Story by NPPC Athletic Communications

Charlotte, N.C. – The National Junior College Athletic Association announced that longtime North Platte Community College men's basketball Head Coach Kevin O'Connor has been selected to be inducted into the NJCAA Men's Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

"It is very humbling to receive this recognition by the NJCAA Men's Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame," said O'Connor. "Though this award is given to an individual, it could never have been accomplished without the dedication and hard work of many assistant coaches and players who I had the privilege to work with over the years."

O'Connor was a fixture on the sideline for the black and gold for 39 years, owning a 744-439 overall record during his tenure. The winningest coach in Region IX men's basketball history guided North Platte to two NJCAA National Tournament appearances and 22 Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference titles.

During his prestigious career, O'Connor was named Region IX Coach of the Year four times, while also earning NCCAC Coach of the Year honors over 20 times and Omaha World Herald's Male College Coach of the Year in 2013.

"I owe a great deal of gratitude to Steve Aggers, who was my college coach, and took a chance on hiring me to be an assistant straight out of Kearney State College at the College of Great Falls in 1980," said O'Connor. "The knowledge and experience I gained working for him became the foundation for what we built here."

O'Connor is thankful for the community of North Platte and the college for the many years of support. He stated that this honor would not be meaningful without the support of his wife Cindy and son Sean.

O'Connor will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Paul Cisek (Brookdale Community College) and Ed Janka during the NJCAA Hall of Fame Award Dinner in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 17.

Story by NPPC Athletic CommunicationsCharlotte, N.C. – The National Junior College Athletic Association announced that longtime North Platte Community College men's basketball Head Coach Kevin O'Connor has been selected to be inducted into the NJCAA Men's Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame."It is very humbling to receive this recognition by the NJCAA Men's Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame," said O'Connor. "Though this award is given to an individual, it could never have been accomplished without the dedication and hard work of many assistant coaches and players who I had the privilege to work with over the years."O'Connor was a fixture on the sideline for the black and gold for 39 years, owning a 744-439 overall record during his tenure. The winningest coach in Region IX men's basketball history guided North Platte to two NJCAA National Tournament appearances and 22 Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference titles.During his prestigious career, O'Connor was named Region IX Coach of the Year four times, while also earning NCCAC Coach of the Year honors over 20 times and Omaha World Herald's Male College Coach of the Year in 2013."I owe a great deal of gratitude to Steve Aggers, who was my college coach, and took a chance on hiring me to be an assistant straight out of Kearney State College at the College of Great Falls in 1980," said O'Connor. "The knowledge and experience I gained working for him became the foundation for what we built here."O'Connor is thankful for the community of North Platte and the college for the many years of support. He stated that this honor would not be meaningful without the support of his wife Cindy and son Sean.O'Connor will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside Paul Cisek (Brookdale Community College) and Ed Janka during the NJCAA Hall of Fame Award Dinner in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 17.

Breaking News: Longtime NPCC basketball coach to be inducted into Hall of Fame

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Nebraska women’s gymnastics team is set to compete in the second round of the NCAA Championships on Thursday, April 4, at the Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, Ark. The Huskers will compete in Session I, which starts at 1 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed on ESPN+. NU will face off against No. 7 Kentucky, No. 12 Arkansas and No. 24 Arizona.

The top two teams from each of the two sessions taking place on Thursday will advance to the NCAA Regional Final, which will be on Saturday, April 6 at 5 p.m. (CT). Session II features No. 2 LSU, No. 15 Minnesota, Oregon State and the winner of a first-round matchup between Boise St. and BYU.

The Big Red kicked off its postseason stand at the Big Ten Championships and placed seventh with a score of 196.250.&nbsp;

Emma Spence, Csenge Bácskay, Martina Comin and Sophia McClelland were named to the Big Ten Conference Championship teams, as they tied for or outright won first place in their respective events in the first session. Spence tied for fifth in the all-around through both sessions with a 39.450. She also tied for third on bars (9.900), while Bácskay tied for third on vault (9.900).&nbsp;

Michigan State finished in first with a score of 197.600.

Session I of the Arkansas Regional will include Nebraska, along with No. 7 Kentucky, No. 12 Arkansas and No. 24 Arizona.

The No. 7 Wildcats are 11-4 on the season with a 4-3 mark in conference competition. They own an NQS of 197.810, including a high score of 198.100. Most recently, they finished in third at the SEC Championships with a 197.600.

The Razorbacks have an NQS of 197.445 and a high score of 198.100. They are 10-11-1 overall (4-2-1 SEC). The Huskers have already faced Arkansas, and UA came out with the 198.100-197.375 victory.

Arizona is 7-10 on the season and 2-5 in conference competition. They earned a season-high of 197.000 on Jan. 27 and own an NQS of 196.885. The Wildcats were in NU’s session at the Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad on Jan. 12, and took first with a 196.475.

Fans can follow the Huskers on Facebook at HuskerWGym, Twitter at HuskerWGym or Instagram at huskerwgym for live updates during the meet. The meet will also be streamed live on ESPN+.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska women’s gymnastics team is set to compete in the second round of the NCAA Championships on Thursday, April 4, at the Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, Ark. The Huskers will compete in Session I, which starts at 1 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed on ESPN+. NU will face off against No. 7 Kentucky, No. 12 Arkansas and No. 24 Arizona.The top two teams from each of the two sessions taking place on Thursday will advance to the NCAA Regional Final, which will be on Saturday, April 6 at 5 p.m. (CT). Session II features No. 2 LSU, No. 15 Minnesota, Oregon State and the winner of a first-round matchup between Boise St. and BYU.Last Time OutThe Big Red kicked off its postseason stand at the Big Ten Championships and placed seventh with a score of 196.250.&nbsp;Emma Spence, Csenge Bácskay, Martina Comin and Sophia McClelland were named to the Big Ten Conference Championship teams, as they tied for or outright won first place in their respective events in the first session. Spence tied for fifth in the all-around through both sessions with a 39.450. She also tied for third on bars (9.900), while Bácskay tied for third on vault (9.900).&nbsp;Michigan State finished in first with a score of 197.600.Scouting the CompetitionSession I of the Arkansas Regional will include Nebraska, along with No. 7 Kentucky, No. 12 Arkansas and No. 24 Arizona.The No. 7 Wildcats are 11-4 on the season with a 4-3 mark in conference competition. They own an NQS of 197.810, including a high score of 198.100. Most recently, they finished in third at the SEC Championships with a 197.600.The Razorbacks have an NQS of 197.445 and a high score of 198.100. They are 10-11-1 overall (4-2-1 SEC). The Huskers have already faced Arkansas, and UA came out with the 198.100-197.375 victory.Arizona is 7-10 on the season and 2-5 in conference competition. They earned a season-high of 197.000 on Jan. 27 and own an NQS of 196.885. The Wildcats were in NU’s session at the Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad on Jan. 12, and took first with a 196.475.Follow the HuskersFans can follow the Huskers on Facebook at HuskerWGym, Twitter at HuskerWGym or Instagram at huskerwgym for live updates during the meet. The meet will also be streamed live on ESPN+.

Huskers look to NCAA Championships

&nbsp; CHADRON –&nbsp;An accomplished administrator with more than two decades of athletic experience and a former vice president for the Denver Broncos, Dr. China Jude, has been named as Chadron State College's interim athletic director President Ron K. Patterson announced Tuesday.

Jude, who begins April 8, will lead and supervise the CSC athletic department as the college searches for its permanent athletic director. Ted Tewahade, who was serving in the interim athletic director role, will return to his position as associate athletic director.

"I'm excited that Dr. Jude will be joining Chadron State College because she's a great leader," Patterson said. "Dr. Jude has a proven track record of success, demonstrates inclusivity, and builds engagement, and she will provide strategic thinking and direction to our athletic program. I'm eager to see what she will be able to accomplish. I also want to commend Ted Tewahade on the excellent leadership he demonstrated while supervising the athletic program in a temporary role."

Jude is the CEO and founder of Auggie Oliver, LLC, a consulting firm that works to strengthen organizational demographics, as well as increasing engagement and culture. Jude's clients include several universities, professional athletic organizations, and collegiate athletic conferences.

"I really am excited for the opportunity to re-enter the college space," Jude said. "Having the opportunity to connect with President Patterson and learning about his vision for the college, as well as learning more about the wonderful people at the institution and the great things that are being done made me want to be a part of CSC. There's a great team at Chadron State and it is a great opportunity."

Prior to consulting, Jude was the inaugural Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with the Denver Broncos from 2021-23. During her time with the Broncos, Jude collaborated with a variety of departments that emphasized cross-functional capabilities. She also helped launch events geared toward diversity, equity, and inclusion, and assisted with employee engagement and retention. She led the organization's DEI strategy and represented the Broncos on social justice initiatives. &nbsp;Before working with the Broncos, Jude was senior associate athletic director and senior woman administrator (SWA) at the University of Wyoming from 2018-21. 

Jude oversaw seven programs at UW, including volleyball and women's soccer. She continued efforts to increase employee engagement and developed strategies to increase the talents of the athletic department staff. While at Wyoming, Jude was named to the Sports Business Journal's Women in Sports Business Class of 2020 and was honored as the 2019 Women Leaders in College Sports Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year. Jude worked closely with the Title IX office and assisted with an eight percent increase in ethnic minority and female employees in under-represented areas by helping strengthen the university's diversity and inclusion recruitment and professional development programming.

A native of Waukegan, Illinois, Jude, who was honorably discharged from the United States Naval Reserves, earned a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast journalism from Alabama State University. She also has a masters degree in sports management and marketing from the United States Sports Academy. She received her doctorate in athletics administration from Northcentral University.

Jude has experience working in Division II athletic departments at Queens College in New York and Cheyney University in Pennsylvania. She was the Assistant Vice President for Athletics at Queens College from 2011-18. She managed a staff of 50 employees while leading fundraising initiatives that raised $3.7 million dollars annually. During her time at Queens College, the Knights won 14 East Coast Conference championships. At Cheyney University, the oldest Historically Black College and University in the United States, Jude served as the Athletics Director from 2007-11.

Jude's other athletic career experience includes volleyball coaching stops at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington, Coppin State University, and the University of the District of Colombia. She also served as SWA at Coppin State and was the university's director of compliance.

Jude was named one of the 50 Most Influential Black People in Sports by USA Today Sports, one of CORE Magazine's 100 Most Influential Blacks Today, and was named in the 10th annual Sports Business Journal Game Changers: Women in Sports Business Class of 2020. Jude was also honored with the Women Leaders in College Sports Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year in 2019, which is given to an individual who demonstrates courage, conviction, and perseverance, and is an advocate for gender equity and diversity.

Jude is a current member of the board of trustees at the United States Sports Academic and the Sports Business Journal All-In Conference. Previously, she was the National Board President for the Minority Opportunities Athletics Association.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712074182042.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State College Athletics&nbsp; CHADRON –&nbsp;An accomplished administrator with more than two decades of athletic experience and a former vice president for the Denver Broncos, Dr. China Jude, has been named as Chadron State College's interim athletic director President Ron K. Patterson announced Tuesday.Jude, who begins April 8, will lead and supervise the CSC athletic department as the college searches for its permanent athletic director. Ted Tewahade, who was serving in the interim athletic director role, will return to his position as associate athletic director."I'm excited that Dr. Jude will be joining Chadron State College because she's a great leader," Patterson said. "Dr. Jude has a proven track record of success, demonstrates inclusivity, and builds engagement, and she will provide strategic thinking and direction to our athletic program. I'm eager to see what she will be able to accomplish. I also want to commend Ted Tewahade on the excellent leadership he demonstrated while supervising the athletic program in a temporary role."Jude is the CEO and founder of Auggie Oliver, LLC, a consulting firm that works to strengthen organizational demographics, as well as increasing engagement and culture. Jude's clients include several universities, professional athletic organizations, and collegiate athletic conferences."I really am excited for the opportunity to re-enter the college space," Jude said. "Having the opportunity to connect with President Patterson and learning about his vision for the college, as well as learning more about the wonderful people at the institution and the great things that are being done made me want to be a part of CSC. There's a great team at Chadron State and it is a great opportunity."Prior to consulting, Jude was the inaugural Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with the Denver Broncos from 2021-23. During her time with the Broncos, Jude collaborated with a variety of departments that emphasized cross-functional capabilities. She also helped launch events geared toward diversity, equity, and inclusion, and assisted with employee engagement and retention. She led the organization's DEI strategy and represented the Broncos on social justice initiatives. &nbsp;Before working with the Broncos, Jude was senior associate athletic director and senior woman administrator (SWA) at the University of Wyoming from 2018-21. Jude oversaw seven programs at UW, including volleyball and women's soccer. She continued efforts to increase employee engagement and developed strategies to increase the talents of the athletic department staff. While at Wyoming, Jude was named to the Sports Business Journal's Women in Sports Business Class of 2020 and was honored as the 2019 Women Leaders in College Sports Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year. Jude worked closely with the Title IX office and assisted with an eight percent increase in ethnic minority and female employees in under-represented areas by helping strengthen the university's diversity and inclusion recruitment and professional development programming.A native of Waukegan, Illinois, Jude, who was honorably discharged from the United States Naval Reserves, earned a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast journalism from Alabama State University. She also has a masters degree in sports management and marketing from the United States Sports Academy. She received her doctorate in athletics administration from Northcentral University.Jude has experience working in Division II athletic departments at Queens College in New York and Cheyney University in Pennsylvania. She was the Assistant Vice President for Athletics at Queens College from 2011-18. She managed a staff of 50 employees while leading fundraising initiatives that raised $3.7 million dollars annually. During her time at Queens College, the Knights won 14 East Coast Conference championships. At Cheyney University, the oldest Historically Black College and University in the United States, Jude served as the Athletics Director from 2007-11.Jude's other athletic career experience includes volleyball coaching stops at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington, Coppin State University, and the University of the District of Colombia. She also served as SWA at Coppin State and was the university's director of compliance.Jude was named one of the 50 Most Influential Black People in Sports by USA Today Sports, one of CORE Magazine's 100 Most Influential Blacks Today, and was named in the 10th annual Sports Business Journal Game Changers: Women in Sports Business Class of 2020. Jude was also honored with the Women Leaders in College Sports Nell Jackson Administrator of the Year in 2019, which is given to an individual who demonstrates courage, conviction, and perseverance, and is an advocate for gender equity and diversity.Jude is a current member of the board of trustees at the United States Sports Academic and the Sports Business Journal All-In Conference. Previously, she was the National Board President for the Minority Opportunities Athletics Association.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chadron State College announces Dr. China Jude as interim athletic director

KEARNEY –Marty Levinson&nbsp;has been hired as head men's basketball coach at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, Director of Athletics&nbsp;Marc Bauer&nbsp;announced today. UNK will formally introduce Levinson on April 5 (Friday) at 9 a.m. in the Health &amp; Sports Center. He begins his duties immediately.

"It's an honor to announce Marty Levinson as Head Men's Basketball Coach at UNK. Coach Levinson is enthusiastic about his return home to Nebraska and to lead the Loper Men's Basketball program in the MIAA," said Bauer. "He has proven his ability to build programs and lead with integrity while ensuring his players excel in the classroom, community, and life."

Levinson, 42,&nbsp;is no stranger to Nebraska or UNK men's basketball. The Grand Island native is a ​Bellevue West High School and UNK graduate, played high school, college, and professional basketball in the state, and held coaching positions at Grand Island Central Catholic, UNK, Central C.C.-Columbus, and assisted with Everything to Gain (ETG), one of the top AAU programs in Nebraska.

Having worked at the collegiate level for the past 17 years, Levinson has been a successful head coach at Central C.C. (2012-14), Southern Arkansas University Tech (2018-23) and Trinity Valley, Texas (2023-24). He was the first-ever coach in SAU Tech history, building the program up from the ground floor.

Levinson has amassed a career record of 191-94 (.670 winning pct.), been named District Coach of the Year five times and Region C.O.Y on four occasions. Finally, he saw five of his teams qualify for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Tournament, finishing as high as third.

"I'm honored and grateful to be named the head men's basketball coach at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. To follow in the footsteps of great men like Dr. Tom Kropp, Jerry Heuser and Kevin Lofton is a responsibility that I do not take lightly," said Levinson. "Many special people and great teams have worn Loper Blue and Gold, and I will put my heart and soul into building relationships and preparing young men for the world just like the leaders before me."

Holding undergraduate and graduate degrees from UNK, Levinson has coached many players that have had successful careers at the NCAA Division I and Division II levels and some that have continued to play professionally. 

That large group includes Quinston Reggins (D1 Coppin State, Md. &amp; UNK), Tre'Shawn Thurman (UNO, Nevada &amp; G-League), Tra-Deon Hollins (UNO &amp; G-League), Shereef Mitchell (Creighton &amp; Ohio U.), and&nbsp;Kezie Okpala (Stanford &amp; NBA).

​"During the search, it became more evident that Coach Levinson was the best fit for our program because of his connections on campus, in the community, across the state, and with the alumni. Although challenging, I fully expect him to come in, get after it, and achieve great things at UNK," said Bauer.&nbsp;Playing for Southeast C.C., Augustana (S.D.), UNK and the professional Nebraska Cranes in Kearney, Levinson has also served as an assistant coach at six colleges. That includes Division I Pacific (Calif.) and at UNK when the Lopers were a member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)."

Growing up in Central Nebraska and coming to Kearney to watch guys like Eric Strand, Kenya Crandell, and Mike Hancock inspired me as a young man! I hope to bring back the passion, brotherhood, and success that those guys and their teams displayed," said Levinson. "UNK has always been a place where the top Nebraska kids from Scottsbluff to Omaha could come play and have their family and friends share the experience. I want those players to be excited and proud to put Lopers across their chest and know that they represent themselves, their families, the local community as well as a lot of great players that paved the way before them."

Levinson was a key guard on one of the most successful men's basketball teams in UNK history. The 2002-03 Lopers went 30-3, won the RMAC regular season title and reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA Division II Tournament. In the North Central Regional finals, UNK beat rival Metro (Colo.) State, 94-87, in front of a sold-out Health &amp; Sports Center crowd. Levinson redshirted during 2003-04 when the Lopers reached the Sweet 16 and helped the 2004-05 squad win 23 games and get back to the NCAA Tournament.

"The Health &amp; Sports Center is one of if not the best facilities and atmospheres in all of Division II. When we won the 2003 regional title, Metro head coach Mike Dunlap (a longtime college and NBA coach), walked out to center court after defeat and turned in a circle to salute the capacity crowd," said Levinson. "The energy in the building was special and my dream is to revive that. We need the community, school, and all the Loper faithful to get behind us. The younger generation of players and fans don't know how great UNK can be and I will give everything I can to get it back!"

Meet Marty Levinson&nbsp;Coaching Experience

Personal:&nbsp;Mother, Brenda, and stepfather, Kris Sime, reside in Gretna; father, Byron, resides in Ashton; Brother, Cody, and his wife, Michelle, reside in Gretna and have three children (Hailey, Connor &amp; Jordyn)

Education:&nbsp;B.A. in Education, UNK '06; Master's in Education, UNK '11

Playing Experience:&nbsp;Grand Island Senior H.S. (1996-98; 31-11 record); Bellevue West H.S. (1998-00; 45-4 record; state runners up &amp; state champs); Augustana U., S.D. (200-01); Southeast C.C. (2001-02; first-team all-state); UNK (2003-05; 81-15 record; second-team All-RMAC in 2005); Nebraska Cranes of the U.S. Basketball League (2005)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712072857022.jpeg" alt="Coach Levinson 2 (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Coach Levinson 2 (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKEARNEY –Marty Levinson&nbsp;has been hired as head men's basketball coach at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, Director of Athletics&nbsp;Marc Bauer&nbsp;announced today. UNK will formally introduce Levinson on April 5 (Friday) at 9 a.m. in the Health &amp; Sports Center. He begins his duties immediately."It's an honor to announce Marty Levinson as Head Men's Basketball Coach at UNK. Coach Levinson is enthusiastic about his return home to Nebraska and to lead the Loper Men's Basketball program in the MIAA," said Bauer. "He has proven his ability to build programs and lead with integrity while ensuring his players excel in the classroom, community, and life."Levinson, 42,&nbsp;is no stranger to Nebraska or UNK men's basketball. The Grand Island native is a ​Bellevue West High School and UNK graduate, played high school, college, and professional basketball in the state, and held coaching positions at Grand Island Central Catholic, UNK, Central C.C.-Columbus, and assisted with Everything to Gain (ETG), one of the top AAU programs in Nebraska.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712072844221.jpeg" alt="Coach Levinson (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Coach Levinson (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Having worked at the collegiate level for the past 17 years, Levinson has been a successful head coach at Central C.C. (2012-14), Southern Arkansas University Tech (2018-23) and Trinity Valley, Texas (2023-24). He was the first-ever coach in SAU Tech history, building the program up from the ground floor.Levinson has amassed a career record of 191-94 (.670 winning pct.), been named District Coach of the Year five times and Region C.O.Y on four occasions. Finally, he saw five of his teams qualify for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Tournament, finishing as high as third."I'm honored and grateful to be named the head men's basketball coach at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. To follow in the footsteps of great men like Dr. Tom Kropp, Jerry Heuser and Kevin Lofton is a responsibility that I do not take lightly," said Levinson. "Many special people and great teams have worn Loper Blue and Gold, and I will put my heart and soul into building relationships and preparing young men for the world just like the leaders before me."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712072961415.jpeg" alt="Coach Levinson 3 (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Coach Levinson 3 (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Holding undergraduate and graduate degrees from UNK, Levinson has coached many players that have had successful careers at the NCAA Division I and Division II levels and some that have continued to play professionally. That large group includes Quinston Reggins (D1 Coppin State, Md. &amp; UNK), Tre'Shawn Thurman (UNO, Nevada &amp; G-League), Tra-Deon Hollins (UNO &amp; G-League), Shereef Mitchell (Creighton &amp; Ohio U.), and&nbsp;Kezie Okpala (Stanford &amp; NBA).​"During the search, it became more evident that Coach Levinson was the best fit for our program because of his connections on campus, in the community, across the state, and with the alumni. Although challenging, I fully expect him to come in, get after it, and achieve great things at UNK," said Bauer.&nbsp;Playing for Southeast C.C., Augustana (S.D.), UNK and the professional Nebraska Cranes in Kearney, Levinson has also served as an assistant coach at six colleges. That includes Division I Pacific (Calif.) and at UNK when the Lopers were a member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712072978671.png" alt="Marty Levinson MBB (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Marty Levinson MBB (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Growing up in Central Nebraska and coming to Kearney to watch guys like Eric Strand, Kenya Crandell, and Mike Hancock inspired me as a young man! I hope to bring back the passion, brotherhood, and success that those guys and their teams displayed," said Levinson. "UNK has always been a place where the top Nebraska kids from Scottsbluff to Omaha could come play and have their family and friends share the experience. I want those players to be excited and proud to put Lopers across their chest and know that they represent themselves, their families, the local community as well as a lot of great players that paved the way before them."Levinson was a key guard on one of the most successful men's basketball teams in UNK history. The 2002-03 Lopers went 30-3, won the RMAC regular season title and reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA Division II Tournament. In the North Central Regional finals, UNK beat rival Metro (Colo.) State, 94-87, in front of a sold-out Health &amp; Sports Center crowd. Levinson redshirted during 2003-04 when the Lopers reached the Sweet 16 and helped the 2004-05 squad win 23 games and get back to the NCAA Tournament."The Health &amp; Sports Center is one of if not the best facilities and atmospheres in all of Division II. When we won the 2003 regional title, Metro head coach Mike Dunlap (a longtime college and NBA coach), walked out to center court after defeat and turned in a circle to salute the capacity crowd," said Levinson. "The energy in the building was special and my dream is to revive that. We need the community, school, and all the Loper faithful to get behind us. The younger generation of players and fans don't know how great UNK can be and I will give everything I can to get it back!"Meet Marty Levinson&nbsp;Coaching Experience<ul>
 <li>Head Coach, Trinity Valley Community College; Athens, Texas (2023-24)&nbsp;… 27-8 record</li><li>Head Coach, Southern Arkansas University Tech; Camden, Ark. (2017-23)&nbsp;… 95-54 record</li><li>Assistant Coach, Saddleback Community College; Mission Viejo, Calif. (2015-17)</li><li>Assistant Coach, Las Positas Community College; Livermore, Calif. (2014-15)</li><li>Head Coach, Central Community College-Columbus; Columbus, Neb. (2011-14)&nbsp;… 69-32 record</li><li>Graduate Assistant Coach, UNK (2009-11)</li><li>Assistant Coach, San Jose City College; San Jose, Calif. (2008-09)</li><li>Assistant Coach, West Valley College; Saratoga, Calif. (2007-08)</li><li>Assistant Coach, University of the Pacific; Stockton, Calif. (2006-07)</li><li>Assistant Coach, Grand Island Central Catholic H.S. (2005-06)</li>
 </ul>Personal:&nbsp;Mother, Brenda, and stepfather, Kris Sime, reside in Gretna; father, Byron, resides in Ashton; Brother, Cody, and his wife, Michelle, reside in Gretna and have three children (Hailey, Connor &amp; Jordyn)Education:&nbsp;B.A. in Education, UNK '06; Master's in Education, UNK '11Playing Experience:&nbsp;Grand Island Senior H.S. (1996-98; 31-11 record); Bellevue West H.S. (1998-00; 45-4 record; state runners up &amp; state champs); Augustana U., S.D. (200-01); Southeast C.C. (2001-02; first-team all-state); UNK (2003-05; 81-15 record; second-team All-RMAC in 2005); Nebraska Cranes of the U.S. Basketball League (2005)

BREAKING: Grand Island Native, Former Loper Returning Home As Next UNK Men's Basketball Head Coach

Tickets to Nebraska volleyball's May 4 spring match against Denver in Kearney will go on sale to the public Tuesday, April 2 at 10 a.m., at the Buffalo County Fairgrounds.

Tickets for the match are $12 for upper-bowl bleacher seats and $25 for lower-bowl chairback seats. All seats are general admission. Tickets must be purchased in person, with cash only, by someone at least 16 years old. A maximum of four tickets are available per person. Lost tickets will not be replaced. Tickets will not be available through the Nebraska, KHS or UNK athletic offices.

The Huskers will face the Denver Pioneers at UNK's Health and Sports Center on Saturday, May 4 at 2 p.m. Doors to the match will open at 12:30 p.m. The Huskers will sign autographs following the match.

The Huskers played their 2017 spring match at Kearney High School but have not played a spring match at UNK's 5,000-seat Health and Sports Center. Kearney Public Schools is the primary host of the event, working in partnership with Nebraska Athletics, UNK and the Kearney Visitors Bureau.

For the third consecutive year, the Huskers' spring match will be televised statewide on Nebraska Public Media and streamed online on B1G+. In addition to television and streaming coverage, the match will air on select Huskers Radio Network affiliates and the official Huskers App.

The trip back to Kearney continues Nebraska’s tradition of touring the state for spring volleyball matches. Since 2007, Nebraska has played spring matches in North Platte, Scottsbluff, Grand Island, Norfolk, Wayne, Ogallala, Kearney and McCook.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsTickets to Nebraska volleyball's May 4 spring match against Denver in Kearney will go on sale to the public Tuesday, April 2 at 10 a.m., at the Buffalo County Fairgrounds.Tickets for the match are $12 for upper-bowl bleacher seats and $25 for lower-bowl chairback seats. All seats are general admission. Tickets must be purchased in person, with cash only, by someone at least 16 years old. A maximum of four tickets are available per person. Lost tickets will not be replaced. Tickets will not be available through the Nebraska, KHS or UNK athletic offices.The Huskers will face the Denver Pioneers at UNK's Health and Sports Center on Saturday, May 4 at 2 p.m. Doors to the match will open at 12:30 p.m. The Huskers will sign autographs following the match.The Huskers played their 2017 spring match at Kearney High School but have not played a spring match at UNK's 5,000-seat Health and Sports Center. Kearney Public Schools is the primary host of the event, working in partnership with Nebraska Athletics, UNK and the Kearney Visitors Bureau.For the third consecutive year, the Huskers' spring match will be televised statewide on Nebraska Public Media and streamed online on B1G+. In addition to television and streaming coverage, the match will air on select Huskers Radio Network affiliates and the official Huskers App.The trip back to Kearney continues Nebraska’s tradition of touring the state for spring volleyball matches. Since 2007, Nebraska has played spring matches in North Platte, Scottsbluff, Grand Island, Norfolk, Wayne, Ogallala, Kearney and McCook.

Spring Match tickets on sale Tuesday morning

The Nebraska softball team plays its final non-conference game of the regular season on Tuesday when the Huskers host the Kansas Jayhawks at Bowlin Stadium.

First pitch is set for 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Tickets can be purchased by visiting huskers.com/softball, calling 1-800-8-BIG-RED or at the Bowlin Stadium ticket office beginning one hour prior to first pitch. Fans can also watch the game with a subscription to Big Ten+, with subscriptions starting at $9.99 per month. A free radio broadcast of Tuesday’s game - and every game this season - will be available on Huskers.com or the official Huskers app.

Nebraska brings a five-game winning streak into Tuesday’s game, matching its longest winning streak of the season. Overall, the Huskers have won 10 of their last 11 games. The offense has powered the recent hot stretch as Nebraska is averaging 8.5 runs per game over its last 11 contests.

The Huskers have also won seven of their last eight home games. Nebraska is hosting Kansas for the first time since 2017 as each of the last seven meetings between the programs have been played in Lawrence.

Kansas enters Tuesday’s game with a 22-11-1 record after the Jayhawks were swept in a three-game series by No. 1 Oklahoma over the weekend. Kansas was ranked 24th in the USA Softball poll last week and the Jayhawks are No. 30 in the NCAA RPI ranking.

Huskers Showing Comeback Ability in 2024Nebraska has shown a knack for coming from behind this season. The Huskers have trailed in 14 of their 21 wins, including eight times where Nebraska came back from a multi-run deficit.

A Sister Act at the Top of the LineupThe Andrews sisters have hit first and second in the Nebraska batting order each of the past 18 games with younger sister Billie Andrews leading off and older sister Brooke Andrews hitting second. The sisters have proven to be a productive combination at the top of the order.

Caneda Thriving as ‘Second’ Leadoff HitterWith the Andrews sisters anchoring the top of the lineup, Nebraska had been in search of a strong No. 9 hitter to act as a second leadoff hitter batting ahead of Billie Andrews. The Huskers appear to have found that hitter in Katelyn Caneda.

Middle of the Order Swinging Hot BatsWhile the top and bottom of the Husker lineup have been strong of late, three big bats in the middle of the order have been productive as well. Ava Bredwell, Samantha Bland and Sydney Gray have all been enjoying hot stretches over the past four weeks.

Tokheim Returns in a Big WayTalia Tokheim has returned to the Nebraska lineup in a big way. Tokheim played in just 15 games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury. She went exactly one year between starts, but Tokheim has returned to start Nebraska’s last four games.

Scouting Kansas (22-11-1)Kansas is 22-11-1 on the season, including a 7-5 record in Big 12 Conference play. The Jayhawks, who were ranked in the USA Softball poll last week and were the top receiving votes team in the NFCA coaches’ poll, have won nine of their last 13 games despite being swept in a three-game series by No. 1 Oklahoma last weekend. Nebraska and Kansas share five common opponents this season in Creighton, Illinois, Missouri, Oregon and Wichita State. The Huskers went 4-4 against that group while the Jayhawks were&nbsp;4-2.

Kansas is batting .267 as a team while averaging 4.5 runs per game. In the circle, the Jayhawks boast a 2.84 ERA and a .964 fielding percentage while limiting opponents to 3.3 runs per game.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska softball team plays its final non-conference game of the regular season on Tuesday when the Huskers host the Kansas Jayhawks at Bowlin Stadium.First pitch is set for 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Tickets can be purchased by visiting huskers.com/softball, calling 1-800-8-BIG-RED or at the Bowlin Stadium ticket office beginning one hour prior to first pitch. Fans can also watch the game with a subscription to Big Ten+, with subscriptions starting at $9.99 per month. A free radio broadcast of Tuesday’s game - and every game this season - will be available on Huskers.com or the official Huskers app.Nebraska brings a five-game winning streak into Tuesday’s game, matching its longest winning streak of the season. Overall, the Huskers have won 10 of their last 11 games. The offense has powered the recent hot stretch as Nebraska is averaging 8.5 runs per game over its last 11 contests.The Huskers have also won seven of their last eight home games. Nebraska is hosting Kansas for the first time since 2017 as each of the last seven meetings between the programs have been played in Lawrence.Kansas enters Tuesday’s game with a 22-11-1 record after the Jayhawks were swept in a three-game series by No. 1 Oklahoma over the weekend. Kansas was ranked 24th in the USA Softball poll last week and the Jayhawks are No. 30 in the NCAA RPI ranking.Leading Off<ul>
 <li>Nebraska enters Tuesday’s game with 1,599 wins in program history.</li><li>The Huskers entered the week ranked in the top 10 nationally in doubles (5th, 64) and defensive double plays (4th, 20).</li><li>Nebraska used the same batting order in the final two games at Wisconsin, marking the first time this season NU has duplicated a batting order.</li><li>NU has won four games when trailing after six innings, its most such wins in a season this century.</li><li>Nebraska leads the Big Ten with 106 extra-base hits and is the only team in the conference with 100 extra-base hits.</li><li>Three Huskers rank in the top seven in the Big Ten in extra-base hits: Billie Andrews (1st, 23); Ava Bredwell (4th, 19); and Sydney Gray (7th, 17).</li><li>Billie Andrews and Sydney Gray are the only players to win multiple Big Ten Player of the Week awards this season.</li><li>Brooke Andrews has 99 career starts in center field and 98 career RBIs.</li><li>Billie Andrews entered the week as one of only 15 players nationally averaging 1.0 hit, 1.0 run and 1.0 RBI per game.</li><li>Billie Andrews is Nebraska’s all-time home run leader and ranks eighth in Big Ten history with 55 career home runs.</li>
 </ul>Huskers Showing Comeback Ability in 2024Nebraska has shown a knack for coming from behind this season. The Huskers have trailed in 14 of their 21 wins, including eight times where Nebraska came back from a multi-run deficit.<ul>
 <li>The Huskers have won four times when trailing after six innings this season. Nebraska is 4-8 when trailing after six innings this season after a 3-74 record in the previous five seasons.</li><li>Nebraska’s four wins this season when trailing after six innings of play are its most in a season since 2016, when the Huskers were 4-13 when trailing after six innings. A Nebraska team has not won five times in a season when trailing after six innings since at least 2000.</li>
 </ul>A Sister Act at the Top of the LineupThe Andrews sisters have hit first and second in the Nebraska batting order each of the past 18 games with younger sister Billie Andrews leading off and older sister Brooke Andrews hitting second. The sisters have proven to be a productive combination at the top of the order.<ul>
 <li>During the last 18 games when Billie has led off and Brooke has hit second, Nebraska has averaged 7.3 runs per game. In the first 16 games, Nebraska averaged 4.7 runs per game.</li><li>The duo has hit .336 collectively over the last 18 games while combining to average 2.6 hits per game, 2.4 runs per game and 2.0 RBIs per game.</li>
 </ul>Caneda Thriving as ‘Second’ Leadoff HitterWith the Andrews sisters anchoring the top of the lineup, Nebraska had been in search of a strong No. 9 hitter to act as a second leadoff hitter batting ahead of Billie Andrews. The Huskers appear to have found that hitter in Katelyn Caneda.<ul>
 <li>Caneda, who posted the third-highest batting average (.366) by a freshman in program history last year, has bounced back from a slow start to the season. In the last four weeks, Caneda is batting .333 (15-for-45) with a .444 on-base percentage, 12 runs and 11 RBIs.</li><li>As Caneda has gotten hot, Rhonda Revelle has chosen to move Caneda down in the order to the No. 9 spot in the hopes that Caneda will get on base in front of Billie Andrews. The move has proven effective as Nebraska has scored 67 runs in the eight games Caneda has hit ninth (8.4 runs per game) with Caneda scoring nine runs and Billie Andrews totaling 13 RBIs.</li><li>Since moving into the No. 9 spot in the lineup eight games ago, Caneda is 8-for-19 with five walks, reaching base in 13 of her 24 plate appearances for a .542 on-base percentage.</li>
 </ul>Middle of the Order Swinging Hot BatsWhile the top and bottom of the Husker lineup have been strong of late, three big bats in the middle of the order have been productive as well. Ava Bredwell, Samantha Bland and Sydney Gray have all been enjoying hot stretches over the past four weeks.<ul>
 <li>Bredwell is 17-for-39 (.436) over the last four weeks with seven doubles, two triples, four homers and 15 RBIs in 16 games. Over the last four weeks, she leads Nebraska in doubles.</li><li>Bland is 17-for-51 (.333) over the last four weeks with four doubles, two homers and 13 RBIs.</li><li>Over the past four weeks, Gray leads Nebraska with a .417 average (20-for-48), seven homers, 12 walks, a .917 slugging percentage and a .525 on-base percentage.</li><li>The Huskers have hit Bredwell third, Bland fourth and Gray fifth in each of the last five games. In those five games, NU is averaging 8.8 runs per game.</li>
 </ul>Tokheim Returns in a Big WayTalia Tokheim has returned to the Nebraska lineup in a big way. Tokheim played in just 15 games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury. She went exactly one year between starts, but Tokheim has returned to start Nebraska’s last four games.<ul>
 <li>Tokheim is 5-for-14 (.357) with three homers, six runs and six RBIs since returning to the Nebraska starting lineup. She has had a hit, a run and an RBI in three of her four starts.</li><li>Tokheim has three extra-base hits in 15 at bats this season and 13 extra-base hits in 54 career at bats. She averages an extra-base hit every four at bats in her career.</li>
 </ul>Scouting Kansas (22-11-1)Kansas is 22-11-1 on the season, including a 7-5 record in Big 12 Conference play. The Jayhawks, who were ranked in the USA Softball poll last week and were the top receiving votes team in the NFCA coaches’ poll, have won nine of their last 13 games despite being swept in a three-game series by No. 1 Oklahoma last weekend. Nebraska and Kansas share five common opponents this season in Creighton, Illinois, Missouri, Oregon and Wichita State. The Huskers went 4-4 against that group while the Jayhawks were&nbsp;4-2.Kansas is batting .267 as a team while averaging 4.5 runs per game. In the circle, the Jayhawks boast a 2.84 ERA and a .964 fielding percentage while limiting opponents to 3.3 runs per game.<ul>
 <li>Campbell Bagshaw is the lone Jayhawk starter hitting above .300. Bagshaw leads the team with a .315 average, two triples and 25 RBIs.</li><li>Lyric Moore is hitting .298 and leads KU with five home runs and a .521 slugging percentage. She is also tied for the team lead with two triples.</li><li>Hailey Cripe owns a .927 average and leads the team with 30 hits and seven doubles while ranking second with 23 RBIs.</li><li>Angela Price leads Kansas with nine stolen bases and a .393 on-base percentage to complement a .274 average.</li><li>In the circle, Kansas has relied on the combination of Kasey Hamilton and Katie Brooks, who have thrown more than 80 percent of the team’s innings.</li><li>Hamilton is 9-7 with two saves and a 2.73 ERA in 115.1 innings. She has appeared in 21 of Kansas’ 34 games with 17 starts, 15 complete games and five shutouts. Hamilton is tied for the national lead with 15 complete games and ranks 10th in shutouts and 12th in innings pitched. Opponents are hitting just .224 against Hamilton.</li><li>Brooks is 10-3 with a 2.33 ERA in 75.0 innings. She has appeared in 16 games with 14 starts. Brooks has allowed only one home run this season.</li><li>Five other Jayhawks have seen action behind Hamilton and Brooks. Olivia Bruno is 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA in 16.1 innings while Addison Purvis is 1-0 with a 2.00 ERA in 7.0 innings and Lizzy Ludwig is 0-0 with a 7.00 ERA in 7.0 innings. Savanna DesRochers (1-0, 7.00 ERA in 5.0 IP) and Anna Soles (0-0, 7.00 ERA in 1.0 IP) round out the Kansas staff.</li><li>Jennifer McFalls is in her sixth season at Kansas. Her 22 wins this season are just three shy of her most in a season with the Jayhawks. McFalls owns a 117-149-1 record at Kansas and in her head coaching career.</li>
 </ul>

Nebraska hosts Kansas on Tuesday

Nebraska men’s gymnast and team captain Taylor Christopulos was named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week, announced by the Big Ten Conference Monday afternoon following his performance against Ohio State on Tuesday, March 26.&nbsp;Christopulos helped the Huskers win a share of the Big Ten Conference Champions title, in addition to setting a top-three final team score of 418.200 in NU program history. The senior placed sixth on floor (14.05), seventh on pommel horse (13.95), fifth on vault (14.50), sixth on parallel bars, and concluded his performance for the afternoon by landing in third on high bar with a personal-best record of 14.05.&nbsp;The Layton, Utah native, also helped the Huskers to set two season-high team scores on both pommel horse and floor, with the team score of 71.700 on pommel horse surpassing Nebraska’s program record by two-tenths, previously set at last meet against Illinois.

Ohio State’s Zach Synder won Big Ten Freshman of the Week, and Ohio State’s Parker Thackston earned Big Ten Event Specialist of the Week.&nbsp;The Huskers will return to competition to compete for a chance at the conference championship title for the NCAA Big Ten Championships on Friday and Saturday April 5-6. The meet is set to take place at State Farm Center in Champaign-Urbana, Ill. at 7 p.m. (CT). Fans can keep up with live updates by following @HuskerMGym on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Both sessions (team/event finals) will be broadcasted live on the Big Ten Network.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska men’s gymnast and team captain Taylor Christopulos was named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week, announced by the Big Ten Conference Monday afternoon following his performance against Ohio State on Tuesday, March 26.&nbsp;Christopulos helped the Huskers win a share of the Big Ten Conference Champions title, in addition to setting a top-three final team score of 418.200 in NU program history. The senior placed sixth on floor (14.05), seventh on pommel horse (13.95), fifth on vault (14.50), sixth on parallel bars, and concluded his performance for the afternoon by landing in third on high bar with a personal-best record of 14.05.&nbsp;The Layton, Utah native, also helped the Huskers to set two season-high team scores on both pommel horse and floor, with the team score of 71.700 on pommel horse surpassing Nebraska’s program record by two-tenths, previously set at last meet against Illinois.Ohio State’s Zach Synder won Big Ten Freshman of the Week, and Ohio State’s Parker Thackston earned Big Ten Event Specialist of the Week.&nbsp;The Huskers will return to competition to compete for a chance at the conference championship title for the NCAA Big Ten Championships on Friday and Saturday April 5-6. The meet is set to take place at State Farm Center in Champaign-Urbana, Ill. at 7 p.m. (CT). Fans can keep up with live updates by following @HuskerMGym on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Both sessions (team/event finals) will be broadcasted live on the Big Ten Network.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Christopulos collects Big Ten Gymnast of the Week Honors

Story by Supernovas Communications

OMAHA, Neb. -&nbsp;The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas&nbsp;(10-4) hit the road for the first time since March 9 as Omaha takes on the San Diego Mojo (3-7) for the second time this season on Tuesday, April 2. It will be Omaha’s first of two trips out to San Diego with Tuesday’s contest set to begin at 9 p.m. CDT.&nbsp;

The match will be broadcast live on the Supernovas Radio Network, featuring its flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtFkfsPgNIrZUyDh9O1O0pghyNN54AVtOPlc63Z1yl_YdFemp7rTgXOlOiK-7PSaZZR42N8WVN5bxm_oa-5J8qlAtcMwtFFU4vg==&amp;c=6uk9S1P7U24S_Zq20mSGGmCGxvV1IbkVbJwFVbr3dMWhvc-BDoLu8w==&amp;ch=P_QVmHyWog0nUSX1b3D_SOfyIYJZEvIyOcdhzadcfVMlr29P3v3VvA==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket.</a>&nbsp;The broadcast will also be live on 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff), and KTIC (West Point).&nbsp;

Tuesday’s contest will also be streamed live on the Pro Volleyball Federation's YouTube channel.&nbsp;

Full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtNKTtKH0l3f0F5FOgfn7vQFjRWXV9O0j0kuTzhhoPSQsW2Q69KwhmE6aUatprtMwFL5TuHnh-OmAQt2M6RhgDPAmM7vdh_46K8Jd-eYijBtIfbUHj0uz_EwgtJhVJ7Rwjul8x_xCq9qyN2gUOO47aJSjwGuaTTyqv_w4zm6IjbfR8vjNJH3Hu94tmMRBNJ6e9Y659f3kQrRRunk2g-ThsqE=&amp;c=6uk9S1P7U24S_Zq20mSGGmCGxvV1IbkVbJwFVbr3dMWhvc-BDoLu8w==&amp;ch=P_QVmHyWog0nUSX1b3D_SOfyIYJZEvIyOcdhzadcfVMlr29P3v3VvA==" target="_blank">here.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

The Supernovas enter Tuesday with a three-match winning streak which matches the franchise record. Omaha has had two previous three-match winning streaks this season, winning three straight from Feb. 12 through Feb. 18 as well as Feb. 25 through March 9. &nbsp;

The Mojo are 2-2 in their last four matches, getting swept last time out at Atlanta on March 30. Despite a 3-7 record, two of those wins have come at home including a 3-1 win over Grand Rapids on Feb. 23 and a five-set victory against the Rise on March 4. &nbsp;

Omaha domianted the first time the two franchises met on Feb. 3 in Omaha as the Supernovoas hit a season-high .373 en route to a 3-0 sweep. Soon-to-be three-time Olympian&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;had one of her best performances of the season, hammering down 13 kills on a .444 hitting percentage. &nbsp;

Cruz enters Tuesday as the league leader in aces with 23 as she leads a potent lineup that excels from behind the service line. The Supernovas lead the league with 65 aces in 14 matches for a 4.64 match average. San Diego is the complete opposite as they sit last in the league with 2.8 aces per match. &nbsp;

Temi Thomas-Ailara leads the Mojo attack with 129 kills on the season which includes a team-leading seven aces and 13 blocks. She’s tallied double-digit kills in the last four matches. Although, her lowest kill total of the season came against Omaha on Feb. 3 when she recorded only four kills. &nbsp;

The middle blockers will be another storyline to watch. Supernovas&nbsp;Tori Dixon&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hristina Vuchkova&nbsp;has beecome a dominant duo for Omaha. Both reside in the top five in total blocks including 41 from Dixon, who tied a franchise high with five against Vegas on March 30. In fact, in the first match against the Mojo Dixon hit a franchise record .550. Vuchkova started slow after arriving from the Chinese League, recording 10 blocks in her first five matches. She’s turned it on in the latest string of matches, totaling 26 blocks in the last six matches alone. &nbsp;

Mojo middle Ronika Stone is one of the more athletic middle blockers in the league and she’s shown that with 21 blocks which is a team high. She’ll look to replicate her success from last time she faced Omaha when she hit .600 with 12 kills on 20 swings with no errors. &nbsp;

After Tuesday, Omaha returns home to face the Columbus Fury on Thursday, April 4 with first serve set for 7 p.m. CDT at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;

News Channel Nebraska will provide television coverage of the match with John Baylor and Nancy Metcalf on the call. Fans can also listen to all the action on the Supernovas Radio Network led by the flagship station 93.7 The Ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by Supernovas CommunicationsOMAHA, Neb. -&nbsp;The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas&nbsp;(10-4) hit the road for the first time since March 9 as Omaha takes on the San Diego Mojo (3-7) for the second time this season on Tuesday, April 2. It will be Omaha’s first of two trips out to San Diego with Tuesday’s contest set to begin at 9 p.m. CDT.&nbsp;The match will be broadcast live on the Supernovas Radio Network, featuring its flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtFkfsPgNIrZUyDh9O1O0pghyNN54AVtOPlc63Z1yl_YdFemp7rTgXOlOiK-7PSaZZR42N8WVN5bxm_oa-5J8qlAtcMwtFFU4vg==&amp;c=6uk9S1P7U24S_Zq20mSGGmCGxvV1IbkVbJwFVbr3dMWhvc-BDoLu8w==&amp;ch=P_QVmHyWog0nUSX1b3D_SOfyIYJZEvIyOcdhzadcfVMlr29P3v3VvA==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket.</a>&nbsp;The broadcast will also be live on 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff), and KTIC (West Point).&nbsp;Tuesday’s contest will also be streamed live on the Pro Volleyball Federation's YouTube channel.&nbsp;Full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtNKTtKH0l3f0F5FOgfn7vQFjRWXV9O0j0kuTzhhoPSQsW2Q69KwhmE6aUatprtMwFL5TuHnh-OmAQt2M6RhgDPAmM7vdh_46K8Jd-eYijBtIfbUHj0uz_EwgtJhVJ7Rwjul8x_xCq9qyN2gUOO47aJSjwGuaTTyqv_w4zm6IjbfR8vjNJH3Hu94tmMRBNJ6e9Y659f3kQrRRunk2g-ThsqE=&amp;c=6uk9S1P7U24S_Zq20mSGGmCGxvV1IbkVbJwFVbr3dMWhvc-BDoLu8w==&amp;ch=P_QVmHyWog0nUSX1b3D_SOfyIYJZEvIyOcdhzadcfVMlr29P3v3VvA==" target="_blank">here.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;The Supernovas enter Tuesday with a three-match winning streak which matches the franchise record. Omaha has had two previous three-match winning streaks this season, winning three straight from Feb. 12 through Feb. 18 as well as Feb. 25 through March 9. &nbsp;The Mojo are 2-2 in their last four matches, getting swept last time out at Atlanta on March 30. Despite a 3-7 record, two of those wins have come at home including a 3-1 win over Grand Rapids on Feb. 23 and a five-set victory against the Rise on March 4. &nbsp;Omaha domianted the first time the two franchises met on Feb. 3 in Omaha as the Supernovoas hit a season-high .373 en route to a 3-0 sweep. Soon-to-be three-time Olympian&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;had one of her best performances of the season, hammering down 13 kills on a .444 hitting percentage. &nbsp;Cruz enters Tuesday as the league leader in aces with 23 as she leads a potent lineup that excels from behind the service line. The Supernovas lead the league with 65 aces in 14 matches for a 4.64 match average. San Diego is the complete opposite as they sit last in the league with 2.8 aces per match. &nbsp;Temi Thomas-Ailara leads the Mojo attack with 129 kills on the season which includes a team-leading seven aces and 13 blocks. She’s tallied double-digit kills in the last four matches. Although, her lowest kill total of the season came against Omaha on Feb. 3 when she recorded only four kills. &nbsp;The middle blockers will be another storyline to watch. Supernovas&nbsp;Tori Dixon&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hristina Vuchkova&nbsp;has beecome a dominant duo for Omaha. Both reside in the top five in total blocks including 41 from Dixon, who tied a franchise high with five against Vegas on March 30. In fact, in the first match against the Mojo Dixon hit a franchise record .550. Vuchkova started slow after arriving from the Chinese League, recording 10 blocks in her first five matches. She’s turned it on in the latest string of matches, totaling 26 blocks in the last six matches alone. &nbsp;Mojo middle Ronika Stone is one of the more athletic middle blockers in the league and she’s shown that with 21 blocks which is a team high. She’ll look to replicate her success from last time she faced Omaha when she hit .600 with 12 kills on 20 swings with no errors. &nbsp;After Tuesday, Omaha returns home to face the Columbus Fury on Thursday, April 4 with first serve set for 7 p.m. CDT at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;News Channel Nebraska will provide television coverage of the match with John Baylor and Nancy Metcalf on the call. Fans can also listen to all the action on the Supernovas Radio Network led by the flagship station 93.7 The Ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supernovas clash with Mojo as Omaha visits San Diego for the first time   

The match will be broadcast live on the Supernovas Radio Network, featuring its flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtFkfsPgNIrZUyDh9O1O0pghyNN54AVtOPlc63Z1yl_YdFemp7rTgXOlOiK-7PSaZZR42N8WVN5bxm_oa-5J8qlAtcMwtFFU4vg==&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket.</a>&nbsp;The broadcast will also be live on 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff), and KTIC (West Point).&nbsp;

Full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtNKTtKH0l3f0F5FOgfn7vQFjRWXV9O0j0kuTzhhoPSQsW2Q69KwhmE6aUatprtMwFL5TuHnh-OmAQt2M6RhgDPAmM7vdh_46K8Jd-eYijBtIfbUHj0uz_EwgtJhVJ7Rwjul8x_xCq9qyN2gUOO47aJSjwGuaTTyqv_w4zm6IjbfR8vjNJH3Hu94tmMRBNJ6e9Y659f3kQrRRunk2g-ThsqE=&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">here.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation is the present&nbsp;and&nbsp;future of professional volleyball in North America. The League began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players joined by elite standouts from around the world. Seven teams have taken the court in the first season, with 10 teams scheduled for the 2025 campaign. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players and the entire fan experience is world class and the best offered anywhere. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtJIF-0pdLB8ElyI59mRxf9RJrXh-kCbQcivoEEQ9KQeN8mBo0cZJFum42QX-DEktB1zuQmY6SWPh0-xkimPx-MOOy01n_ggRmg==&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Geoff ExstromOmaha SupernovasOMAHA, Neb. -&nbsp;The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas&nbsp;(10-4) hit the road for the first time since March 9 as Omaha takes on the San Diego Mojo (3-7) for the second time this season on Tuesday, April 2. It will be Omaha’s first of two trips out to San Diego with Tuesday’s contest set to begin at 9 p.m. CDT.&nbsp;The match will be broadcast live on the Supernovas Radio Network, featuring its flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtFkfsPgNIrZUyDh9O1O0pghyNN54AVtOPlc63Z1yl_YdFemp7rTgXOlOiK-7PSaZZR42N8WVN5bxm_oa-5J8qlAtcMwtFFU4vg==&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket.</a>&nbsp;The broadcast will also be live on 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff), and KTIC (West Point).&nbsp;Tuesday’s contest will also be streamed live on the Pro Volleyball Federation's YouTube channel.&nbsp;Full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtNKTtKH0l3f0F5FOgfn7vQFjRWXV9O0j0kuTzhhoPSQsW2Q69KwhmE6aUatprtMwFL5TuHnh-OmAQt2M6RhgDPAmM7vdh_46K8Jd-eYijBtIfbUHj0uz_EwgtJhVJ7Rwjul8x_xCq9qyN2gUOO47aJSjwGuaTTyqv_w4zm6IjbfR8vjNJH3Hu94tmMRBNJ6e9Y659f3kQrRRunk2g-ThsqE=&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">here.&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;The Supernovas enter Tuesday with a three-match winning streak which matches the franchise record. Omaha has had two previous three-match winning streaks this season, winning three straight from Feb. 12 through Feb. 18 as well as Feb. 25 through March 9. &nbsp;The Mojo are 2-2 in their last four matches, getting swept last time out at Atlanta on March 30. Despite a 3-7 record, two of those wins have come at home including a 3-1 win over Grand Rapids on Feb. 23 and a five-set victory against the Rise on March 4. &nbsp;Omaha domianted the first time the two franchises met on Feb. 3 in Omaha as the Supernovoas hit a season-high .373 en route to a 3-0 sweep. Soon-to-be three-time Olympian&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;had one of her best performances of the season, hammering down 13 kills on a .444 hitting percentage. &nbsp;Cruz enters Tuesday as the league leader in aces with 23 as she leads a potent lineup that excels from behind the service line. The Supernovas lead the league with 65 aces in 14 matches for a 4.64 match average. San Diego is the complete opposite as they sit last in the league with 2.8 aces per match. &nbsp;Temi Thomas-Ailara leads the Mojo attack with 129 kills on the season which includes a team-leading seven aces and 13 blocks. She’s tallied double-digit kills in the last four matches. Although, her lowest kill total of the season came against Omaha on Feb. 3 when she recorded only four kills. &nbsp;The middle blockers will be another storyline to watch. Supernovas&nbsp;Tori Dixon&nbsp;and&nbsp;Hristina Vuchkova&nbsp;has beecome a dominant duo for Omaha. Both reside in the top five in total blocks including 41 from Dixon, who tied a franchise high with five against Vegas on March 30. In fact, in the first match against the Mojo Dixon hit a franchise record .550. Vuchkova started slow after arriving from the Chinese League, recording 10 blocks in her first five matches. She’s turned it on in the latest string of matches, totaling 26 blocks in the last six matches alone. &nbsp;Mojo middle Ronika Stone is one of the more athletic middle blockers in the league and she’s shown that with 21 blocks which is a team high. She’ll look to replicate her success from last time she faced Omaha when she hit .600 with 12 kills on 20 swings with no errors. &nbsp;After Tuesday, Omaha returns home to face the Columbus Fury on Thursday, April 4 with first serve set for 7 p.m. CDT at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;News Channel Nebraska will provide television coverage of the match with John Baylor and Nancy Metcalf on the call. Fans can also listen to all the action on the Supernovas Radio Network led by the flagship station 93.7 The Ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas aim to be the premier home of professional volleyball throughout the world. The team is owned by global music sensation&nbsp;Jason Derulo&nbsp;and entrepreneurs&nbsp;Danny White&nbsp;and&nbsp;Chris Erickson, Co-Founders of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is the present&nbsp;and&nbsp;future of professional volleyball in North America. The League began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players joined by elite standouts from around the world. Seven teams have taken the court in the first season, with 10 teams scheduled for the 2025 campaign. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players and the entire fan experience is world class and the best offered anywhere. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001rtW6cOqEvA_0Q3kj-bn6kjdJpVH-KOhV3v0noSyyh5xKhI_Jsa7OtJIF-0pdLB8ElyI59mRxf9RJrXh-kCbQcivoEEQ9KQeN8mBo0cZJFum42QX-DEktB1zuQmY6SWPh0-xkimPx-MOOy01n_ggRmg==&amp;c=bxytjiNKmjsOHb8QYpY9KKonhja3EjUK9Z8RfJ7BU3196ChgoxJFEw==&amp;ch=ID69rFLBH_tBton1KztGyiuOn3LtzQ-Ls1pke4_FdWQthYnOA3d54Q==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Supernovas Clash with Mojo as Omaha Visits San Diego for the First Time

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/huskers-sweep-northwestern-in-dramatic-fashion">Nebraska
8, Northwestern 7 (10 innings), Sunday, March 31, Evanston, Ill.</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/early-offense-pushes-huskers-past-wildcats">Nebraska
9, Northwestern 5, Saturday, March 30, Evanston, Ill.</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/huskers-grind-out-5-2-win-at-northwestern">Nebraska
5, Northwestern 2, Friday, March 29, Evanston, Ill.</a>

Softball
(21-13, 5-0 Big Ten)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/game-3-recap-at-wisconsin">Nebraska
5, Wisconsin 4 (9 innings), Sunday, March 31, Madison, Wis</a>.

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/game-2-at-wisconsin">Nebraska 7,
Wisconsin 3, Saturday, March 30, Madison, Wis.</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/game-1-at-wisconsin">Nebraska 11,
Wisconsin 7, Friday, March 29, Madison, Wis.</a>

Men’s
Gymnastics (6-2, 3-1 Big Ten, Big Ten Champions)

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/26/huskers-dubbed-regular-season-big-ten-champions-for-first-time-in-program-history">Huskers
Claim First Big Ten Regular-Season Championship</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/26/huskers-dubbed-regular-season-big-ten-champions-for-first-time-in-program-history">#5
Nebraska 418.200, #7 Ohio State 414.500, Tuesday, March 26, Columbus, Ohio</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/25/huskers-garner-ncaa-bid">#23 Huskers
Capture NCAA Regional Bid, Monday, March 25</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-add-two-florida-relays-titles-on-saturday">Huskers
Take Two Titles in Sunshine State, Saturday, March 30, Gainesville, Fla.</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/3/29/huskers-open-outdoor-season-with-trio-of-all-time-marks">Huskers
Open Outdoor Season with Four All-Time Marks, Friday, March 29</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/3/29/huskers-open-outdoor-season-with-trio-of-all-time-marks">Nebraska
Competes at Florida Relays, Stanford Invite, Mike Fanelli Track Classic, March
29-30</a>

Men’s
Tennis (12-7, 1-2 Big Ten)

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-take-two-wins-in-doubleheader-at-home">#65
Nebraska 5, Illinois State 2, Saturday, March 30, Dillon Tennis Center</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-take-two-wins-in-doubleheader-at-home">#65
Nebraska 6, Wisconsin 1, Saturday, March 30, Dillon Tennis Center</a>

Women’s
Tennis (10-7, 1-5 Big Ten)

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/huskers-drop-match-to-no-29-wisconsin">#29
Wisconsin 4, Nebraska 0, Sunday, March 31, Madison, Wis.</a>

<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/huskers-claim-two-tiebreaks-in-4-3-win-at-minnesota">Nebraska
4, Minnesota 3, Friday, March 29, Minneapolis, Minn.</a>

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 <tr>
 <th class="tg-tvgb">Tuesday, April 2</th>
 <th class="tg-urwp">Softball</th>
 <th class="tg-urwp">Kansas [Red Out] (B1G+)</th>
 <th class="tg-mcqj">Bowlin Stadium 5 p.m.</th>
 </tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Tuesday, April 2</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Baseball</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at Creighton (FloBaseball)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Omaha, Neb. 6 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Thursday, April 4</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Women’s Gymnastics</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at NCAA Regional Semifinals (ESPN+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Fayetteville, Ark. 1 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Bowling</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">vs. Maryville [NCAA Regionals]</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Lansing, Mich. 8 a.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Track &amp; Field</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at Jim Click Shootout</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Tucson, Ariz. 12:30 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Bowling</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at NCAA Regionals</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Lansing, Mich. 2 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Softball</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Penn State</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Bowlin Stadium 5:30 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Men’s Tennis</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Illinois (Huskers.com)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Dillon Tennis Center 6pm</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Baseball</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Ohio State (B1G+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Hawks Field at Haymarket Park 6:05PM</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Friday, April 5</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Men’s Gymnastics</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at Big Ten Championships (BTN)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Champaign, Ill. 7 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Bowling</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at NCAA Regionals</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Lansing, Mich. 8 a.m. or 2 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Track &amp; Field</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at Jim Click Shootout</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Tucson, Ariz. 11:30 a.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Soccer</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at Kansas State</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Manhattan, Kan. 1 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Softball</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Penn State (B1G+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Bowlin Stadium 1 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Baseball</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Ohio State (NPM/B1G+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Hawks Field at Haymarket Park</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Women’s Gymnastics</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at NCAA Regional Finals (ESPN+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Fayetteville, Ark. 5 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Saturday, April 6</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Men’s Gymnastics</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at Big Ten Event Finals (BTN)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Champaign, Ill. 7 p.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Sunday, April 7</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Men’s Golf</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">at Calusa Cup</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Naples, Fla. 8 a.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Sunday, April 7</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Women’s Tennis</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at Purdue (Huskers.com)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">West Lafayette, Ind. 11 a.m.</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Sunday, April 7</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Men’s Tennis</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Northwestern (Huskers.com)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Dillon Tennis Center Noon</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Sunday, April 7</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Softball</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Penn State (B1G+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Bowlin Stadium Noon</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-cd57">Sunday, April 7</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Baseball</td>
 <td class="tg-qm6x">Ohio State (B1G+)</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Hawks Field at Haymarket Park 12:05 PM</td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td class="tg-glvx">Monday, April 8</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">Men’s Golf</td>
 <td class="tg-0dph">at Calusa Cup</td>
 <td class="tg-mcqj">Naples, Fla. 8 a.m.</td>
 </tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>Husker
HighlightsBaseball
(20-5, 3-0 Big Ten)<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/huskers-sweep-northwestern-in-dramatic-fashion">Nebraska
8, Northwestern 7 (10 innings), Sunday, March 31, Evanston, Ill.</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/early-offense-pushes-huskers-past-wildcats">Nebraska
9, Northwestern 5, Saturday, March 30, Evanston, Ill.</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/huskers-grind-out-5-2-win-at-northwestern">Nebraska
5, Northwestern 2, Friday, March 29, Evanston, Ill.</a>Softball
(21-13, 5-0 Big Ten)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/game-3-recap-at-wisconsin">Nebraska
5, Wisconsin 4 (9 innings), Sunday, March 31, Madison, Wis</a>.<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/game-2-at-wisconsin">Nebraska 7,
Wisconsin 3, Saturday, March 30, Madison, Wis.</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/game-1-at-wisconsin">Nebraska 11,
Wisconsin 7, Friday, March 29, Madison, Wis.</a>Men’s
Gymnastics (6-2, 3-1 Big Ten, Big Ten Champions)<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/26/huskers-dubbed-regular-season-big-ten-champions-for-first-time-in-program-history">Huskers
Claim First Big Ten Regular-Season Championship</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/26/huskers-dubbed-regular-season-big-ten-champions-for-first-time-in-program-history">#5
Nebraska 418.200, #7 Ohio State 414.500, Tuesday, March 26, Columbus, Ohio</a>Women’s
Gymnastics<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/25/huskers-garner-ncaa-bid">#23 Huskers
Capture NCAA Regional Bid, Monday, March 25</a>Track
&amp; Field<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-add-two-florida-relays-titles-on-saturday">Huskers
Take Two Titles in Sunshine State, Saturday, March 30, Gainesville, Fla.</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/3/29/huskers-open-outdoor-season-with-trio-of-all-time-marks">Huskers
Open Outdoor Season with Four All-Time Marks, Friday, March 29</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/3/29/huskers-open-outdoor-season-with-trio-of-all-time-marks">Nebraska
Competes at Florida Relays, Stanford Invite, Mike Fanelli Track Classic, March
29-30</a>Men’s
Tennis (12-7, 1-2 Big Ten)<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-take-two-wins-in-doubleheader-at-home">#65
Nebraska 5, Illinois State 2, Saturday, March 30, Dillon Tennis Center</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/30/huskers-take-two-wins-in-doubleheader-at-home">#65
Nebraska 6, Wisconsin 1, Saturday, March 30, Dillon Tennis Center</a>Women’s
Tennis (10-7, 1-5 Big Ten)<a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/31/huskers-drop-match-to-no-29-wisconsin">#29
Wisconsin 4, Nebraska 0, Sunday, March 31, Madison, Wis.</a><a href="https://huskers.com/news/2024/03/29/huskers-claim-two-tiebreaks-in-4-3-win-at-minnesota">Nebraska
4, Minnesota 3, Friday, March 29, Minneapolis, Minn.</a>

This week in Nebraska Athletics & Husker Highlights

The Nebraska softball team remained
undefeated in Big Ten play with a 5-4 come-from-behind victory in nine innings
Sunday at Wisconsin.

Brooke Andrews keyed the comeback
with the game-tying RBI in the seventh inning and the game-winning RBI in the
ninth.

Nebraska led 3-2 before Wisconsin
hit leadoff home runs in the fifth and sixth innings to take a 4-3 lead. The
Huskers forced extra innings when Brooke Andrews delivered a sacrifice fly in
the top of the seventh. Then in the ninth, Brooke came through again with an
RBI double that scored her sister Billie with the winning run.

Brooke finished 2-for-4 with two of
Nebraska's four RBIs while Billie scored three of the Huskers' five runs. Ava
Bredwell (2-for-4 with two doubles) and Caitlynn Neal (2-for-2 with a double)
also produced multiple hits for the Big Red.

The win was Nebraska's 10th victory
in its past 11 games. The Huskers moved to 21-13 on the season and stayed
perfect in Big Ten play with a 5-0 record.

Kaylin Kinney started and then
re-entered the game to earn the win in relief. Kinney (14-8) pitched a total of
6.0 innings on Sunday, allowing two runs (one earned) while tying her season
high with five strikeouts. Kinney gave up both runs in her first 4.0 innings.
She then re-entered the game in the bottom of the eighth and did not allow a
run over her final 2.0 innings.

Emmerson Cope gave up two runs on
one hit in 2.2 innings of relief. Sarah Harness faced three batters in the
fifth inning and was charged with one run in one-third of an inning.

Tessa Magnanimo (5-9) took the loss
for Wisconsin, which fell to 12-20 on the season and 1-5 in Big Ten play.

Nebraska grabbed a 2-0 lead in the
top of the first inning. Billie Andrews led off with a walk, Brooke Andrews
singled and Bredwell put down a successful sacrifice bunt to put Huskers on
second and third with one out. Samantha Bland then hit a chopper back to the
circle and pitcher Gabi Salo threw wildly to home plate, allowing both Andrews
sisters to score and give Nebraska a 2-0 lead.

Wisconsin scored twice in the
bottom of the second inning to tie the game. A one-out triple and an RBI single
cut the lead to 2-1. After recording the second out, a single and an error
loaded the bases and extended the inning. A bases-loaded walk then brought home
the tying run.

Nebraska came back to regain the
lead in the top of the third inning. Bredwell led off with a double and scored
on a one-out single from Sydney Gray to give the Huskers a 3-2 lead.

Wisconsin tied the game in the
bottom of the fifth when Ava Kuszak hit a leadoff home run.&nbsp;

Another leadoff home run in the
bottom of the sixth from Peyton Bannon gave Wisconsin a 4-3 lead.

Billie Andrews then led off the top
of the seventh with a triple down the right field line. She scored one batter
later on a sacrifice fly from her older sister Brooke.

After Wisconsin stranded a runner
in the bottom of the seventh, Neal reached on a two-out double in the top of
the eighth inning. Pinch hitter Malia Thoms then lined a ball to deep center
but Bannon made a leaping grab to end the inning.

In the bottom of the eighth, a
leadoff walk and a one-out double put Badgers on second and third. But Kinney
escaped the jam with a strikeout and a ground out.

In the top of the ninth, Billie
Andrews reached on a one-out single before Brooke hit an RBI double off the
very top of the wall in center that scored Billie with the go-ahead run.

In the bottom of the ninth, Kinney
quickly retired the first two batters before a pair of two-out singles put the
tying and go-ahead runs on base. But Kinney came back with a three-pitch
strikeout to wrap up the victory.

Nebraska returns home to host five
games at Bowlin Stadium next week beginning with a Tuesday matchup at 5 p.m.
against Kansas in the Huskers' final non-conference game of the regular season.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska softball team remained
undefeated in Big Ten play with a 5-4 come-from-behind victory in nine innings
Sunday at Wisconsin.Brooke Andrews keyed the comeback
with the game-tying RBI in the seventh inning and the game-winning RBI in the
ninth.Nebraska led 3-2 before Wisconsin
hit leadoff home runs in the fifth and sixth innings to take a 4-3 lead. The
Huskers forced extra innings when Brooke Andrews delivered a sacrifice fly in
the top of the seventh. Then in the ninth, Brooke came through again with an
RBI double that scored her sister Billie with the winning run.Brooke finished 2-for-4 with two of
Nebraska's four RBIs while Billie scored three of the Huskers' five runs. Ava
Bredwell (2-for-4 with two doubles) and Caitlynn Neal (2-for-2 with a double)
also produced multiple hits for the Big Red.The win was Nebraska's 10th victory
in its past 11 games. The Huskers moved to 21-13 on the season and stayed
perfect in Big Ten play with a 5-0 record.Kaylin Kinney started and then
re-entered the game to earn the win in relief. Kinney (14-8) pitched a total of
6.0 innings on Sunday, allowing two runs (one earned) while tying her season
high with five strikeouts. Kinney gave up both runs in her first 4.0 innings.
She then re-entered the game in the bottom of the eighth and did not allow a
run over her final 2.0 innings.Emmerson Cope gave up two runs on
one hit in 2.2 innings of relief. Sarah Harness faced three batters in the
fifth inning and was charged with one run in one-third of an inning.Tessa Magnanimo (5-9) took the loss
for Wisconsin, which fell to 12-20 on the season and 1-5 in Big Ten play.Nebraska grabbed a 2-0 lead in the
top of the first inning. Billie Andrews led off with a walk, Brooke Andrews
singled and Bredwell put down a successful sacrifice bunt to put Huskers on
second and third with one out. Samantha Bland then hit a chopper back to the
circle and pitcher Gabi Salo threw wildly to home plate, allowing both Andrews
sisters to score and give Nebraska a 2-0 lead.Wisconsin scored twice in the
bottom of the second inning to tie the game. A one-out triple and an RBI single
cut the lead to 2-1. After recording the second out, a single and an error
loaded the bases and extended the inning. A bases-loaded walk then brought home
the tying run.Nebraska came back to regain the
lead in the top of the third inning. Bredwell led off with a double and scored
on a one-out single from Sydney Gray to give the Huskers a 3-2 lead.Wisconsin tied the game in the
bottom of the fifth when Ava Kuszak hit a leadoff home run.&nbsp;Another leadoff home run in the
bottom of the sixth from Peyton Bannon gave Wisconsin a 4-3 lead.Billie Andrews then led off the top
of the seventh with a triple down the right field line. She scored one batter
later on a sacrifice fly from her older sister Brooke.After Wisconsin stranded a runner
in the bottom of the seventh, Neal reached on a two-out double in the top of
the eighth inning. Pinch hitter Malia Thoms then lined a ball to deep center
but Bannon made a leaping grab to end the inning.In the bottom of the eighth, a
leadoff walk and a one-out double put Badgers on second and third. But Kinney
escaped the jam with a strikeout and a ground out.In the top of the ninth, Billie
Andrews reached on a one-out single before Brooke hit an RBI double off the
very top of the wall in center that scored Billie with the go-ahead run.In the bottom of the ninth, Kinney
quickly retired the first two batters before a pair of two-out singles put the
tying and go-ahead runs on base. But Kinney came back with a three-pitch
strikeout to wrap up the victory.Nebraska returns home to host five
games at Bowlin Stadium next week beginning with a Tuesday matchup at 5 p.m.
against Kansas in the Huskers' final non-conference game of the regular season.Post-Game Notes<ul>
 <li>Nebraska won
 its third straight extra-inning game to improve to 3-2 in extra-inning
 games this season.</li><li>The Huskers
 won when trailing after six innings for the fourth time this season.
 Entering the year, Nebraska had just three wins when trailing after six
 innings in the previous five seasons combined.</li><li>Ava Bredwell
 had two doubles in the game, her second game this season and third of her
 career with multiple doubles.</li><li>Billie
 Andrews had a triple in the seventh inning. That marked the 93rd
 extra-base hit of her career, tying her with Jennifer Lizama for the
 fourth-most extra-base hits in Husker history.&nbsp;</li><li>The triple
 also gave Billie Andrews 423 total bases in her career, tied for the
 third-highest total in Husker history.</li><li>Sydney Gray
 had a hit and an RBI Sunday as she finished the three-game series 8-for-12
 with one double, two homers and seven RBIs.</li><li>Kaylin
 Kinney gave up a run with one out in the second inning, marking the first
 run she had allowed in 8.1 innings in the series.</li><li>In the
 series, Kinney went 2-0 with one save and a 0.54 ERA in 13.0 innings.</li>
 </ul>

Huskers rally to sweep Badgers

Associated Press/North Platte Post

CANTON, Ohio — The Pro Football Hall of Fame has honored longtime NFL assistant coach Monte Kiffin and more than a dozen others as part of its Awards for Excellence program.&nbsp;

Kiffin was born in Lexington on February 29th, 1940, and graduated from Lexington High School in 1958. After high school, Kiffin played football for the University of Nebraska from 1959-1963 and was drafted in the 1964 NFL draft by the Minnestoa Vikings in the 15th round. &nbsp;

Following a short professional football career, Kiffin would get into coaching as a graduate assistant for the University of Nebraska under head coach Bob Daveney in 1966. Kiffin would make a name for himself in the college realm starting off as a defensive line coach and worked his way up to defensive coordinator and had a stint as head coach for North Carolina State from 1980-1982. He was the defensive line coach for the 1970 and 1971 Nebraska Cornhusker national championship teams.&nbsp;

In 1983, Kiffin made his first appearance in the NFL as the linebacker coach for the Green Bay Packers. From 1983-1995, Kiffin would make stops around the league coaching numerous teams. 1996 was when Kiffin would join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as Defensive Coordinator and would bloom into one of the best Defensive Coordinators in the NFL.&nbsp;

Kiffin was one of the architects of Tampa Bay's stellar defense that won the Super Bowl in the 2002, teaming with Tony Dungy to build the vaunted “Tampa 2" scheme that led the Buccaneers to great success and was copied by several other teams around the league.&nbsp;

Kiffin spent 13 of his 16 seasons as an NFL defensive coordinator with the Bucs, also having one-year stints as coordinator for Minnesota, New Orleans and Dallas.&nbsp;

Heading into the 2024 college football season this fall, 84-year-old Monte Kiffin is serving as an analyst for Ole Miss and works under his son head coach Lane Kiffin.&nbsp;

Kiffin is a member of the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame and in 2021 became the 14th member to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1711987225414.jpeg" alt="Monte Kiffin (Ole Miss Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Monte Kiffin (Ole Miss Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Associated Press/North Platte PostCANTON, Ohio — The Pro Football Hall of Fame has honored longtime NFL assistant coach Monte Kiffin and more than a dozen others as part of its Awards for Excellence program.&nbsp;Kiffin was born in Lexington on February 29th, 1940, and graduated from Lexington High School in 1958. After high school, Kiffin played football for the University of Nebraska from 1959-1963 and was drafted in the 1964 NFL draft by the Minnestoa Vikings in the 15th round. &nbsp;Following a short professional football career, Kiffin would get into coaching as a graduate assistant for the University of Nebraska under head coach Bob Daveney in 1966. Kiffin would make a name for himself in the college realm starting off as a defensive line coach and worked his way up to defensive coordinator and had a stint as head coach for North Carolina State from 1980-1982. He was the defensive line coach for the 1970 and 1971 Nebraska Cornhusker national championship teams.&nbsp;In 1983, Kiffin made his first appearance in the NFL as the linebacker coach for the Green Bay Packers. From 1983-1995, Kiffin would make stops around the league coaching numerous teams. 1996 was when Kiffin would join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as Defensive Coordinator and would bloom into one of the best Defensive Coordinators in the NFL.&nbsp;Kiffin was one of the architects of Tampa Bay's stellar defense that won the Super Bowl in the 2002, teaming with Tony Dungy to build the vaunted “Tampa 2" scheme that led the Buccaneers to great success and was copied by several other teams around the league.&nbsp;Kiffin spent 13 of his 16 seasons as an NFL defensive coordinator with the Bucs, also having one-year stints as coordinator for Minnesota, New Orleans and Dallas.&nbsp;Heading into the 2024 college football season this fall, 84-year-old Monte Kiffin is serving as an analyst for Ole Miss and works under his son head coach Lane Kiffin.&nbsp;Kiffin is a member of the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame and in 2021 became the 14th member to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor.

Lexington native Monte Kiffin honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame

By: John Murphy CSC Sports Information Director

CHADRON, Neb. -- Despite Mackenzi Kroll hitting three home runs in Friday's game one, the Colorado Christian Cougars defeated the Chadron State Eagles in the two team's double header, winning game one 10-8 before having an 8-0 victory in five innings during game two.

The loss drops Chadron State to 5-29 overall and 5-19 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play. #8 CCU improves to 33-4 overall and 25-3 in the conference.

In the 10-8 loss in game one, the Eagles scored the second most runs by a team in a game against the Cougars this season. The only team to score more was St. Mary's, who defeated Colorado Christian 12-10. CSC also hit a new season high with five home runs.

Chadron State built an early 4-0 lead after two innings. Lauren Zimmerman, a junior from Reno, Nevada, smashed a two-run homer in the bottom of the first to begin the games scoring.

Kroll, a senior from Brighton, Colorado, added her first homer of the game in the inning, extending CSC's lead to 3-0.

In the bottom of the second, Jorja Sierra, a freshman from Morrison, Colorado, extended the Eagles lead to 4-0 with her first collegiate home run.

The Cougars tied the game in the top of the third inning with a solo homer, a two-run homer and an RBI-double.

It did not take long for the Eagles to respond to the Cougars run. In the bottom of the third, Kroll launched her second homer of the day, this time scoring two runs to give CSC a 6-4 lead.

Colorado Christian regained the lead in the top of the fourth when they scored their final six runs. The visitors had six runs with five hits in the inning while the CSC defense recorded three errors.

Trailing 10-6, Kroll hit her third home run of the game in the bottom of the fifth, making the score 10-7.

A deep fly ball by Ashland Baca scored Brady Lacuomer in the bottom of the seventh but runners were left stranded on first and second, ending the game 10-8 in CCU's favor.

Tori Haug, a senior from Commerce City, Colorado, dropped to 3-11 on the season in 3.1 innings of work. Kenzi Garner, a junior from Broomfield, Colorado, pitched 3.2 innings of relief, allowing only two hits and one run.

Kalia Eastburn improved to 6-1 overall in 4.1 innings for CCU.

The Eagles finished the game with eight runs and hits with three errors. The Cougars recorded ten runs on 11 hits.

In CCU's 8-0, five inning game two victory, they scored one run in the first and second inning before adding six in the top of the sixth.

An RBI single scored one in the top of the first before the lone error of the game by the CSC defense allowed a run in the top of the second.

With runners on the corners in the top of the fourth, Cheyenne Stark launched the first of three homers in four at bats for CCU.

Stark's homer put the guests up 5-0 before a solo homer added another run. The final two runs were scored after a batter was hit by a pitch and brough home by a Kenzie Middleton homer to left field.

The Eagles left a runner stranded at third in the bottom of the fourth inning and were unable to get a hit in the final half inning.

Brooklyn Levin, a freshman from Littleton, Colorado, received the loss in 3.2 innings of work. Garner pitched 1.1 innings of relief.

Chadron State finished the game with five hits and one error, compared to its opponents eight runs on eight hits.

After the Easter holiday, Chadron State will hit the road to Grand Junction, Colorado for four games against the 27-7 Colorado Mesa Mavericks on Saturday and Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711811490043.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: John Murphy CSC Sports Information DirectorCHADRON, Neb. -- Despite Mackenzi Kroll hitting three home runs in Friday's game one, the Colorado Christian Cougars defeated the Chadron State Eagles in the two team's double header, winning game one 10-8 before having an 8-0 victory in five innings during game two.The loss drops Chadron State to 5-29 overall and 5-19 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play. #8 CCU improves to 33-4 overall and 25-3 in the conference.In the 10-8 loss in game one, the Eagles scored the second most runs by a team in a game against the Cougars this season. The only team to score more was St. Mary's, who defeated Colorado Christian 12-10. CSC also hit a new season high with five home runs.Chadron State built an early 4-0 lead after two innings. Lauren Zimmerman, a junior from Reno, Nevada, smashed a two-run homer in the bottom of the first to begin the games scoring.Kroll, a senior from Brighton, Colorado, added her first homer of the game in the inning, extending CSC's lead to 3-0.In the bottom of the second, Jorja Sierra, a freshman from Morrison, Colorado, extended the Eagles lead to 4-0 with her first collegiate home run.The Cougars tied the game in the top of the third inning with a solo homer, a two-run homer and an RBI-double.It did not take long for the Eagles to respond to the Cougars run. In the bottom of the third, Kroll launched her second homer of the day, this time scoring two runs to give CSC a 6-4 lead.Colorado Christian regained the lead in the top of the fourth when they scored their final six runs. The visitors had six runs with five hits in the inning while the CSC defense recorded three errors.Trailing 10-6, Kroll hit her third home run of the game in the bottom of the fifth, making the score 10-7.A deep fly ball by Ashland Baca scored Brady Lacuomer in the bottom of the seventh but runners were left stranded on first and second, ending the game 10-8 in CCU's favor.Tori Haug, a senior from Commerce City, Colorado, dropped to 3-11 on the season in 3.1 innings of work. Kenzi Garner, a junior from Broomfield, Colorado, pitched 3.2 innings of relief, allowing only two hits and one run.Kalia Eastburn improved to 6-1 overall in 4.1 innings for CCU.The Eagles finished the game with eight runs and hits with three errors. The Cougars recorded ten runs on 11 hits.In CCU's 8-0, five inning game two victory, they scored one run in the first and second inning before adding six in the top of the sixth.An RBI single scored one in the top of the first before the lone error of the game by the CSC defense allowed a run in the top of the second.With runners on the corners in the top of the fourth, Cheyenne Stark launched the first of three homers in four at bats for CCU.Stark's homer put the guests up 5-0 before a solo homer added another run. The final two runs were scored after a batter was hit by a pitch and brough home by a Kenzie Middleton homer to left field.The Eagles left a runner stranded at third in the bottom of the fourth inning and were unable to get a hit in the final half inning.Brooklyn Levin, a freshman from Littleton, Colorado, received the loss in 3.2 innings of work. Garner pitched 1.1 innings of relief.Chadron State finished the game with five hits and one error, compared to its opponents eight runs on eight hits.After the Easter holiday, Chadron State will hit the road to Grand Junction, Colorado for four games against the 27-7 Colorado Mesa Mavericks on Saturday and Sunday.

Kroll wallops three homers for Chadron State, but CCU gets series sweep

PHOENIX (AP) — Alek Thomas hit a three-run homer, Merrill Kelly threw 6 2/3 quality innings and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Colorado Rockies 7-3 on Friday night.

Thomas had his big moment in the sixth, connecting on a slider up in the zone from Jake Bird, launching it deep into the right-field seats for a 7-1 lead. The Diamondbacks had 14 hits on Friday, one night after having 18 hits in their season-opening win.

“It's definitely contagious,” Thomas said. “You definitely want to be a part of it. All of these guys, having good at-bats, putting good swings on balls, it's been pretty fun these past few days.”

Joc Pederson — playing his first game with the D-backs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/diamondbacks-joc-pederson-40821573955dc9145375f809a8b46ada">after signing a $9.5 million, one-year deal this offseason</a>&nbsp;— had four hits, including a double. Ketel Marte added three hits, a walk and a stolen base.

Pederson had the first four-hit debut in franchise history. Marte is the first to have back-to-back, three-hit games to start the season.

Kelly (1-0) cruised for most the night, giving up one run on three hits while striking out eight. The right-hander has thrown at least five innings in 30 straight regular-season outings, which ranks second among current MLB pitchers, behind Mitch Keller's 32-game streak.

“It was fun to be out there,” Kelly said. “Fun to get the first one under your belt. Felt good. Glad we're able to get off to the start we have so far this year.”

Kelly's performance was reminiscent of the last time he was on the mound in Game 2 of the World Series. He threw seven brilliant innings in that game against the Texas Rangers, giving up one run and striking nine, leading the D-backs to their only win in the Fall Classic.

The Diamondbacks got their scoring started with back-to-back solo homers in the first from Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Christian Walker. It was Gurriel's second homer of the season — he also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rockies-diamondbacks-score-0e47b690616daa31301c8fe420705dd8">went deep for a two-run homer in the D-backs' 16-1 win</a>&nbsp;in the opener.

Colorado's Elías Díaz hit a solo homer in the second to cut the D-backs' lead to 2-1. Charlie Blackmon had an RBI triple in the eighth and later scored on a wild pitch.

Cal Quantrill (0-1) gave up five runs on nine hits and a walk over five innings. Quantrill pitched the past 3 1/2 years for the Cleveland Guardians, but was traded to the Rockies during the offseason.

“He battled, he kept us in there,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “He just got outpitched by their guy. (Kelly) pitched really good.”

The Diamondbacks were presented their National League championship rings during a pregame ceremony. It has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/fans/2023-nl-championship-ring">41 diamonds around the logo</a>, signifying manager Torey Lovullo and team's 40-man roster, and also is personalized with each player's name.

The Diamondbacks will send left-hander Tommy Henry to the mound on Saturday night while the Rockies counter with lefty Austin Gomber.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711811301161.jpeg" alt="DIamondbacks" />
 <figcaption>DIamondbacks</figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — Alek Thomas hit a three-run homer, Merrill Kelly threw 6 2/3 quality innings and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Colorado Rockies 7-3 on Friday night.Thomas had his big moment in the sixth, connecting on a slider up in the zone from Jake Bird, launching it deep into the right-field seats for a 7-1 lead. The Diamondbacks had 14 hits on Friday, one night after having 18 hits in their season-opening win.“It's definitely contagious,” Thomas said. “You definitely want to be a part of it. All of these guys, having good at-bats, putting good swings on balls, it's been pretty fun these past few days.”Joc Pederson — playing his first game with the D-backs&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/diamondbacks-joc-pederson-40821573955dc9145375f809a8b46ada">after signing a $9.5 million, one-year deal this offseason</a>&nbsp;— had four hits, including a double. Ketel Marte added three hits, a walk and a stolen base.Pederson had the first four-hit debut in franchise history. Marte is the first to have back-to-back, three-hit games to start the season.Kelly (1-0) cruised for most the night, giving up one run on three hits while striking out eight. The right-hander has thrown at least five innings in 30 straight regular-season outings, which ranks second among current MLB pitchers, behind Mitch Keller's 32-game streak.“It was fun to be out there,” Kelly said. “Fun to get the first one under your belt. Felt good. Glad we're able to get off to the start we have so far this year.”Kelly's performance was reminiscent of the last time he was on the mound in Game 2 of the World Series. He threw seven brilliant innings in that game against the Texas Rangers, giving up one run and striking nine, leading the D-backs to their only win in the Fall Classic.The Diamondbacks got their scoring started with back-to-back solo homers in the first from Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Christian Walker. It was Gurriel's second homer of the season — he also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rockies-diamondbacks-score-0e47b690616daa31301c8fe420705dd8">went deep for a two-run homer in the D-backs' 16-1 win</a>&nbsp;in the opener.Colorado's Elías Díaz hit a solo homer in the second to cut the D-backs' lead to 2-1. Charlie Blackmon had an RBI triple in the eighth and later scored on a wild pitch.Cal Quantrill (0-1) gave up five runs on nine hits and a walk over five innings. Quantrill pitched the past 3 1/2 years for the Cleveland Guardians, but was traded to the Rockies during the offseason.“He battled, he kept us in there,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “He just got outpitched by their guy. (Kelly) pitched really good.”The Diamondbacks were presented their National League championship rings during a pregame ceremony. It has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/fans/2023-nl-championship-ring">41 diamonds around the logo</a>, signifying manager Torey Lovullo and team's 40-man roster, and also is personalized with each player's name.UP NEXTThe Diamondbacks will send left-hander Tommy Henry to the mound on Saturday night while the Rockies counter with lefty Austin Gomber.

Rockies rocked again in Arizona

The NFL has passed some significant rule changes for the upcoming season, which could end up down at the D2 college level someday and that would mean we'd see some wild new stuff at Elliott Field!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711638208283.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports DirectorThe NFL has passed some significant rule changes for the upcoming season, which could end up down at the D2 college level someday and that would mean we'd see some wild new stuff at Elliott Field!Special teams and kickoffs are always under the rule-making microscope and CSC Head Coach Jay Long offers up thoughts and insight into the inevitability of change to the game of football<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1786726699&color=%23791c37&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/jay-long-on-changes-happen-every-year" title="Jay Long - On Changes Happen Every Year" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jay Long - On Changes Happen Every Year</a></div></div>This fall in the pros kickoffs will look like the XFL model where the kicking team has its coverage unit lined up on the receiving team's 40 yard line. The return team will set up its blockers between the 30-35 yard lines.&nbsp; The league hopes the change will reduce injury risk as well as increase the amount of kickoff returns instead of touchbacks.Coach Long played a key role in kick coverage during his career and looks at the situation from both the old-school traditionalist view and through the lens of football's future.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1786722208&color=%23791c37&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/jay-long-on-new-kickoff-rules-in-nfl" title="Jay Long - On New Kickoff Rules In NFL" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Jay Long - On New Kickoff Rules In NFL</a></div></div>Long has been a part of committees that help consider and decide on rule changes in D2 football, and it typically takes some time before changes that happen above trickle down into the college game. Stay tuned, but it will all look "normal" for now when CSC kicks off the season against Nebraska-Kearney in August.Continue to check back with Panhandle Post, follow along on X @DMCbroadcasting and listen to my morning sports report updates on Double Q Country for more Eagle football spring coverage!