Champions. The Wolverines finished 7-1 in the conference for regular season standings in 2023.Behind the Wolverines follows Illinois in second position, Nebraska in third, and Penn State and Ohio State rounding out the top five, respectively.Nebraska is set to open the 2024 season at the Rocky Mountain Open on Saturday, Jan 20 at 6:00 pm CT in Colorado Springs, Colo. where they will compete against Air Force, Oklahoma, and GymACT's Rocky Mountain Pride.Huskers Sam Phillips and Taylor Christopulos each earned a spot on the Big Ten Players to Watch List. Reigning Big Ten Gymnast of the Year Christopulos was named to the list for a third consecutive season, following his intital nomination in 2022.2023-24 Big Ten Men's Gymnastics Preseason Poll1. &nbsp; &nbsp; Michigan2. &nbsp; &nbsp; Illinois3. &nbsp; &nbsp; Nebraska4. &nbsp; &nbsp; Penn State5. &nbsp; &nbsp; Ohio State2023-24 Gymnasts to WatchTate Costa, So., IllinoisBrandon Dang, Fr., IllinoisFred Richard, So., MichiganPaul Juda, Gr., MichiganTaylor Christopulos, Sr., NebraskaSam Phillips, Sr., NebraskaKameron Nelson, Sr., Ohio StateParker Thackston, So., Ohio StateJosh Karnes, Jr., Penn StateIan Raubal, So., Penn State&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska Men's Gymnastics team was ranked No. 3 in the Big Ten preseason coaches poll announced on Wednesday.Michigan leads the Big Ten as the No. 1 ranked team in the division for the 2024 season as the defending Big Ten Champions. The Wolverines finished 7-1 in the conference for regular season standings in 2023.Behind the Wolverines follows Illinois in second position, Nebraska in third, and Penn State and Ohio State rounding out the top five, respectively.Nebraska is set to open the 2024 season at the Rocky Mountain Open on Saturday, Jan 20 at 6:00 pm CT in Colorado Springs, Colo. where they will compete against Air Force, Oklahoma, and GymACT's Rocky Mountain Pride.Huskers Sam Phillips and Taylor Christopulos each earned a spot on the Big Ten Players to Watch List. Reigning Big Ten Gymnast of the Year Christopulos was named to the list for a third consecutive season, following his intital nomination in 2022.2023-24 Big Ten Men's Gymnastics Preseason Poll1. &nbsp; &nbsp; Michigan2. &nbsp; &nbsp; Illinois3. &nbsp; &nbsp; Nebraska4. &nbsp; &nbsp; Penn State5. &nbsp; &nbsp; Ohio State2023-24 Gymnasts to WatchTate Costa, So., IllinoisBrandon Dang, Fr., IllinoisFred Richard, So., MichiganPaul Juda, Gr., MichiganTaylor Christopulos, Sr., NebraskaSam Phillips, Sr., NebraskaKameron Nelson, Sr., Ohio StateParker Thackston, So., Ohio StateJosh Karnes, Jr., Penn StateIan Raubal, So., Penn State&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Gymnastics ranked No. 3 in Preseason Poll

Nebraska&nbsp;Head Coach Fred Hoiberg

On Rienk Mast’s injury

“Rienk had some swelling in his knee last week a couple days before the Kansas State game, and got a scan on it just to figure out the best treatment option for him, and they found a little loose piece of cartilage in there. The decision was made to play the Kansas State game. He could not do further damage on it, we just didn’t want that piece floating around and get into a spot where it caused some trouble down the line. We made a decision with the doctors and with Rienk, a decision that he was comfortable with to go in and take care of the problem. Surgery went very well and the doctor was really happy with how it went. He’s got very minimal swelling, he’s moving around really well. He actually walked on the treadmill today, a little bit faster than my treadmill workout that I did this afternoon, but overall hopefully we’ll get him back. We don’t have an exact time frame, I can’t give you an exact day that he’ll be back, but we’re hoping sometime in early January.”

On overcoming the absence of Rienk Mast

“It definitely changes things. You got guys playing different positions than they have been playing. Rienk obviously has been as good as anybody we have on the floor for us especially in those two wins against Michigan State and Kansas State. His absence was felt I thought early, they dominated the glass in the first half, they crushed us out there getting loose balls. At halftime we really challenged them, they just kind of had that blank stare on their face, and they were looking at the floor. I was getting after them to say, ‘guys you understand how good of a basketball team we are when we go out there and are the harder playing more together team’ and it wasn’t the same in the huddles with guys talking to each other and trying to lead out there. After those first couple possessions in the second half, they responded in a big way. They found a formula out there, but the effort, I think we outrebounded them 21-14 in the second half which obviously was a big key as opposed to what they did to us in the first. Then had a big run to get the lead and get that thing all the way up to 10 or 11. Found a way after 4 (Tyree Ihenacho) hit those shots there at the end of the game, but overall I knew this was a game that we had to play well. This is a very good team, especially with Ihenacho, who came out in his second game as a two-time transfer, we knew his talent. They should shoot it all over the place, they’re very physical and have size. We knew this was a good time that we’d have to play well, and we didn’t in the first half, but found a way to come out and play a really complete second half of basketball.”

On the play of Jamarques Lawrence and C.J. Wilcher

“It was great to see Jamarques knock down some shots there at the end of the game and get us organized. I was really proud to see C.J. going out there after the first half and keep us in striking distance and then had that stretch in the second half where we kind of went to him on five, six, seven straight possessions and it paid off, not only with the shot but getting him to the rim. I thought he had patience in there to get some shots at the basket but CJ coming off and he’s been shooting like that in practice and just a matter of time before he had a game like this where he was knocking down shot. On Jamarques, he’s growing and he’s playing a position to his credit that he’s never really played before and he’s learning on the fly so big win for our team. We’ll have a lot of things we can learn from this game but it’s always better to learn from a win.”&nbsp;

On the absence of Rienk Mast

“It’s definitely on the boards for sure. Rienk is just a sound guy, even if his shot isn’t going. If he’s not necessarily scoring the ball he’s going to make plays for other guys. He’s going to get other guys involved. He’s just a great screener too so he gets guys open, so we definitely missed his presence today.”

On overcoming Rienk’s absence

“I think it’s just next man up mentality. It’s the game of basketball, people get hurt, people may have rough nights. Everybody is gonna get an opportunity at some point and time, you just have to be ready to take advantage of those opportunities when they present themselves.”&nbsp;

On Josiah Allick stepping up tonight&nbsp;

“That’s Jo. Jo has been doing that all year, playing hard, super hard-nosed guy. He just came back from twisting his ankle so he’s getting his feet back under him, and like you said he stepped up today in a big way.”

Sophomore Guard Jamarques Lawrence

On changing back to a scorers’ mentality late in the game

“That’s what I’m trying to do with this new role, it’s just day-by-day with me, and I&nbsp;just tell myself to be more aggressive. I can make plays out of it too. I just gotta be more aggressive.”

On how the team feels about where they’re at going into the break

“We’re in a pretty solid place right now, we’re happy. I think we just get a lot better, focusing on our principles, I think we can get better defensively with our principles and stuff like that.”

North Dakota Head Coach Paul Sather:&nbsp;

Opening Statement&nbsp;

“I think that second half, they made that run. I just felt you know, in the confidence aspect we stopped kind of the movement and the pace offensively and our offense is now affecting us. Defensively and rebounding that's kind of what it felt like. Right now we're sad because we're not making the offense. It is what it was in the first and how we're coming down and we're not rebounding the way we should've we don't play with that same energy and you know. I told our guys this that I'm not sitting here satisfied that we were close to beating Nebraska. I mean, we gave it to them. We let them, we let them take it from us. A lot of it dealt with just that they were tougher. They got some second shots where they knew they got points off turnovers and those are areas in that second half where they really built an advantage on us. We had a good one in the first half in those areas, but they really came back and built an advantage in those areas.”

On the competitive feeling in the locker room

“Yeah, they need to be. If they don't feel that way, then there's something wrong and I said man, if you don't feel that way then take an extended break. I'm not that way because I thought our guys aren't that way, like they feel that way. I don't worry about them feeling that way. But this is what I truly believe, and I think the guys believe that too. But if you don't, I mean just take an extended break. I mean every day you should be anxious and excited about getting back. Enjoy being home, enjoy Christmas, but if you're not anxious and excited about getting back knowing what we can become then there's a problem. Let's be excited about this team or what we can become because right now there's a lot of growth that we're gonna continue to make.”

<ul>
 <li>With the win, Nebraska improved to&nbsp;10-2&nbsp;on the season, matching the program’s best 12-game start since 2018-19 </li><li>Nebraska put six players in double figures tonight, the first time Nebraska has done that since also putting six players in double figures against Minnesota on Feb. 25, 2022.</li><li>Nebraska overcame a 14-point second-half deficit, NU’s largest comeback since overcoming a 17-point deficit against Wisconsin on Feb. 11, 2023. Prior to tonight, NU’s largest comeback of the season was seven points against Michigan State.</li><li>Juwan Gary posted his second straight double-double and third of the year with 12 points and 12 rebounds.</li><li>C.J. Wilcher led Nebraska with a season-high 16 points, including 4-of-6 from 3-point range. His previous season high was 13 on two other occasions, most recently against Rider on Nov. 13.</li><li>Wilcher’s effort was the 10th&nbsp;double-figure effort from NU’s bench in 12 games and tonight marked the fourth time this season NU’s leading scorer came off the bench</li><li>Wilcher also hit a season-high four 3-pointers in the win, as his previous season best was also three against Rider</li><li>Nebraska is now 21-4 under Hoiberg when scoring at least 80 points, including 16-1 over the last three seasons.</li><li>Nebraska hit 11 3-pointers on the night, the sixth time this year NU has had double-digit 3-pointers.NU is 6-0 in those contests.</li><li>North Dakota outrebounded Nebraska 42-38 and is just the third team to outrebound Nebraska this season.</li>
 </ul>Nebraska&nbsp;Head Coach Fred HoibergOn Rienk Mast’s injury“Rienk had some swelling in his knee last week a couple days before the Kansas State game, and got a scan on it just to figure out the best treatment option for him, and they found a little loose piece of cartilage in there. The decision was made to play the Kansas State game. He could not do further damage on it, we just didn’t want that piece floating around and get into a spot where it caused some trouble down the line. We made a decision with the doctors and with Rienk, a decision that he was comfortable with to go in and take care of the problem. Surgery went very well and the doctor was really happy with how it went. He’s got very minimal swelling, he’s moving around really well. He actually walked on the treadmill today, a little bit faster than my treadmill workout that I did this afternoon, but overall hopefully we’ll get him back. We don’t have an exact time frame, I can’t give you an exact day that he’ll be back, but we’re hoping sometime in early January.”On overcoming the absence of Rienk Mast“It definitely changes things. You got guys playing different positions than they have been playing. Rienk obviously has been as good as anybody we have on the floor for us especially in those two wins against Michigan State and Kansas State. His absence was felt I thought early, they dominated the glass in the first half, they crushed us out there getting loose balls. At halftime we really challenged them, they just kind of had that blank stare on their face, and they were looking at the floor. I was getting after them to say, ‘guys you understand how good of a basketball team we are when we go out there and are the harder playing more together team’ and it wasn’t the same in the huddles with guys talking to each other and trying to lead out there. After those first couple possessions in the second half, they responded in a big way. They found a formula out there, but the effort, I think we outrebounded them 21-14 in the second half which obviously was a big key as opposed to what they did to us in the first. Then had a big run to get the lead and get that thing all the way up to 10 or 11. Found a way after 4 (Tyree Ihenacho) hit those shots there at the end of the game, but overall I knew this was a game that we had to play well. This is a very good team, especially with Ihenacho, who came out in his second game as a two-time transfer, we knew his talent. They should shoot it all over the place, they’re very physical and have size. We knew this was a good time that we’d have to play well, and we didn’t in the first half, but found a way to come out and play a really complete second half of basketball.”On the play of Jamarques Lawrence and C.J. Wilcher“It was great to see Jamarques knock down some shots there at the end of the game and get us organized. I was really proud to see C.J. going out there after the first half and keep us in striking distance and then had that stretch in the second half where we kind of went to him on five, six, seven straight possessions and it paid off, not only with the shot but getting him to the rim. I thought he had patience in there to get some shots at the basket but CJ coming off and he’s been shooting like that in practice and just a matter of time before he had a game like this where he was knocking down shot. On Jamarques, he’s growing and he’s playing a position to his credit that he’s never really played before and he’s learning on the fly so big win for our team. We’ll have a lot of things we can learn from this game but it’s always better to learn from a win.”&nbsp;Junior Guard C.J. WilcherOn the absence of Rienk Mast“It’s definitely on the boards for sure. Rienk is just a sound guy, even if his shot isn’t going. If he’s not necessarily scoring the ball he’s going to make plays for other guys. He’s going to get other guys involved. He’s just a great screener too so he gets guys open, so we definitely missed his presence today.”On overcoming Rienk’s absence“I think it’s just next man up mentality. It’s the game of basketball, people get hurt, people may have rough nights. Everybody is gonna get an opportunity at some point and time, you just have to be ready to take advantage of those opportunities when they present themselves.”&nbsp;On Josiah Allick stepping up tonight&nbsp;“That’s Jo. Jo has been doing that all year, playing hard, super hard-nosed guy. He just came back from twisting his ankle so he’s getting his feet back under him, and like you said he stepped up today in a big way.”Sophomore Guard Jamarques LawrenceOn changing back to a scorers’ mentality late in the game“That’s what I’m trying to do with this new role, it’s just day-by-day with me, and I&nbsp;just tell myself to be more aggressive. I can make plays out of it too. I just gotta be more aggressive.”On how the team feels about where they’re at going into the break“We’re in a pretty solid place right now, we’re happy. I think we just get a lot better, focusing on our principles, I think we can get better defensively with our principles and stuff like that.”North Dakota Head Coach Paul Sather:&nbsp;Opening Statement&nbsp;“I think that second half, they made that run. I just felt you know, in the confidence aspect we stopped kind of the movement and the pace offensively and our offense is now affecting us. Defensively and rebounding that's kind of what it felt like. Right now we're sad because we're not making the offense. It is what it was in the first and how we're coming down and we're not rebounding the way we should've we don't play with that same energy and you know. I told our guys this that I'm not sitting here satisfied that we were close to beating Nebraska. I mean, we gave it to them. We let them, we let them take it from us. A lot of it dealt with just that they were tougher. They got some second shots where they knew they got points off turnovers and those are areas in that second half where they really built an advantage on us. We had a good one in the first half in those areas, but they really came back and built an advantage in those areas.”On the competitive feeling in the locker room“Yeah, they need to be. If they don't feel that way, then there's something wrong and I said man, if you don't feel that way then take an extended break. I'm not that way because I thought our guys aren't that way, like they feel that way. I don't worry about them feeling that way. But this is what I truly believe, and I think the guys believe that too. But if you don't, I mean just take an extended break. I mean every day you should be anxious and excited about getting back. Enjoy being home, enjoy Christmas, but if you're not anxious and excited about getting back knowing what we can become then there's a problem. Let's be excited about this team or what we can become because right now there's a lot of growth that we're gonna continue to make.”

Nebraska game notes versus North Dakota

Opening Statement:&nbsp;“I had just a couple of people to thank, so if you’ll bear with me, I think it’s very important. Today, for me at least, is always a day of gratitude. It starts with all of the young men who have made the decision to sign with us, both the guys who have signed scholarships and the guys who are coming as walk-ons. Julie and I, as two parents, have a son finishing his senior year in Charlotte, who has decided to come to Nebraska and be a freshman next year. This signing class for us probably means more than it ever has. We understand that when you’re going through this process, knowing that they’re in a safe place with good people, it matters so much. Very grateful to the parents, guardians, highschool coaches, mentors, everyone who have led these young men to these decisions. And I’m grateful for all the players, that they’ve entrusted their future to us. I believe they’ve all come here for the right reasons, and I’m excited to be a part of their future. I’m grateful to our staff. Obviously, you guys see the 10 full-time coaches that go on the road, but we have an army of people who evaluate and help make this process run. Everything from making sure business expenses get done to getting flights on time to identifying the best players. When people come to see us, I think they walk away feeling like there’s a cohesive vision, that there’s sort of a family feel here, and that’s because we all do believe in the same things. So I’m very grateful to our coaches and our staff, and especially their families. This is hard, there’s a lot of time that’s put into this, and our coaches and staff, their families do a lot. Very grateful to Trev (Alberts) and our entire administration. You can’t recruit at this level without an investment and the belief that it’s going to pay off. Very grateful for the way they’ve laid this out for us, where we can be successful. A lot of people in Lincoln, lots of vendors, lots of hotels, they go out of their way to make sure that we have an unbelievable process. I think one of the crown jewels, one of the key recruiters for us is the city of Lincoln. I think when people come here they’re blown away. We could put them at the Kindler Hotel, or show them the Scarlet Hotel, we can take them to eat at J.T.K, or Casa Bovina, or all of the other places we utilize. To me it makes coming to Nebraska that much more real, so I’m grateful. Our fans. As we all know, our fanbase is second to none. It’s something that I think our families feel. It’s hard to send your kid from Florida to Nebraska. It’s hard to send your kid from all across the country. One of the major questions I get is ‘Coach, how is my son going to be treated here?’ When people come on visits and when they get to the airport, or when they walk into a game, they feel so welcome. They feel so welcome for the right reasons. It makes it that much easier to send their kids here, and I’m unbelievably, unbelievably grateful. I want to thank a lot of former players. Too many to name, but just the way that they’ve reached out and sent name in. I’m just really proud of the fact that there’s six players who are legacies. Really proud of the fact that we have one player whose brother is on the team. One player in Eric Ingwerson whose uncle played here, and the fact that Nebraska means that much to them, and that they believe in what we’re doing, that they want to send their sons here. I want to thank Coach Osborne. One of our best recruiters. Put someone in a room with Coach Osborne and give me the credit, I’ll take that all day, but it’s really Coach (Osborne). I want to thank Governor (Jim) Pillen. It’s not very often that the Governor is willing to, not recruit, but build relationships, and tell people what life is really like here, so very grateful to him. Some specific former players that have really gone out of their way; Abdul Mohammad has really laid the groundwork for us as we want to recruit this state. Really proud of the fact that we have eight scholarship kids from Nebraska for the second year in a row. Want to thank Vershan Jackson and Steve Warren, Damon Benning, and others. Without them, I wouldn’t have some of the names that I’ve got, and I’m really grateful for that. I want to thank Tommie Frazier and Eric Crouch. Being willing to come on campus and meet with players. Jay Foreman, Doak Ostergard, those guys have gone way out of their way. Many others have done a lot but I want to make sure I thank them. And then finally, I think having this type of signing class is indicative of what’s happening in our athletic department. When your women’s soccer team is Big Ten champs, you see what the basketball team is doing, it might not seem like a lot, but when you’re trying to find things to talk about with guys, you can say ‘Hey, did you see us beat Michigan State?’, or taking Dylan Raiola and going to watch Jaz (Shelley) score 25 on Sunday. Those things matter. On a personal note, I want to thank Coach Cook and our women's volleyball team. What they did this year was awesome, and for Coach Cook to do that with such a young team, I know it’s brought my family and me closer. I had Baker Mayfield call me from Tampa, and he was like ‘Hey, I’m going to the game on Thursday, bro’. There’s people from all across the country talking about our women’s volleyball team, and to do it so young. I loved what Harper (Murray) said after the game. We took the staff yesterday to see Day By Day. I wasn’t there, Trev (Alberts) can maybe talk about it more than I can, but I don’t know that if ‘94 and ‘95 don’t happen if ‘92 and ‘93 doesn’t. I don’t know that ‘97 doesn’t happen if it’s not for ‘96.I just love being a part of this level of excellence in so many areas of our athletic department. I think it’s part of why you look across the country and people are getting so excited about Nebraska football. Finally, I have to thank 1890. They have backed these athletes, they have backed these players. For us to sit here, I know you’re going to ask me about the transfer portal. We have our own portal. We got Bryce Benhart out of that portal. We got Ben Scott out of that portal. Giff (Isaac Gifford) deciding to come back, even though he’s probably going to get drafted. Ty Robinson, passing on the chance to get drafted to come back. That’s unbelievable. John Bullock coming back. I’m just very grateful for the experience these guys are having, whether it’s Dennis (LeBlanc) or Keith Zimmer in life skills. Also, the way our student athletes have been supported by the Peed family (Tom and Shawn Peed), by Matt Davison, by all the people who have donated. Thank you so much, because this is the modern world of athletics. We are being supported by an organization that’s run the right way and doing things the right way. That comes across to us each and every time we talk to a student-athlete. And finally, our players. Our players are our best recruiters. When they tell recruits what it’s like here, recruits listen. The feedback has been excellent. I think you guys have seen that by the lack of guys going into the transfer portal. People are excited about being part of this program, and that’s why we’ve been able to sign so many guys. I know that was long, but I am extremely grateful for them. I know you guys have a lot of questions, so I’m happy to answer them.”

On the path of Dylan Raiola and possible transfer QBs:&nbsp;“I’m always going to explore everything, but at the end of the day, as I said to you guys, I was never really interested in one-year quarterbacks. I believe in doing due diligence. I don’t believe in just making statements. I always look at those, but it’s really important to me that Chubba (Purdy) and Heinrich (Haarberg) have earned the chance to go compete in the spring without someone coming in that’s a year ahead of them. That was first and foremost. We looked at some things, but didn’t make any offers to anybody. I just wanted to stay true to that message that we had from the end of the year. Daniel Kaelin has been loyal to us from the very beginning. We believe in Daniel, we believe in his skill set, his processing, how quickly he sees it. I love the fact that even this past weekend, he had an opportunity. He just wants to compete and be a Husker. As I sat there and watched that show yesterday and they talked about Tommie Frazier and Brook Berringer, just ‘hey, I want to be here and I want to compete.’ I appreciate that about him. Dylan called last Sunday and said, ‘hey, Coach, my heart is telling me to come to Nebraska. Can I come take another look?’ I challenged him, like ‘hey, make sure you’re serious about this. I don’t want this to be something that isn’t right for you,’ and he said ‘my life has greater purpose than just being the top recruit. I know what Nebraska means to my family, I know what it’s meant to me and I’d like to come there.’ I think in the end, to have a player of Dylan’s caliber, not of his recruiting, but of his caliber. His arm talent, his ability to see the field, but probably more than anything, his work ethic and how much he cares about the game. We obviously took that. I feel great about our quarterback room, we have four players that we believe in. With the young players, with the two freshmen, I think it’s really important that they follow the right trajectory. It’s not about coming in and scripting success. It’s about teaching them to play quarterback the way we want our quarterbacks to play. That’s why I didn’t want a quick fix. I want to build this thing with guys who have been in the program, who learn our way of thinking, our way of seeing the field, our way of viewing defenses, our way of calling protections, our way of training. I think as we move forward, everything will be earned and nothing will be given. It will be great competition. It’ll be great learning and great development. We have some pretty special players in that room.”

On the QB coaching staff: “Yeah, I'm not talking about that today. With all that diversity, today is all about the recruits. When I'm back, if there's anything to talk about it I will but today is about them.”&nbsp;

On how Dylan Raiola changes what the offense is able to do:&nbsp;“You know I think that’s a great question because we would love to be a very diverse offense like the 49ers but somewhat translated to college. When you get players like Carter (Nelson), the ability to stretch the field and throw the ball, we want accuracy, we want guys who are going to protect the football. We love guys who can move, but also the ability to push the ball down the field and throw the ball 55-60 yards down the field at times and be accurate is something that helps those types of offenses. I think after spending a year in the Big Ten and in the weather that we play in, having big quarterbacks with big hands who can spin the ball is vital, and so I think Dylan certainly gives us that. Seeing the throws he was throwing this year in high school, a lot of the same throws that were gonna ask him to throw, he was able to throw them at a really high level. I had the chance to see him throw live last year. He’s got so much arm talent and not many people have that, but again this game comes down to way more than just arm talent. To us, it’s just about how you teach things with process so that he can play fast and free. It’s the same thing we’ll do with Daniel (Kaelin) and continue to do with Heinrich (Haarberg) and Chubba (Purdy).”

On Dylan Raiola ‘tangible wise’: “Well, you know it’s hard for me to sit here and talk very much about a lot of these guys when I’ve met them three or four times. So a lot of it is second hand, what I will say is anytime in my past that I’ve had a chance to take a quarterback or a player whose dad played, usually they’ve grown up in a house where dad’s been harder on them than they have. When I was in the NFL we drafted Jaycee Horn. Talking about a first round pick, his dad Joe Horn was one of the great players to play the game. He probably grew up after every game being told, ‘yeah you did that great, but.’ So, I think that Dylan probably has a lot of intangibles that I haven’t met yet. What I’ve loved about Dylan is he loves football, he loves to talk football, he’s unbelievably kind. You watch him at the basketball game the other day, he’s taking pictures with kids, and not in a selfish way, but in a caring way. It’s the same intangibles I see with a lot of the guys we have. We want to recruit really good people who love football. This is not a ‘what’s in it for me’ type place. You’ve got to come here wanting to be great at football, wanting to be great in the community and wanting to be great in school. Your parents have to want that, you have to want that. I see all that from Dylan. To me it’s the beginning of a journey, this is not the end, this is the very very beginning and that’s my message to all the players. This is not a culmination, this is the start of something, so just take it day by day.”

On managing the quarterback position last week: “Yeah, I think we tried to be as honest as possible. As things come you’re talking in real time. I’m never going to apologize for bringing in good players. I’m never going to apologize for bringing in good competition. We live in a day in age where everyone is trying to find the best situation. I think you should try to find the place where you can get developed the best because no one knows how things are going to work out. So, as long as I’m not taking away your scholarship, I’m not going to apologize to you if I’m bringing someone else in. And I want players who want that, like, ‘I want to be the best, so I have to probably play with the best and compete against the best.’ That’s why I respect Daniel (Kaelin) so much for the decision he made. Obviously the thing with Dylan happened, and it was really honest and transparent. In terms of transfer players and things like that, sometimes you have to have difficult conversations. Sometimes the narrative out there is different than what is actually happening, and that can be difficult. None of these young men ran from competition, no one said, ‘I don’t want to go there.’ Some people were asking me that, and I felt bad about it. Really, at the end of the day, we made a decision, we’re going to go young, we’re going to go with the guys we have and the two freshmen, and build. I don’t mind disappointing people, I hate it, but I don’t want anyone ever to say I lied to you. I try to be honest and say ‘here’s how we see it.’ Sometimes people disagree with it. It’s hard at Quarterback because only one can play. There’s going to be a lot of quarterbacks that went in the portal that don’t find places to go. I always say, ‘go somewhere where you’re being developed. Go somewhere where you’re growing as a quarterback, growing as a person.’ Eventually, things happen, you’ll have your chance to get on the field, and when you get on the field, crush it. We played three quarterbacks this year. Odds would say that most teams would probably play one or two moving forward.”

On if he stayed connected with Dylan Raiola: “Once Dylan committed to Georgia, I didn’t recruit him anymore. I still talked to him, they came to the Michigan game, hugged him, ‘good to see you, how’s things going?’ I don’t really recruit guys after they commit somewhere very often. I won’t say not always, but I think in that decision, it was like go ahead, I appreciate it. Obviously he has a unique perspective in that his uncle is on staff. So, in recruiting everyone is the same way everyday. This year we started off 0-2, you got to see us what we were like at 0-2, then we won three in a row – ‘what are they like after they won three in a row.’ Kind of yoyo the season. Probably found out a little bit more about us from his uncle, ‘what are they like when things are going good, when things aren’t going well.’ Again that’s why I point to the guys that want to come back and play their sixth year, doesn’t happen everywhere. But yeah, in terms of the relationship, he’d shoot me a text, ‘hey, good win coach,’ or something like that. But I’m really respectful of Georgia and Coach Smart’s program. To me, this wasn’t about Georgia, this was about a kid who grew up a Husker fan that his heart wanted to come back and be a Husker.”&nbsp;On Grant Brix:“When I first got here, Donovan (Raiola) told me ‘hey, there’s this guy that came to our camp last year, he’s really special.’ I love, besides the person and the person that he is and the family, I love his versatility. I’ve seen him wrestle, I’ve seen him play in the band, I’ve seen him play football. He can do a little bit of everything. I love his hat speed. There’s a lot of big offensive lineman, there’s not many that are as explosive and athletic as Grant is. I’ve really enjoyed my relationship with him and his family. Again, it’s about an hour and fifteen, an hour and twenty from his house to here. There’s a lot of really great players in this area. The ability to have him want to come here and join us, despite all the offers that he had, was big for us. Again, we want to grow the offensive line the same way. We want to grow it the hard way – through recruiting, through development. He has a lot of talent that, if developed properly, we think could be an awesome player.”

On competing for the quarterback starting spot: “Everybody does, yeah. We’re a team that started multiple non-scholarship players last year. Competition is king. Nothing is handed to anybody. Nothing is handed to anybody.”

On his approach with the transfer portal: “I think because as we retained our guys and guys came back, that affected that. If Bryce Benhart and Ben Scott, two honorable-mention All-Big Ten players, went in the portal right now, they would be getting top everything. People would be fighting for them. So, when they wanted to come back, it alleviated some of the ‘hey, let’s go find an older player.’ Obviously, we visited one or two guys. The portal is still open so things could change, but Blye (Hill) was a unique deal to us. We really saw that 6’3” corner that can run. His dad is an NFL player, mom is a great athlete. We think he has years to develop in our system and can be a really good player. We’ll recruit a couple more guys for sure, but a lot of it is just our numbers. We’ve recruited a lot of high school kids the last two years. That was important to me, to have a strong base of high school players, not knowing how many we would lose. Well, we really haven’t lost many guys. This will be a smaller class this year, this next high school recruiting class. Again, I’m not against the portal at all. When everyone comes here, I want them coming here for the right reasons and to fill a role and have a vision. We have a vision for Blye. We might have one for one or two other ones as we move forward.”

On recruiting in Miami: “I think, obviously, Coop (Evan Cooper) is the one that goes down. Evan is an excellent recruiter and he’s from Miami. People know him. Phil Simpson – Phil played for me 100 years ago and was a really successful high school coach in Miami, so as we go down into Dade county, their experience here speaks volumes to people. When they speak, people listen and the guys on our team, when they come up and see Dwight Bootle or are talking to those guys and they’re having a good experience – those guys that flipped today, they came in last weekend and it was 26 degrees. There’s no tricks, there’s no gimmicks. I said ‘hey, walk around. This is what it feels like.’ They recognize real and they recognize what’s transparent and they’re coming for the right reasons. That was a big day for us today, to get a player of Willis McGahee’s talent and ability level and the way his brain works and an unbelievable family. To get Amare (Sanders), to get Larry (Tarver), to have Vincent (Shavers) just kind of flip over now, those things are all really big things for us.”&nbsp;

On recruiting in-state: “People have been unbelievable since the day we got here. We go to a clinic, people are there. I think the high school football here is really, really strong. You think about it, we go on national shows and they’re like ‘well, you signed eight guys.’ Notre Dame signed a player out of here, Illinois signed a player out of here, so it’s not like we got every one. There’s 10, 11, 12 Division I players here. What I would say was really special about us this year was, because of our camps, we have a lot of guys that we think are scholarship-worthy players that came in as non-scholarship players. They turned down Division I offers to come here. I think the high school coaches have been great. Hopefully our camps will continue to catch on. A lot of players thought you had to be invited to camp. No, we want everybody. I want, by the time you’re a senior, for you to come to my camps since you were in sixth grade. You know me and I know you. This has been your dream. That’s kind of my goal. As we go around the state, you brought up Ainsworth. I’ve been there three times. We had the time of our lives on Saturday in Ainsworth, just unbelievable people. We went to the high school football game, the playoff game a month ago. Unbelievable people. It’s when you go to those towns and you meet those people and those little kids come up to you and you’re not sure what they’re going to say to you – a kid walks up and says ‘I’m glad you ran a fake punt for once.’ I say ‘thanks, bro.’ You just realize – I say this a lot – we have such a responsibility to produce a winner because people are really counting on it. Going back into those towns and those people reciprocating the feelling and welcoming us, is awesome and it makes recruiting in Nebraska a lot of fun.”

On Carter Nelson:&nbsp;“When I talk about that, kind of that model that San Francisco type model, the college version of that. Guys like Carter (Nelson) are imperative, unique, position-less players. You go watch him play, he’s playing quarterback. He’s playing tailback. He’s a wideout, He’s playing tight end. I told him we’re going to hand him the ball like Walter Peyton on fourth and one and let him dive over the top. I said that’s our goal for him, a position-less player and we signed Jacory Barney Jr.. Jacory plays wideout and then all of a sudden he’s playing quarterback for his team. You have a bunch of guys that can do things with the ball and watch how the offense comes alive. We’re kind of a position-less defense, we’d like to be a position-less offense. I think Carter has all the talent in the world and I think it’s really cool that someone from Nebraska can go anywhere in the country. He could’ve flipped anywhere and they would’ve taken him, and he wants to come here. I think it sends a great message.”&nbsp;