Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

McCook, Neb. – North Platte suffered its first Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference loss, falling to McCook Community College 41-36 at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center on Tuesday night.

Jada Grigsby led the Knights with nine points, while Dazjanae Greene grabbed 10 rebounds to accompany her six points in 34 minutes.

McCook jumped out to a 13-4 lead after one quarter behind nine points from Suzan Sisman. The deficit grew to 19-4 in the opening minutes of the second quarter, before a 6-0 spurt helped narrow the margin to nine at the halftime break.

North Platte erased the deficit in the third quarter, while holding McCook to just four points in the frame. A 6-0 run to open the quarter trimmed the margin to 19-16 after the layup by Samantha Riggles. Hanne Alvarez Verdaguer halted the run momentarily, but a 7-2 run evened the game as teams headed into the final quarter.

Mariah Gardner opened the final quarter with a jumper in transition to give the Knights their first lead of game. North Platte extended their lead to four inside the final four minutes, but McCook countered to knot the game up once again with 1:14 remaining.

Grigsby connected on a deep two to break the deadlock inside the final minute, but Gemma Gruettner Bacoul responded with a tightly contested three to put the home team out front for the final time. McCook earned two trips to the free throw line in the closing seconds, knocking down all four attempts to put the game away.

Knights (12-9, 2-1 NCCAC) will open the month of February on the road against Lamar Community College. Tip is set for 3 p.m. at the Wellness Center in Lamar, Colo.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsMcCook, Neb. – North Platte suffered its first Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference loss, falling to McCook Community College 41-36 at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center on Tuesday night.Jada Grigsby led the Knights with nine points, while Dazjanae Greene grabbed 10 rebounds to accompany her six points in 34 minutes.McCook jumped out to a 13-4 lead after one quarter behind nine points from Suzan Sisman. The deficit grew to 19-4 in the opening minutes of the second quarter, before a 6-0 spurt helped narrow the margin to nine at the halftime break.North Platte erased the deficit in the third quarter, while holding McCook to just four points in the frame. A 6-0 run to open the quarter trimmed the margin to 19-16 after the layup by Samantha Riggles. Hanne Alvarez Verdaguer halted the run momentarily, but a 7-2 run evened the game as teams headed into the final quarter.Mariah Gardner opened the final quarter with a jumper in transition to give the Knights their first lead of game. North Platte extended their lead to four inside the final four minutes, but McCook countered to knot the game up once again with 1:14 remaining.Grigsby connected on a deep two to break the deadlock inside the final minute, but Gemma Gruettner Bacoul responded with a tightly contested three to put the home team out front for the final time. McCook earned two trips to the free throw line in the closing seconds, knocking down all four attempts to put the game away.Knights (12-9, 2-1 NCCAC) will open the month of February on the road against Lamar Community College. Tip is set for 3 p.m. at the Wellness Center in Lamar, Colo.

Late three lifts McCook past North Platte

McCook, Neb. – North Platte erupts for 51 second half points in a 93-65 win over McCook Community College on Tuesday night at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center.

Davion Evans led six North Platte players in double figures with 20 points, while Emmanuel Oladeru and Michael Cooper combined for 32 points in the win.

The Knights shot 51.5 percent (34-66) from the field, including 21-of-26 from the free throw line.

North Platte trailed 13-4 before a 9-2 run evened the game at 15-15 with 12:06 to play in the opening half. McCook rebuilt a nine-point advantage with 10:27 remaining, but an 11-3 run over the next 4:10 cut the margin to 27-26. The remainder of the half would be tightly contested until a 14-2 run helped the Knights carry a 42-33 lead into the halftime break.

North Platte never relinquished their lead in the second half, as they stretched their lead to 68-47 on a baseline jumper from Landon Broer with 10:55 to play. The Knights continued to shoot lights out down the stretch of the second half to snap a two-game losing streak.

North Platte (10-10, 2-4 Region IX South) returns to Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference action on Friday against Southeast Community College. Tip is set for 7 p.m. in Lincoln.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsMcCook, Neb. – North Platte erupts for 51 second half points in a 93-65 win over McCook Community College on Tuesday night at the Peter and Dolores Graff Events Center.Davion Evans led six North Platte players in double figures with 20 points, while Emmanuel Oladeru and Michael Cooper combined for 32 points in the win.The Knights shot 51.5 percent (34-66) from the field, including 21-of-26 from the free throw line.North Platte trailed 13-4 before a 9-2 run evened the game at 15-15 with 12:06 to play in the opening half. McCook rebuilt a nine-point advantage with 10:27 remaining, but an 11-3 run over the next 4:10 cut the margin to 27-26. The remainder of the half would be tightly contested until a 14-2 run helped the Knights carry a 42-33 lead into the halftime break.North Platte never relinquished their lead in the second half, as they stretched their lead to 68-47 on a baseline jumper from Landon Broer with 10:55 to play. The Knights continued to shoot lights out down the stretch of the second half to snap a two-game losing streak.North Platte (10-10, 2-4 Region IX South) returns to Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference action on Friday against Southeast Community College. Tip is set for 7 p.m. in Lincoln.

Big second half leads Knights to win

High school hoops on Flatrock 100.7 this evening as the Maxwell Wildcats welcome the Perkins County Plainsmen to town. Tonight's doubleheader will be on Flatrock 100.7 with Kwik Stop Pregame coverage set to begin. around 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT.

Tonight's doubleheader begins with the girls matchup. Maxwell heads into this game 6-10 record and riding on a two-game losing streak. Perkins County is 10-8 on the season and split their games last week.

In the boys game, the Wildcats are 4-12 on the season and won both of their game last week. On the other side, Perkins County is 13-5 and are riding on a three-game winning streak.

Tonight's games will be live on Flatrock 100.7 with Canon Rath on the call. Kwik Stop Pregame coverage set begin at 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT for the girls matchup. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. The boys will follow 20 minutes after the girls game. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">click here</a> to listen online.

Sandhills PostHigh school hoops on Flatrock 100.7 this evening as the Maxwell Wildcats welcome the Perkins County Plainsmen to town. Tonight's doubleheader will be on Flatrock 100.7 with Kwik Stop Pregame coverage set to begin. around 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT.Tonight's doubleheader begins with the girls matchup. Maxwell heads into this game 6-10 record and riding on a two-game losing streak. Perkins County is 10-8 on the season and split their games last week.In the boys game, the Wildcats are 4-12 on the season and won both of their game last week. On the other side, Perkins County is 13-5 and are riding on a three-game winning streak.Tonight's games will be live on Flatrock 100.7 with Canon Rath on the call. Kwik Stop Pregame coverage set begin at 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT for the girls matchup. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. The boys will follow 20 minutes after the girls game. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">click here</a> to listen online.

Maxwell/Perkins County radio coverage this evening

KEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm has acquired goaltender Thatcher Bernstein, and a 2025 Phase I 10th&nbsp;Round Draft Pick from the Dubuque Fighting Saints in exchange for a 2025 Phase I Conditional 4th&nbsp;Round Draft Pick, and Future Considerations. Bernstein is a highly rated eligible prospect for the 2024 NHL Draft, and was the winning goaltender for Team White in the recently played 2024 Chipotle All-American Game at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan.

Thatcher Bernstein, 17, of Boston, Massachusetts, was selected 72nd&nbsp;overall by Dubuque in the 5th&nbsp;Round of the 2022 USHL Phase I Draft. He appeared in ten games this season for the Fighting Saints, and posted an overall record of 5-4-0-0. Bernstein made his USHL debut with Dubuque on Saturday, September 24th, 2023, in the team’s 8-3 victory over the Muskegon Lumberjacks at the 2023 DICK’S Sporting Goods USHL Fall Classic at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. He made 24 saves on 27 shots to record his first career USHL victory in net. Bernstein was one of four goaltenders named to the rosters for the 2024 Chipotle All-American Game played on Monday, January 15th&nbsp;at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan. He made 15 saves on 17 shots and collected the win in goal for Team White in the event. Bernstein previously participated in the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and also the Under-17 and Under-16 Selects Player Development Camps for USA Hockey. Prior to his time in the USHL, Bernstein played for the Noble &amp; Greenough School (Prep, Dedham, Massachusetts), and Boston Jr. Eagles (AAA, Needham, Massachusetts). He is 6’4”, 210lbs, and previously announced a commitment to play collegiate hockey in the future at Harvard University.

In a corresponding roster move, goaltender Ivan Zhigalov has been dropped from the Storm’s roster.

“Firstly, we would like to thank Ivan Zhigalov for his effort and attitude the last few months. We wish him the best in the future. We are excited about the addition of Thatcher Bernstein, as we feel he is one of the premiere young goalies in our league. We feel we are getting a high character goaltender who will continue to improve and be an important part of this organization this year and next.” President of Hockey Operations/Head Coach Anthony Noreen

"We are excited to welcome Thatcher Bernstein to Kearney and the Tri-City Storm. Our staff and I have a strong familiarity and confidence in what we have seen in Thatcher's past performance at the prep school and AAA levels. We believe that once he is fully adjusted and comfortable with junior hockey and the USHL, we potentially have one of the top American goaltenders in his age range. We are hopeful that a change in scenery and working with our Goaltending Coach Matt Zaba, we can continue to help Thatcher's development and help him grow as a player and person during his time with us.”-&nbsp;General Manager Jason Koehler

Story by Tri-City CommunicationKEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm has acquired goaltender Thatcher Bernstein, and a 2025 Phase I 10th&nbsp;Round Draft Pick from the Dubuque Fighting Saints in exchange for a 2025 Phase I Conditional 4th&nbsp;Round Draft Pick, and Future Considerations. Bernstein is a highly rated eligible prospect for the 2024 NHL Draft, and was the winning goaltender for Team White in the recently played 2024 Chipotle All-American Game at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan.Thatcher Bernstein, 17, of Boston, Massachusetts, was selected 72nd&nbsp;overall by Dubuque in the 5th&nbsp;Round of the 2022 USHL Phase I Draft. He appeared in ten games this season for the Fighting Saints, and posted an overall record of 5-4-0-0. Bernstein made his USHL debut with Dubuque on Saturday, September 24th, 2023, in the team’s 8-3 victory over the Muskegon Lumberjacks at the 2023 DICK’S Sporting Goods USHL Fall Classic at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. He made 24 saves on 27 shots to record his first career USHL victory in net. Bernstein was one of four goaltenders named to the rosters for the 2024 Chipotle All-American Game played on Monday, January 15th&nbsp;at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan. He made 15 saves on 17 shots and collected the win in goal for Team White in the event. Bernstein previously participated in the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and also the Under-17 and Under-16 Selects Player Development Camps for USA Hockey. Prior to his time in the USHL, Bernstein played for the Noble &amp; Greenough School (Prep, Dedham, Massachusetts), and Boston Jr. Eagles (AAA, Needham, Massachusetts). He is 6’4”, 210lbs, and previously announced a commitment to play collegiate hockey in the future at Harvard University.In a corresponding roster move, goaltender Ivan Zhigalov has been dropped from the Storm’s roster.“Firstly, we would like to thank Ivan Zhigalov for his effort and attitude the last few months. We wish him the best in the future. We are excited about the addition of Thatcher Bernstein, as we feel he is one of the premiere young goalies in our league. We feel we are getting a high character goaltender who will continue to improve and be an important part of this organization this year and next.” President of Hockey Operations/Head Coach Anthony Noreen"We are excited to welcome Thatcher Bernstein to Kearney and the Tri-City Storm. Our staff and I have a strong familiarity and confidence in what we have seen in Thatcher's past performance at the prep school and AAA levels. We believe that once he is fully adjusted and comfortable with junior hockey and the USHL, we potentially have one of the top American goaltenders in his age range. We are hopeful that a change in scenery and working with our Goaltending Coach Matt Zaba, we can continue to help Thatcher's development and help him grow as a player and person during his time with us.”-&nbsp;General Manager Jason Koehler

Storm acquires goaltender Thatcher Bernstein

North Platte, NEB. - The Ogallala Indians are looking to clinch their 6th straight Soutwest Conference championship this afternoon when they battle Cozad at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT at the McDonald-Belton Gym at the North Platte Community College campus. Live coverage on Flatrock 100.7 this afternoon.&nbsp;

The Indians had a dominating victory over the Holdrege Duster 81-48. This was the second time these two teams have played each other this season. Leading the scoring for Ogallala was senior Caden Rezac who finished with 31 points, Jack Rezac had 15 and Sawyer Smith finished with 8. &nbsp;

Cozad, who trailed for most of the game, had a late push and defeated Gothenburg 46-41. The last time these two teams meet was at "The Barn" in Cozad on Jan. 5th where the Indians would win 60-52.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Join <a href="https://twitter.com/home" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a> on Flatrock 100.7 for the championship game. The Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin around 3:20pm MT/4:20pm CT with the tip off at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/" target="_blank">click here</a> to listen online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sandhills PostNorth Platte, NEB. - The Ogallala Indians are looking to clinch their 6th straight Soutwest Conference championship this afternoon when they battle Cozad at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT at the McDonald-Belton Gym at the North Platte Community College campus. Live coverage on Flatrock 100.7 this afternoon.&nbsp;The Indians had a dominating victory over the Holdrege Duster 81-48. This was the second time these two teams have played each other this season. Leading the scoring for Ogallala was senior Caden Rezac who finished with 31 points, Jack Rezac had 15 and Sawyer Smith finished with 8. &nbsp;Cozad, who trailed for most of the game, had a late push and defeated Gothenburg 46-41. The last time these two teams meet was at "The Barn" in Cozad on Jan. 5th where the Indians would win 60-52.&nbsp;&nbsp; Join <a href="https://twitter.com/home" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a> on Flatrock 100.7 for the championship game. The Kwik Stop pregame show is set to begin around 3:20pm MT/4:20pm CT with the tip off at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/" target="_blank">click here</a> to listen online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ogallala Southwest Conference Championship game radio coverage

OGALLALA - The 2nd round of the Southwest Conference basketball tournament takes place this after at the McDonald-Belton Gym at North Platte Community College. The winners bracket gets kicked off today when the #1 seed Ogallala Indians have a rematch with the #5 Holdrege Dusters.&nbsp;

The #1 Indians (16-1, #7 ranked in C-1) head into this contest on a four-game winning streak. In the opening round of the Southwest Conference tournament, they defeated Valentine 77-50. Holdrege (9-7) defeated Ainsworth in overtime 75-73 in overtime. These two teams met back on December 7th when the Indians traveled to Holdrege and won 73-46.&nbsp;

The winner of this afternoon matchup will play Saturday at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT for the boy's championship game. The other boy’s semi-final matchup features rivals Cozad and Gothenburg.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Join <a href="https://twitter.com/Canon_K9_Sports" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a>&nbsp;on Flatrock for all the action with the Kwik Stop pregame show beginning around 2:20pm MT/3:20pm CT. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:30pm MT/3:3opm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/" target="_blank">click here</a> to listen online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Sandhills PostOGALLALA - The 2nd round of the Southwest Conference basketball tournament takes place this after at the McDonald-Belton Gym at North Platte Community College. The winners bracket gets kicked off today when the #1 seed Ogallala Indians have a rematch with the #5 Holdrege Dusters.&nbsp;The #1 Indians (16-1, #7 ranked in C-1) head into this contest on a four-game winning streak. In the opening round of the Southwest Conference tournament, they defeated Valentine 77-50. Holdrege (9-7) defeated Ainsworth in overtime 75-73 in overtime. These two teams met back on December 7th when the Indians traveled to Holdrege and won 73-46.&nbsp;The winner of this afternoon matchup will play Saturday at 3:30pm MT/4:30pm CT for the boy's championship game. The other boy’s semi-final matchup features rivals Cozad and Gothenburg.&nbsp;&nbsp; Join <a href="https://twitter.com/Canon_K9_Sports" target="_blank">Canon Rath</a>&nbsp;on Flatrock for all the action with the Kwik Stop pregame show beginning around 2:20pm MT/3:20pm CT. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:30pm MT/3:3opm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/" target="_blank">click here</a> to listen online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ogallala boys basketball Southwest Conference radio coverage this afternoon

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706277992274.png" alt="'23-24 RPAC Girls BB Tourney Bracket (Semi-Finals)" />
 <figcaption>'23-24 RPAC Girls BB Tourney Bracket (Semi-Finals)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706107125885.png" alt="'23-24 RPAC Boys BB Tourney Bracket (Semi Finals)" />
 <figcaption>'23-24 RPAC Boys BB Tourney Bracket (Semi Finals)</figcaption>
 </figure>

Updated RPAC bracket for tonight's games

&nbsp; COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. –&nbsp;Chadron State College women's basketball head coach Travis Brewster has been suspended for three games due to CSC's forfeit against Adams State on Jan. 20 in Alamosa, Colo., the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) announced yesterday.

"The choice by the&nbsp;Chadron State women's basketball team to voluntarily forfeit the contest was unacceptable and contrary to the RMAC Philosophy Statement, Ethical Conduct Policy and spirit of the game. The decision was also wholly unfair to participating student-athletes. As a result,&nbsp;Chadron State head coach Travis Brewster shall be suspended for three games and the program shall be fined $5,000 for the violation. The RMAC Office would like to thank&nbsp;Chadron State administrators for their cooperation in this process.

Chadron State College accepts the RMAC's decision and will continue to fully cooperate with RMAC officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706200143574.png" alt="Chadron State Chicoine Center" />
 <figcaption>Chadron State Chicoine Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Chadron State Athletics&nbsp; COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. –&nbsp;Chadron State College women's basketball head coach Travis Brewster has been suspended for three games due to CSC's forfeit against Adams State on Jan. 20 in Alamosa, Colo., the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) announced yesterday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706200509669.jpeg" alt="Travis Brewster (Photo from Chadron State Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Travis Brewster (Photo from Chadron State Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>"The choice by the&nbsp;Chadron State women's basketball team to voluntarily forfeit the contest was unacceptable and contrary to the RMAC Philosophy Statement, Ethical Conduct Policy and spirit of the game. The decision was also wholly unfair to participating student-athletes. As a result,&nbsp;Chadron State head coach Travis Brewster shall be suspended for three games and the program shall be fined $5,000 for the violation. The RMAC Office would like to thank&nbsp;Chadron State administrators for their cooperation in this process.Chadron State College accepts the RMAC's decision and will continue to fully cooperate with RMAC officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The RMAC has issued a statement regarding the Adams State-Chadron State women&#39;s basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 20.<a href="https://t.co/tELIO9U12L">https://t.co/tELIO9U12L</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EverythingElevated?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EverythingElevated</a>&mdash; RMAC Sports (@RMAC_SPORTS) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMAC_SPORTS/status/1750292398239060002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Chadron State Women's Basketball Coach suspended three games

Story by Alliance Sports Communications

Alliance Sports announced its plans for an innovative, state-of-the-art soccer stadium for Union Omaha. Positioned as the centerpiece of an extensive $300 million, 18-acre mixed-use project along Abbott Drive, the construction of the stadium with hard cost of $60 million is poised to start construction in the Fall of 2024, with doors opening to the public in the Spring of 2026. This strategic initiative not only aims to invigorate economic growth but also contributes to the dynamic evolution of downtown Omaha. Additionally, the project is actively pursuing legislation inclusion in the Sports Arena Facility Financing Assistance Act, anticipating a cumulative support of $25 million for the stadium project over 20 years.

Fans on the street outside the proposed stadium

The key components of the initial development plan include:

“The development planned by Alliance Sports is another commitment we all have to downtown Omaha and our urban core,” said Mayor Jean Stothert. “It will create additional opportunities for business and talent recruitment, tourism, conventions and meeting bookings, and youth sports events, growing our reputation as a sports competition and event destination that promotes Omaha to a national audience.”

An economic impact study conducted in 2021 projected the stadium would have a $99 million impact on the State of Nebraska and $168 Million to the City of Omaha from the stadium alone. The surrounding development is expected to further contribute with a projected $200 million impact and the creation of 450 new jobs.

“This district will help add to the exciting development already happening in downtown Omaha,” said Gary Green, co-founder of Alliance Sports. “It falls in line with the Chamber’s Urban Core Strategic Plan for bringing economic development and jobs to the heart of the city and we are very excited to see it moving forward.”

Union Omaha is currently playing matches at Werner Park in Papillion, sharing the park with the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Having the new stadium will allow expansion of the sport of soccer with the future addition of a women’s soccer team and a youth academy.

“This project will move professional soccer forward in Omaha and across the state,” said Martie Cordaro, Union Omaha President. “We anticipate 150 to 200 events a year will take place in the district including 20+ Union Omaha pro soccer matches, 15+ women’s team soccer matches, 20+ high school/college soccer matches, and 100+ community events for everyone to enjoy.”

Alliance Sports invites residents and visitors alike to look forward to a dynamic district that not only enhances the sports and entertainment landscape but also brings about substantial economic benefits and job opportunities.

Alliance Sports, founded in 2008 by Gary Green and Larry Botel, owns and operates the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals; the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the San Francisco Giant’s Double-A affiliate; the Montgomery Biscuits, the Tampa Bay Rays’ Double-A affiliate; and Union Omaha, a USL League One team. Alliance Sports also owns the digital platform and publication Baseball America Magazine.

Story by Alliance Sports Communications<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">📍🏟️ Today, the Club announces plans for a 7,000-seat downtown stadium at Abbott Drive near the Missouri riverfront. Home to our men&#39;s and future women&#39;s teams, the development will also include retail, lodging &amp; outdoor entertainment. 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/S5AgGuoKjz">https://t.co/S5AgGuoKjz</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneMeansAll?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneMeansAll</a> <a href="https://t.co/BeiwPPluFm">pic.twitter.com/BeiwPPluFm</a>&mdash; Union Omaha (@Union_Omaha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Union_Omaha/status/1750550890740646034?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Alliance Sports announced its plans for an innovative, state-of-the-art soccer stadium for Union Omaha. Positioned as the centerpiece of an extensive $300 million, 18-acre mixed-use project along Abbott Drive, the construction of the stadium with hard cost of $60 million is poised to start construction in the Fall of 2024, with doors opening to the public in the Spring of 2026. This strategic initiative not only aims to invigorate economic growth but also contributes to the dynamic evolution of downtown Omaha. Additionally, the project is actively pursuing legislation inclusion in the Sports Arena Facility Financing Assistance Act, anticipating a cumulative support of $25 million for the stadium project over 20 years.<ul>
 <li>Aerial view of Abbot Drive site plan</li><li>Inside Union Omaha’s proposed new stadium</li><li>Entering the stadium at night</li><li>Fans on the street outside the proposed stadium</li><li>Aerial view of Abbot Drive site plan</li><li>Inside Union Omaha’s proposed new stadium</li>
 </ul>Fans on the street outside the proposed stadiumThe key components of the initial development plan include:<ul>
 <li>Soccer Stadium&nbsp;– A 7,000-seat soccer stadium serving as the new home for Union Omaha, Nebraska’s only professional soccer team. Plans include adding a women’s soccer team in the future.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Residential Units&nbsp;– Approximately 330 residential units, comprising a mix of apartments and townhomes, contributing to the urban living experience within the district.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Retail Space&nbsp;– A significant retail component of around 100,000 square feet, providing diverse shopping and dining options for residents and visitors.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Hotel&nbsp;– An approximately 140-key hotel, enhancing the area’s hospitality offerings and catering to the needs of the growing community.</li>
 </ul>“The development planned by Alliance Sports is another commitment we all have to downtown Omaha and our urban core,” said Mayor Jean Stothert. “It will create additional opportunities for business and talent recruitment, tourism, conventions and meeting bookings, and youth sports events, growing our reputation as a sports competition and event destination that promotes Omaha to a national audience.”An economic impact study conducted in 2021 projected the stadium would have a $99 million impact on the State of Nebraska and $168 Million to the City of Omaha from the stadium alone. The surrounding development is expected to further contribute with a projected $200 million impact and the creation of 450 new jobs.“This district will help add to the exciting development already happening in downtown Omaha,” said Gary Green, co-founder of Alliance Sports. “It falls in line with the Chamber’s Urban Core Strategic Plan for bringing economic development and jobs to the heart of the city and we are very excited to see it moving forward.”Union Omaha is currently playing matches at Werner Park in Papillion, sharing the park with the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. Having the new stadium will allow expansion of the sport of soccer with the future addition of a women’s soccer team and a youth academy.“This project will move professional soccer forward in Omaha and across the state,” said Martie Cordaro, Union Omaha President. “We anticipate 150 to 200 events a year will take place in the district including 20+ Union Omaha pro soccer matches, 15+ women’s team soccer matches, 20+ high school/college soccer matches, and 100+ community events for everyone to enjoy.”Alliance Sports invites residents and visitors alike to look forward to a dynamic district that not only enhances the sports and entertainment landscape but also brings about substantial economic benefits and job opportunities.About Alliance SportsAlliance Sports, founded in 2008 by Gary Green and Larry Botel, owns and operates the Omaha Storm Chasers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals; the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the San Francisco Giant’s Double-A affiliate; the Montgomery Biscuits, the Tampa Bay Rays’ Double-A affiliate; and Union Omaha, a USL League One team. Alliance Sports also owns the digital platform and publication Baseball America Magazine.

Alliance Sports announces vision for Union Omaha with cutting-edge stadium

Story by NU Athletic Communications

One of the top golfers from the state of Texas, Danica Lundgren signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Nebraska women's golf team on Wednesday, Jan. 24, becoming the fourth member of Coach Jeanne Sutherland's 2024 class.

Lundgren, a senior at Vandegrift High School in Austin, Texas, was a first-team Class 6A all-state selection as a junior in 2023, helping the Vipers to a Texas UIL 6A Championship. She also helped Vandegrift to state runner-up finishes in 2021 and 2022.

Lundgren finished fifth individually at the 2023 Texas UIL 6-A state championship with rounds of 71 and 72 to finish at 143 (-1) on the 5,876-yard layout at Legacy Hills Golf Course in Georgetown. It followed her sixth-place finish at the Region IV Championship, which included an opening-round 67 (-5) on a 5,881-yard layout at the Golf Club of Texas in San Antonio.

"Danica is the type of player we love at Nebraska," Sutherland said. "She's an excellent player, a strong student and a wonderful person. She has helped her team win a state championship, which makes her the third player in our class this season that can claim that honor. Both Eden (Lohrbach) and Bridget (Butler) also led their team to their respective state championships. Danica will not only fit in well, she will help us raise our level of play going forward."

Lundgren was named the Southern Texas PGA Junior Golfer of the Year in November of 2023. She compiled 55 victories with the STPGA since 2015, including a victory at the STPGA Prestige Tour Alamo City Shootout with rounds of 70 and 66 to finish at 136 (-8) at Brackenridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio in April of 2023. She will be formally presented with her Junior Golfer of the Year honor at the STPGA's 56th Annual Awards Banquet on Monday, Feb. 5.

As a young golfer, Lundgren tied for fourth in the Girls 10-11 Division at the 2018 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia.

"I chose Nebraska because they prioritize athletes by providing an abundance of resources to help them succeed. The amount of support given is like no other school," Lundgren said. "Both Coach Sutherland and Coach (Matt) Zedrick have plenty of experience as coaches and with the game, which was the driving factor in my decision. I wanted to play for a program where I could continue to grow and progress while expanding my knowledge of golf because there is always something new to learn.

Another factor that made me choose Nebraska was the competitiveness of the team. I needed a team with players that would push me to perform and truly earn my spot to play. I like to be surrounded by girls who have the same passion to work and play hard. I am 100 percent sure I found those people. Overall, I'm so honored to have this opportunity to play for Nebraska, and I can't wait to play the game I love as a Husker."

Lundgren joins a Husker incoming class that includes Eden Lohrbach (Ames, Iowa), Bridget Butler (Barrington, Illinois) and Olivia Lovegrove (Lincoln, Nebraska).

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsOne of the top golfers from the state of Texas, Danica Lundgren signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Nebraska women's golf team on Wednesday, Jan. 24, becoming the fourth member of Coach Jeanne Sutherland's 2024 class.Lundgren, a senior at Vandegrift High School in Austin, Texas, was a first-team Class 6A all-state selection as a junior in 2023, helping the Vipers to a Texas UIL 6A Championship. She also helped Vandegrift to state runner-up finishes in 2021 and 2022.Lundgren finished fifth individually at the 2023 Texas UIL 6-A state championship with rounds of 71 and 72 to finish at 143 (-1) on the 5,876-yard layout at Legacy Hills Golf Course in Georgetown. It followed her sixth-place finish at the Region IV Championship, which included an opening-round 67 (-5) on a 5,881-yard layout at the Golf Club of Texas in San Antonio."Danica is the type of player we love at Nebraska," Sutherland said. "She's an excellent player, a strong student and a wonderful person. She has helped her team win a state championship, which makes her the third player in our class this season that can claim that honor. Both Eden (Lohrbach) and Bridget (Butler) also led their team to their respective state championships. Danica will not only fit in well, she will help us raise our level of play going forward."Lundgren was named the Southern Texas PGA Junior Golfer of the Year in November of 2023. She compiled 55 victories with the STPGA since 2015, including a victory at the STPGA Prestige Tour Alamo City Shootout with rounds of 70 and 66 to finish at 136 (-8) at Brackenridge Park Golf Course in San Antonio in April of 2023. She will be formally presented with her Junior Golfer of the Year honor at the STPGA's 56th Annual Awards Banquet on Monday, Feb. 5.As a young golfer, Lundgren tied for fourth in the Girls 10-11 Division at the 2018 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia."I chose Nebraska because they prioritize athletes by providing an abundance of resources to help them succeed. The amount of support given is like no other school," Lundgren said. "Both Coach Sutherland and Coach (Matt) Zedrick have plenty of experience as coaches and with the game, which was the driving factor in my decision. I wanted to play for a program where I could continue to grow and progress while expanding my knowledge of golf because there is always something new to learn.Another factor that made me choose Nebraska was the competitiveness of the team. I needed a team with players that would push me to perform and truly earn my spot to play. I like to be surrounded by girls who have the same passion to work and play hard. I am 100 percent sure I found those people. Overall, I'm so honored to have this opportunity to play for Nebraska, and I can't wait to play the game I love as a Husker."Lundgren joins a Husker incoming class that includes Eden Lohrbach (Ames, Iowa), Bridget Butler (Barrington, Illinois) and Olivia Lovegrove (Lincoln, Nebraska).

Lundgren signs with Huskers as a top Texan

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communications&nbsp;

OMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;In the inaugural match of the Pro Volleyball Federation, the Omaha Supernovas fell to the Atlanta Vibe in a five-set thriller (24-26, 23-25, 25-17, 25-19, 13-15) Wednesday at the CHI Health Center. A record-breaking crowd of 11,624 packed the stands for Omaha and Atlanta becoming the biggest American crowd to attend a women’s professional volleyball match.&nbsp;

Four Supernovas reached double-digit kills on the night including a team-high 16 from outside hitter Brooke Nuneviller. Iowa native Jess Schaben-Lansman chipped in 13 while former Wisconsin middle blocker Danielle Hart slammed down 12 kills on a .360 hitting percentage.&nbsp;

Outside hitter Bethania de la Cruz recorded 10 kills while recording three aces from behind the service line. Supernovas middle blocker Tori Dixon led Omaha with five blocks while posting a .391 clip on nine kills.&nbsp;

Outside hitter Leah Edmond led the Vibe with a match-high 27 kills. Alli Linnehan added 13, and Grace Cleveland recorded 11. Atlanta had a balanced defensive effort with five players posting multiple blocks to outpace the Supernovas 15-13.&nbsp;

Set 1:&nbsp;The Vibe jumped out to an early 2-0 lead after back-to-back Linnehan kills. Atlanta expanded its lead behind a Tori Dilfer-Stringer service run early in the set. The Supernovas mounted a mid-set comeback and tied the set 24-24 after a missed serve from the Vibe. Edmond locked up the set two points later&nbsp;at 26-24. Nuneviller led the Supernovas with four kills in the first set and posted a .250 hitting percentage. Edmond led the Vibe with a .286 hitting percentage on six kills. The Vibe out blocked the Supernovas 5-1.&nbsp;

Set 2:&nbsp;After going back-and-forth early on, the Vibe went up 14-9 behind a Shelly Fanning service run. A kill by Nia Reed and a smartly placed ball by Natalia Valentín-Anderson brought the Supernovas within one (16-17). Bethania de la Cruz served up a critical ace for the Supernovas to cut the Vibe’s lead to 22-20. Another tough serve by de&nbsp;la Cruz led to an overpass kill by Dixon. Two Nuneviller kills tied the set 23-23, but a net violation on the Supernovas ended the set 25-23 in favor of the Vibe. Dixon tallied an impressive four blocks and added two kills for the Supernovas. Edmond once again led the Vibe with six kills.&nbsp;

Set 3:&nbsp;The Supernovas took their largest lead of the game after a 6-0 service run by Nuneviller. The Vibe fought back with a 3-0 run of their own that was ended by a Dixon kill on the slide to make it 13-9 Supernovas. The Supernovas controlled the rest of the set and won 25-17 on a Vibe service error. The middles came up big for the Supernovas in the third. Dixon posted a .400 hitting percentage and Hart tallied a .357 hitting percentage.&nbsp;

Set 4:&nbsp;A balanced offensive effort helped the Supernovas to capture a close fourth set. Six Supernovas registered kills, with Hart’s five kills on a .300 hitting percentage. An early service run put the Supernovas up 8-4. They held the lead for the rest of the set. A tough hit by Gina Mancuso-Prososki led to an overpass put away by Dixon to get the Supernovas to set point. Schaben-Lansman posted her third block of the night to finish the set 25-19 in favor of the Supernovas and send the match to a decisive fifth set.&nbsp;

Set 5:&nbsp;Dixon got the Supernovas on the board first with her ninth kill of the match. The two teams traded points early on in the set, but the Vibe went up 10-8 after an Edmond kill. The Supernovas logged two kills of their own to even it at 10-10. Putting the Supernovas up 13-10, de la Cruz went on a service run which included two aces. A block by the Vibe and three straight kills by Edmond sealed the 15-13 set five victory for the Vibe.&nbsp;

The Supernovas continue their homestand, facing the San Diego Mojo on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 6 p.m CST.&nbsp;

The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPBcD2ZulTOJLFGkUEjUHmC0I3NcNf9kqII_UoOVJ6pckw2an9fENEuPK4njgNz1uy0KGWRTNiQTh70YO8FFSr3AqgIB87BJ58FC_B5KsrfSmTaVQl6Ls4RCCEeeJ0Ci8l&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPdzOxQI1mDoXs99Tmqsc9-eMqb_orruqLqvGvWYwqx6UkLKY3O6m5cB6lzi8iOl8DZGRnk0SzTIwLgw2FdHB8zw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPa85B---mVkjwZJRsk3ww10jv-sP9ruG3ntK4nxs8JNhKHLKalKNkmHJoG-k2vxDemGGuqACxtT9pMfpL4BzzRg==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPQrcWaYCIhGhGPD-CnY1fGk09LLZdYjQuLUvrXAYm4kn2f7aCdTndpjMpNGe6XNkAkWI7pplXyiL7vFbEjgWtTw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPUp8dO3XilcEFGxVhUm7sWaCamwFKUPr5JTCUW32hGotylEJIMVILebYTX0nSAPgTztJb0CwTOsn288oOmAy8ew==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdP-00WI5x8EC2oH7Gld6ggLjE1Lt7sis6JPZyOsT4MYtOeDLL3hI7K74Kymaaq7POa-mWwlNMM1b15iMfN6COEkw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPw7iD-r5tjwXa92Tfz1cVmjZHjqqrAQht-Hv2lRqR0Kb78LJAICMtenTP46pn_SvLdkmwT-w_uhRL40lw-RxrGyRxilQpL6VZ&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be one of the top four squads in the standings that will compete for the Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced at a later date

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communications&nbsp;OMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;In the inaugural match of the Pro Volleyball Federation, the Omaha Supernovas fell to the Atlanta Vibe in a five-set thriller (24-26, 23-25, 25-17, 25-19, 13-15) Wednesday at the CHI Health Center. A record-breaking crowd of 11,624 packed the stands for Omaha and Atlanta becoming the biggest American crowd to attend a women’s professional volleyball match.&nbsp;Four Supernovas reached double-digit kills on the night including a team-high 16 from outside hitter Brooke Nuneviller. Iowa native Jess Schaben-Lansman chipped in 13 while former Wisconsin middle blocker Danielle Hart slammed down 12 kills on a .360 hitting percentage.&nbsp;Outside hitter Bethania de la Cruz recorded 10 kills while recording three aces from behind the service line. Supernovas middle blocker Tori Dixon led Omaha with five blocks while posting a .391 clip on nine kills.&nbsp;Outside hitter Leah Edmond led the Vibe with a match-high 27 kills. Alli Linnehan added 13, and Grace Cleveland recorded 11. Atlanta had a balanced defensive effort with five players posting multiple blocks to outpace the Supernovas 15-13.&nbsp;Set 1:&nbsp;The Vibe jumped out to an early 2-0 lead after back-to-back Linnehan kills. Atlanta expanded its lead behind a Tori Dilfer-Stringer service run early in the set. The Supernovas mounted a mid-set comeback and tied the set 24-24 after a missed serve from the Vibe. Edmond locked up the set two points later&nbsp;at 26-24. Nuneviller led the Supernovas with four kills in the first set and posted a .250 hitting percentage. Edmond led the Vibe with a .286 hitting percentage on six kills. The Vibe out blocked the Supernovas 5-1.&nbsp;Set 2:&nbsp;After going back-and-forth early on, the Vibe went up 14-9 behind a Shelly Fanning service run. A kill by Nia Reed and a smartly placed ball by Natalia Valentín-Anderson brought the Supernovas within one (16-17). Bethania de la Cruz served up a critical ace for the Supernovas to cut the Vibe’s lead to 22-20. Another tough serve by de&nbsp;la Cruz led to an overpass kill by Dixon. Two Nuneviller kills tied the set 23-23, but a net violation on the Supernovas ended the set 25-23 in favor of the Vibe. Dixon tallied an impressive four blocks and added two kills for the Supernovas. Edmond once again led the Vibe with six kills.&nbsp;Set 3:&nbsp;The Supernovas took their largest lead of the game after a 6-0 service run by Nuneviller. The Vibe fought back with a 3-0 run of their own that was ended by a Dixon kill on the slide to make it 13-9 Supernovas. The Supernovas controlled the rest of the set and won 25-17 on a Vibe service error. The middles came up big for the Supernovas in the third. Dixon posted a .400 hitting percentage and Hart tallied a .357 hitting percentage.&nbsp;Set 4:&nbsp;A balanced offensive effort helped the Supernovas to capture a close fourth set. Six Supernovas registered kills, with Hart’s five kills on a .300 hitting percentage. An early service run put the Supernovas up 8-4. They held the lead for the rest of the set. A tough hit by Gina Mancuso-Prososki led to an overpass put away by Dixon to get the Supernovas to set point. Schaben-Lansman posted her third block of the night to finish the set 25-19 in favor of the Supernovas and send the match to a decisive fifth set.&nbsp;Set 5:&nbsp;Dixon got the Supernovas on the board first with her ninth kill of the match. The two teams traded points early on in the set, but the Vibe went up 10-8 after an Edmond kill. The Supernovas logged two kills of their own to even it at 10-10. Putting the Supernovas up 13-10, de la Cruz went on a service run which included two aces. A block by the Vibe and three straight kills by Edmond sealed the 15-13 set five victory for the Vibe.&nbsp;The Supernovas continue their homestand, facing the San Diego Mojo on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 6 p.m CST.&nbsp;The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPBcD2ZulTOJLFGkUEjUHmC0I3NcNf9kqII_UoOVJ6pckw2an9fENEuPK4njgNz1uy0KGWRTNiQTh70YO8FFSr3AqgIB87BJ58FC_B5KsrfSmTaVQl6Ls4RCCEeeJ0Ci8l&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPdzOxQI1mDoXs99Tmqsc9-eMqb_orruqLqvGvWYwqx6UkLKY3O6m5cB6lzi8iOl8DZGRnk0SzTIwLgw2FdHB8zw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPa85B---mVkjwZJRsk3ww10jv-sP9ruG3ntK4nxs8JNhKHLKalKNkmHJoG-k2vxDemGGuqACxtT9pMfpL4BzzRg==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPQrcWaYCIhGhGPD-CnY1fGk09LLZdYjQuLUvrXAYm4kn2f7aCdTndpjMpNGe6XNkAkWI7pplXyiL7vFbEjgWtTw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPUp8dO3XilcEFGxVhUm7sWaCamwFKUPr5JTCUW32hGotylEJIMVILebYTX0nSAPgTztJb0CwTOsn288oOmAy8ew==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdP-00WI5x8EC2oH7Gld6ggLjE1Lt7sis6JPZyOsT4MYtOeDLL3hI7K74Kymaaq7POa-mWwlNMM1b15iMfN6COEkw==&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001yETr0CaU_TfOhjbifVoVUEokVlKMmA9R0mcUuGKnZV9cXu_g0eY0C_cF6gGirTdPw7iD-r5tjwXa92Tfz1cVmjZHjqqrAQht-Hv2lRqR0Kb78LJAICMtenTP46pn_SvLdkmwT-w_uhRL40lw-RxrGyRxilQpL6VZ&amp;c=pnTt_3t_ufy0N6WO9EJc3OcIztxdgjDCp1BIHZhQGfnofpVfaxTlGg==&amp;ch=y_uppW7rx4fZnOn2ZRdzofuN7peO8t_s7Wx1ZSCshtb2YyhHM94nFw==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be one of the top four squads in the standings that will compete for the Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced at a later date

Supernovas fall to Vibe in Five-Set thriller in front of record-breaking crowd  

Five players from Canada's 2018 world junior team have taken a leave of absence from their current clubs in recent days amid a report that five members of that team have been asked to surrender to police to face sexual assault charges.

NHL players Michael McLeod and Cal Foote of the New Jersey Devils,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flyers-carter-hart-0637fcbae8f8005147edb1582e5dc74d">Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers</a>, Dillon Dube of the Calgary Flames and former NHL player Alex Formenton, who is now with a team in Europe, all have been granted indefinite leave, with the absences announced over the past four days.

The Flyers and Swiss club HC Ambri-Piotta cited personal reasons for Hart's and Formenton's leaves; the Swiss club also said Formenton has been allowed to return to Canada. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dillon-dube-flames-leave-mental-health-367bd328d4f66cdb01481673969b7418">Flames cited Dube's mental health</a>, and the Devils did not give a reason Wednesday in announcing McLeod and Foote were on leave.

Messages left for the agents representing all five players and multiple messages sent to Hart's lawyer seeking comment were not immediately returned. The NHL Players' Association declined to comment.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-canada-hockey-ontario-sexual-assault-a2fcb263bfafd1c824a28b2f43caae21">London, Ontario, police launched an investigation</a>&nbsp;in 2022 after word emerged that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-canada-lawsuits-sexual-assault-9e81b3ec0df1fa23ce7a69f8e630bfaf">Hockey Canada had settled</a>&nbsp;a lawsuit with a woman who said she was sexually assaulted by eight members of that gold medal-winning team at a gala. The Globe &amp; Mail, citing unnamed sources, reported Wednesday that five players from that team were asked to surrender to police in the city halfway between Toronto and Detroit to face charges of sexual assault.

A spokesperson for London Police would not confirm the report when contacted by The Associated Press. “When there is an update to provide, we will share with media outlets,” Sgt. Sandasha Bough said Wednesday.

London Police announced Wednesday they would be holding a news conference on Feb. 5 to share further details “in relation to a sexual assault investigation dating back to 2018.”

Earlier in the day, Flyers general manager Daniel Briere opened his midseason state-of-the-organization news conference by saying: "We are aware of this morning’s press reports on a very serious matter. We will respond appropriately when the outcomes of the investigations are made public.

“The NHL has been very clear that teams should refer all investigation-related questions to them. In the meantime, members of the organization, including Flyers players, will not be commenting any further. That's all we can say at the moment, unfortunately."

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-los-angeles-montreal-94e7a3a44b7bd4a571e0795cb9dc6860">The NHL opened its own investigation</a>&nbsp;in 2022 and pledged to make those findings public.

Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly told The Associated Press by email Wednesday the league would issue a statement when it is appropriate, adding there's nothing more he could currently say. At the Stanley Cup Final in June, Daly said an independent investigator had completed work and he expected a report by midsummer that the league would then review.

“We have been in contact with the London police, continue to want to be in contact with them, make sure that there’s visibility with respect to what our process is,” Daly said June 3. “And to the extent we can understand what theirs is, that would be the goal. And then I can’t prejudge what happens from there."

The Flyers announced Hart's leave of absence Tuesday in the aftermath of the 25-year-old coming off one of his worst starts of an otherwise strong season when he allowed five goals on 15 shots in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/avalanche-flyers-score-nathan-mackinnon-bb70924626fd843241920f0c09cbb327">a loss to Colorado</a>&nbsp;before being pulled. Briere said he did not know if the situation contributed to Hart's recent play in any way.

“I really can’t tell because we don’t know anything,” Briere said. “We’re not aware of anything. I think there’s a lot of speculation. That’s all we know.”

Asked after practice in Newark, New Jersey, if the absences of McLeod and Foote were related to the report, Devils coach Lindy Ruff said: “I don’t know. I don’t know.”

The Flames, in their Sunday announcement, about Dube said, "Dillon is under the care of health professionals, and we request that Dillon’s privacy is respected during this period.”

Formenton, 24, was a 2017 second-round draft pick of the Ottawa Senators, who did not re-sign him in 2022 after his contract expired, despite holding his rights. He has played in Switzerland's National League A since.

It was not immediately clear if or when the NHL would release the findings of its investigation or what punishments may come out of it for any players involved. There was also no clarity on the three other players alleged to be involved.

Hockey Canada has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-canada-hockey-sexual-assault-24c5f5271f08e1ff46846936ef77e5ff">made wholesale changes</a>&nbsp;after a scathing independent report and lost major sponsors in the nearly two years since this and other scandals emerged.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-sexual-assault-justin-trudeau-96d4df34ecd9cd44851d546f25884ae4">CEO Scott Smith was ousted</a>&nbsp;and the board of directors also resigned in October 2022, related to how Hockey Canada handled sexual assault allegations and how it paid out settlements.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nike-hockey-canada-8c65b1a47fff9bfe18772b1c5f20b486">Nike last year permanently ended its partnership</a>&nbsp;with the organization after earlier pausing it, along with other sponsors, given the heavy criticism of Hockey Canada leadership.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706131909598.jpeg" alt="FILE - The Canadian team poses for a photo after winning the gold medal with a 3-1 win over Sweden during the third period the title game of the IIHF world junior hockey championships, Friday, Jan. 5, 2018, in Buffalo, N.Y. Five players from Canada's 2018 world junior team have taken a leave of absence from their respective clubs in recent days amid a report that five members of that team have been asked to surrender to police to face sexual assault charges. New Jersey’s Michael McLeod and Cal Foote, Philadelphia’s Carter Hart, Calgary’s Dillon Dube and former NHL player Alex Formenton have all been granted indefinite leave, with the absences announced this week. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - The Canadian team poses for a photo after winning the gold medal with a 3-1 win over Sweden during the third period the title game of the IIHF world junior hockey championships, Friday, Jan. 5, 2018, in Buffalo, N.Y. Five players from Canada's 2018 world junior team have taken a leave of absence from their respective clubs in recent days amid a report that five members of that team have been asked to surrender to police to face sexual assault charges. New Jersey’s Michael McLeod and Cal Foote, Philadelphia’s Carter Hart, Calgary’s Dillon Dube and former NHL player Alex Formenton have all been granted indefinite leave, with the absences announced this week. (Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY STEPHEN WHYNOAssociated PressFive players from Canada's 2018 world junior team have taken a leave of absence from their current clubs in recent days amid a report that five members of that team have been asked to surrender to police to face sexual assault charges.NHL players Michael McLeod and Cal Foote of the New Jersey Devils,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flyers-carter-hart-0637fcbae8f8005147edb1582e5dc74d">Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers</a>, Dillon Dube of the Calgary Flames and former NHL player Alex Formenton, who is now with a team in Europe, all have been granted indefinite leave, with the absences announced over the past four days.The Flyers and Swiss club HC Ambri-Piotta cited personal reasons for Hart's and Formenton's leaves; the Swiss club also said Formenton has been allowed to return to Canada. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dillon-dube-flames-leave-mental-health-367bd328d4f66cdb01481673969b7418">Flames cited Dube's mental health</a>, and the Devils did not give a reason Wednesday in announcing McLeod and Foote were on leave.Messages left for the agents representing all five players and multiple messages sent to Hart's lawyer seeking comment were not immediately returned. The NHL Players' Association declined to comment.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-canada-hockey-ontario-sexual-assault-a2fcb263bfafd1c824a28b2f43caae21">London, Ontario, police launched an investigation</a>&nbsp;in 2022 after word emerged that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-canada-lawsuits-sexual-assault-9e81b3ec0df1fa23ce7a69f8e630bfaf">Hockey Canada had settled</a>&nbsp;a lawsuit with a woman who said she was sexually assaulted by eight members of that gold medal-winning team at a gala. The Globe &amp; Mail, citing unnamed sources, reported Wednesday that five players from that team were asked to surrender to police in the city halfway between Toronto and Detroit to face charges of sexual assault.A spokesperson for London Police would not confirm the report when contacted by The Associated Press. “When there is an update to provide, we will share with media outlets,” Sgt. Sandasha Bough said Wednesday.London Police announced Wednesday they would be holding a news conference on Feb. 5 to share further details “in relation to a sexual assault investigation dating back to 2018.”Earlier in the day, Flyers general manager Daniel Briere opened his midseason state-of-the-organization news conference by saying: "We are aware of this morning’s press reports on a very serious matter. We will respond appropriately when the outcomes of the investigations are made public.“The NHL has been very clear that teams should refer all investigation-related questions to them. In the meantime, members of the organization, including Flyers players, will not be commenting any further. That's all we can say at the moment, unfortunately."<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-los-angeles-montreal-94e7a3a44b7bd4a571e0795cb9dc6860">The NHL opened its own investigation</a>&nbsp;in 2022 and pledged to make those findings public.Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly told The Associated Press by email Wednesday the league would issue a statement when it is appropriate, adding there's nothing more he could currently say. At the Stanley Cup Final in June, Daly said an independent investigator had completed work and he expected a report by midsummer that the league would then review.“We have been in contact with the London police, continue to want to be in contact with them, make sure that there’s visibility with respect to what our process is,” Daly said June 3. “And to the extent we can understand what theirs is, that would be the goal. And then I can’t prejudge what happens from there."The Flyers announced Hart's leave of absence Tuesday in the aftermath of the 25-year-old coming off one of his worst starts of an otherwise strong season when he allowed five goals on 15 shots in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/avalanche-flyers-score-nathan-mackinnon-bb70924626fd843241920f0c09cbb327">a loss to Colorado</a>&nbsp;before being pulled. Briere said he did not know if the situation contributed to Hart's recent play in any way.“I really can’t tell because we don’t know anything,” Briere said. “We’re not aware of anything. I think there’s a lot of speculation. That’s all we know.”Asked after practice in Newark, New Jersey, if the absences of McLeod and Foote were related to the report, Devils coach Lindy Ruff said: “I don’t know. I don’t know.”The Flames, in their Sunday announcement, about Dube said, "Dillon is under the care of health professionals, and we request that Dillon’s privacy is respected during this period.”Formenton, 24, was a 2017 second-round draft pick of the Ottawa Senators, who did not re-sign him in 2022 after his contract expired, despite holding his rights. He has played in Switzerland's National League A since.It was not immediately clear if or when the NHL would release the findings of its investigation or what punishments may come out of it for any players involved. There was also no clarity on the three other players alleged to be involved.Hockey Canada has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-canada-hockey-sexual-assault-24c5f5271f08e1ff46846936ef77e5ff">made wholesale changes</a>&nbsp;after a scathing independent report and lost major sponsors in the nearly two years since this and other scandals emerged.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nhl-sports-hockey-sexual-assault-justin-trudeau-96d4df34ecd9cd44851d546f25884ae4">CEO Scott Smith was ousted</a>&nbsp;and the board of directors also resigned in October 2022, related to how Hockey Canada handled sexual assault allegations and how it paid out settlements.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nike-hockey-canada-8c65b1a47fff9bfe18772b1c5f20b486">Nike last year permanently ended its partnership</a>&nbsp;with the organization after earlier pausing it, along with other sponsors, given the heavy criticism of Hockey Canada leadership.

Five players from 2018 Canada world junior team take leave of absence from their clubs

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgYEMYDB1pIcGxfMQfyP-tgLWdOI5UYIYuamPO5Y1QfMW68CCkZtV4HqS-PBSNfquES6M-z0jEP0tuOOfZb5VYaA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Omaha Supernovas,</a>&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team in the newly-established&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgaoNMRDnbdfHka4KC4ERcMkEXdNEZJZywRU_1WVU3EkxKY7Ic1yGAFXOMT-PcQxatdp8UB4ep5Bk6TSVLUOL8QQ==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Professional Volleyball Federation</a>, are excited to announce the official 14-person active roster ahead of Omaha’s franchise opener against the Atlanta Vibe at the CHI Health Center at 7 p.m. for the first Pro Volleyball Federation match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The final roster includes a mix of NCAA national champions, All-Americans and Olympians. That also includes two college practice players. The Supernovas are proud to present the following players:&nbsp;&nbsp;

That also includes two practices player who are:

The Supernovas are led by AVCA Hall of Fame coach Shelton Collier, who brings an illustrious 41-year volleyball coaching career to Omaha. He’s aided by one of the top coaching staffs in the Pro Volleyball Federation which includes Laura ‘Bird’ Kuhn, John Corbelli, John Xie and Thomas Robson.&nbsp;

Omaha enters the inaugural season as the preseason favorites, as revealed in the Pro Volleyball Federation preseason poll which was voted on by every head coach in the league. Supernovas outside hitter Bethania de la Cruz was voted to the preseason All-League team as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Atlanta Vibe comes into Omaha as the Supernovas’ main rival for league supremacy, landing No. 2 in the Pro Volleyball Federation poll with 32 points, compared to Omaha’s 33. The Vibe boasts one of the best outside hitters and liberos in the league with former Kentucky attacker Leah Edmund and Stanford graduate Morgan Hentz. &nbsp;

Tori Dilfer-Stringer looks set to run the offense as the Vibe’s setter. Dilfer-Stringer made her Team U.S.A. debut at the 2022 Pan American Cup after finishing a historic career at Louisville. She was one of the primary reasons why the Cardinals made their first Final Four in 2021 with Dilfer-Stinger making the AVCA All-American First Team marking the first such honor in program history. &nbsp;

The full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVSLOiyKVyqSH3wI_hnSVOpbsnX20_x9yWBOu2ZfbPHXCeGHDJFe0yMkqZHh5mJcDd1SDdAhNLsGyZs3hlAfzwP9keN-fQZd9uETVqsLq2IQCrnQ-A0gYIegvBI9-IiPgFYNlHdbNPRanicHj1Ys7-WJ2ybprebhbERsJpkwq6H_BWsB4Yw2QEM=&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;

Coverage of the Supernovas match against the Vibe will be streamed online, free throughout the state, on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVXS8nARFOxzxbGRbb3xvOKxeq1J3bugFEtLTDq5aLDzY70pmTf5EaoF5sUqjGVf5Z1pPVq3K8IuQIGJM4tX3UkeW8LhPppvEt-RKDP6zRkB&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">NewsChannelNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;as well as the free News Channel Nebraska app on Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV. Fans are also able to listen to all the action on the ‘Supernovas Radio Network’ with flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVXS8nARFOxzfXNOtOYxUB9ZNlqlM_Zfzm5VJG4-aobr8ADroXfT_bwEV4jo73wbqnEEFwCYt23dlfruFqdChJ7X-wqsEllSgA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket FM</a>.&nbsp;

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

The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTg7xWLLu9NCT-ct3DvJ5y-kURP9REHJ5QquN0-SViqosB9Gry_gauyQ1nxLGMWtbieDLqjDrf1W-f8X8t-7rY_ponCjIViWMYDwpm-yWJGWdsNuTGSZUcDXynDhW2lyOVn&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTg3z0idLM34l7h7ejTEZaguA18AlvGCHZD2fNY1CUgnnYGS5L1A8qd3BqbVg8kbElSoQqf5BFJbKBxengeByyJ6g==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgsiCwX4EQ5r541SLAlJmX_0YGZey_0OeFkZPsziZ17Ul1ly6J8g6nO7Nu8wtk9Tn_SdCBa69G1txnungPnwRHFA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgMMKSqoIv8VpmOy3Pois8-BVxu2X3ISDdm57iL9zrkrgfYG5Z8hihXJ8L8lZmT4H6tiFkAFpgx-uRDiUjgDH5bA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgI-GJ3M94QUy7BCRV_iqJo7SeN-5jatYLSNAVO5GagCO-Ne8JLbHMObx0FasvzfL0ykzOhiBrXDvGmQdx0TNrzw==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgZ_GpG1SDl768bNlNMjsPugQ4wRWq-t_dU4ZGjD4P3cMAkXefUvCmSdSYlqCBpj_14ijLIPJIpVbMljs4o_twMg==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgKHVgrWvEVLx7moJbsoOywhzqpymdZf6bno4UQ_nYeTdIk2K6nY14xqh-2RcJLzG_EAp1JXTSqUej6bndrAE4IZhmlVUtKSlK&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be one of the top four squads in the standings that will compete for the Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced at a later date.&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;

Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgaoNMRDnbdfHka4KC4ERcMkEXdNEZJZywRU_1WVU3EkxKY7Ic1yGAFXOMT-PcQxatdp8UB4ep5Bk6TSVLUOL8QQ==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Geoff ExstromOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgYEMYDB1pIcGxfMQfyP-tgLWdOI5UYIYuamPO5Y1QfMW68CCkZtV4HqS-PBSNfquES6M-z0jEP0tuOOfZb5VYaA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Omaha Supernovas,</a>&nbsp;Nebraska’s professional volleyball team in the newly-established&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgaoNMRDnbdfHka4KC4ERcMkEXdNEZJZywRU_1WVU3EkxKY7Ic1yGAFXOMT-PcQxatdp8UB4ep5Bk6TSVLUOL8QQ==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Professional Volleyball Federation</a>, are excited to announce the official 14-person active roster ahead of Omaha’s franchise opener against the Atlanta Vibe at the CHI Health Center at 7 p.m. for the first Pro Volleyball Federation match.&nbsp;&nbsp;The final roster includes a mix of NCAA national champions, All-Americans and Olympians. That also includes two college practice players. The Supernovas are proud to present the following players:&nbsp;&nbsp;No. 1 Natalia Valentín-Anderson, SNo. 2 Sydney Hilley, SNo. 3 Kendall White, LNo. 5 Brooke Nuneviller, OHNo. 6 Tori Dixon, MBNo. 7 Gina-Mancuso-Prososki, OHNo. 10 Jess Schaben-Lansman, OHNo. 13 Paige Briggs, OHNo. 14 Nia Reed, OPPNo. 15 Allison Mayfield, OHNo. 18 Bethania de la Cruz, OHNo. 23 Gabby Thompson, LNo. 27 Emma Willis, MBNo. 81 Danielle Hart, MBThat also includes two practices player who are:No. 24 Sophia Davis, MB, James MadisonNo. 25 Maggie Cartwright, OPP, ArkansasThe Supernovas are led by AVCA Hall of Fame coach Shelton Collier, who brings an illustrious 41-year volleyball coaching career to Omaha. He’s aided by one of the top coaching staffs in the Pro Volleyball Federation which includes Laura ‘Bird’ Kuhn, John Corbelli, John Xie and Thomas Robson.&nbsp;Omaha enters the inaugural season as the preseason favorites, as revealed in the Pro Volleyball Federation preseason poll which was voted on by every head coach in the league. Supernovas outside hitter Bethania de la Cruz was voted to the preseason All-League team as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Atlanta Vibe comes into Omaha as the Supernovas’ main rival for league supremacy, landing No. 2 in the Pro Volleyball Federation poll with 32 points, compared to Omaha’s 33. The Vibe boasts one of the best outside hitters and liberos in the league with former Kentucky attacker Leah Edmund and Stanford graduate Morgan Hentz. &nbsp;Tori Dilfer-Stringer looks set to run the offense as the Vibe’s setter. Dilfer-Stringer made her Team U.S.A. debut at the 2022 Pan American Cup after finishing a historic career at Louisville. She was one of the primary reasons why the Cardinals made their first Final Four in 2021 with Dilfer-Stinger making the AVCA All-American First Team marking the first such honor in program history. &nbsp;The full match notes can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVSLOiyKVyqSH3wI_hnSVOpbsnX20_x9yWBOu2ZfbPHXCeGHDJFe0yMkqZHh5mJcDd1SDdAhNLsGyZs3hlAfzwP9keN-fQZd9uETVqsLq2IQCrnQ-A0gYIegvBI9-IiPgFYNlHdbNPRanicHj1Ys7-WJ2ybprebhbERsJpkwq6H_BWsB4Yw2QEM=&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;Coverage of the Supernovas match against the Vibe will be streamed online, free throughout the state, on&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVXS8nARFOxzxbGRbb3xvOKxeq1J3bugFEtLTDq5aLDzY70pmTf5EaoF5sUqjGVf5Z1pPVq3K8IuQIGJM4tX3UkeW8LhPppvEt-RKDP6zRkB&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">NewsChannelNebraska.com</a>&nbsp;as well as the free News Channel Nebraska app on Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV. Fans are also able to listen to all the action on the ‘Supernovas Radio Network’ with flagship station&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPVXS8nARFOxzfXNOtOYxUB9ZNlqlM_Zfzm5VJG4-aobr8ADroXfT_bwEV4jo73wbqnEEFwCYt23dlfruFqdChJ7X-wqsEllSgA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">93.7 The Ticket FM</a>.&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;competition will officially begin in the United States with the Omaha Supernovas hosting the Atlanta Vibe in the first match in league history at the CHI Health Center in downtown Omaha on January 24, at 7 p.m. CST. Nebraska supports volleyball better than anyone, as evidenced by the more than 92,000 fans that turned out this season for a collegiate match at the Nebraska’s Memorial Stadium in August, setting a new world record for the highest attended women’s sporting event. Several Supernovas were in attendance and recognized at the world record match.&nbsp;The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024 inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTg7xWLLu9NCT-ct3DvJ5y-kURP9REHJ5QquN0-SViqosB9Gry_gauyQ1nxLGMWtbieDLqjDrf1W-f8X8t-7rY_ponCjIViWMYDwpm-yWJGWdsNuTGSZUcDXynDhW2lyOVn&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Atlanta Vibe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTg3z0idLM34l7h7ejTEZaguA18AlvGCHZD2fNY1CUgnnYGS5L1A8qd3BqbVg8kbElSoQqf5BFJbKBxengeByyJ6g==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Orlando Valkyries</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgsiCwX4EQ5r541SLAlJmX_0YGZey_0OeFkZPsziZ17Ul1ly6J8g6nO7Nu8wtk9Tn_SdCBa69G1txnungPnwRHFA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Columbus Fury</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgMMKSqoIv8VpmOy3Pois8-BVxu2X3ISDdm57iL9zrkrgfYG5Z8hihXJ8L8lZmT4H6tiFkAFpgx-uRDiUjgDH5bA==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Grand Rapids Rise</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgI-GJ3M94QUy7BCRV_iqJo7SeN-5jatYLSNAVO5GagCO-Ne8JLbHMObx0FasvzfL0ykzOhiBrXDvGmQdx0TNrzw==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">San Diego Mojo</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgZ_GpG1SDl768bNlNMjsPugQ4wRWq-t_dU4ZGjD4P3cMAkXefUvCmSdSYlqCBpj_14ijLIPJIpVbMljs4o_twMg==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Vegas Thrill</a>. Three expansion teams,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgKHVgrWvEVLx7moJbsoOywhzqpymdZf6bno4UQ_nYeTdIk2K6nY14xqh-2RcJLzG_EAp1JXTSqUej6bndrAE4IZhmlVUtKSlK&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">Dallas Pro Volleyball</a>, Kansas City Pro Volleyball and Indianapolis Pro Volleyball have been announced for 2025. The Supernovas will have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be one of the top four squads in the standings that will compete for the Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced at a later date.&nbsp;ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&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;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is&nbsp;REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL&nbsp;and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation will begin play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our entire focus is on ensuring that our level and quality of play, our treatment of players, the quality of our event presentations, and our day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001bdQXHv5YKehcE4PriE0nI-kr12cZRIEYWG8iiA2JbcGtJE_kMMBNPZJCijdZAoTgaoNMRDnbdfHka4KC4ERcMkEXdNEZJZywRU_1WVU3EkxKY7Ic1yGAFXOMT-PcQxatdp8UB4ep5Bk6TSVLUOL8QQ==&amp;c=QvkadsUn4uW8kzk2bWs01OdDXQv96YBQfLRiZATCqy45hTw8e06JFw==&amp;ch=PX3sklrEBHR85VYPOe8YgsiP_yRQt86PQEQhGGU6rGNmCaSx7UMmPQ==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

Supernovas Finalize Active Roster, Prepare For Historic First Match

Behind a career-high performance from Rienk Mast, Nebraska posted an 83-69 win over Ohio State on Tuesday evening.

Mast was dominant, hitting 13-of-17 shots from the field, including 6-of-8 behind the en route to a career-high 34 point, 10-rebound, four-assist effort.

Mast, who posted his fifth double-double of the season, had 21 points in the second half on 9-of-10 shooting as his 34-point night topped his previous career high of 30 set in the 2023 MVC Tournament.

Nebraska (15-5, 5-4 Big Ten) shot nearly 50 percent from the field and hit 14 3-pointers, including four by C.J. Wilcher, who came off the bench and added 16 points and three assists. Brice Williams gave NU a trio of double-figure nights with 14 points and seven rebounds. Nebraska dished out 19 assists and had just six turnovers in the win.

Nebraska, which trailed by as many as nine in the first half, had built a 10-poit lead on the first possession of the first half before the Buckeyes used an 8-1 run to pull within 46-43 after Zed Key’s basket with 17:25 remaining.

Wilcher then provided a big moment, hitting a pair of corner 3-pointers in a span of 1:12 that extended Nebraska’s cushion to 52-43.

The Buckeyes (13-6, 3-5) pulled to within five at 52-47 before Mast took over. The 6-foot-10 junior scored five straight points as part of a 7-0 run to push the lead to 12. He then scored NU’s next 10 points, including back-to-back 3-pointers as the Huskers built an 18-point advantage with 6:51 remaining, and NU would lead by double figures the rest of the night.

Ohio State started off hot, hitting their first four shots of the night to race to a 9-4 lead before NU settled in. OSU hit eight of their first 13 shots and built a 22-13 lead after a pair of Bruce Thornton free throws at the 11:36 mark capped a 9-0 run.

Nebraska’s bench would ignite the crowd of over 14,000 at Pinnacle Bank Arena, as Wilcher had five points in an 8-0 run to pull NU within one after a putback by freshman Eli Rice.

Nebraska trailed 30-26 before Mast hit consecutive 3-pointers to give NU a 32-30 lead. NU held the Buckeyes to two field goals in the final 4:30 and took control of the contest with a 17-5 spurt to close the half. Mast had 11 of his 13 first-half points as Nebraska took a 43-35 lead into the locker room after a Williams putback in the final seconds of the half.

NU hits the road to face Maryland this Saturday, Jan. 27 at 11 a.m. (CT). The game will be aired on BTN and will be available on the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;

By NU Athletics CommunicationsBehind a career-high performance from Rienk Mast, Nebraska posted an 83-69 win over Ohio State on Tuesday evening.Mast was dominant, hitting 13-of-17 shots from the field, including 6-of-8 behind the en route to a career-high 34 point, 10-rebound, four-assist effort.Mast, who posted his fifth double-double of the season, had 21 points in the second half on 9-of-10 shooting as his 34-point night topped his previous career high of 30 set in the 2023 MVC Tournament.Nebraska (15-5, 5-4 Big Ten) shot nearly 50 percent from the field and hit 14 3-pointers, including four by C.J. Wilcher, who came off the bench and added 16 points and three assists. Brice Williams gave NU a trio of double-figure nights with 14 points and seven rebounds. Nebraska dished out 19 assists and had just six turnovers in the win.Nebraska, which trailed by as many as nine in the first half, had built a 10-poit lead on the first possession of the first half before the Buckeyes used an 8-1 run to pull within 46-43 after Zed Key’s basket with 17:25 remaining.Wilcher then provided a big moment, hitting a pair of corner 3-pointers in a span of 1:12 that extended Nebraska’s cushion to 52-43.The Buckeyes (13-6, 3-5) pulled to within five at 52-47 before Mast took over. The 6-foot-10 junior scored five straight points as part of a 7-0 run to push the lead to 12. He then scored NU’s next 10 points, including back-to-back 3-pointers as the Huskers built an 18-point advantage with 6:51 remaining, and NU would lead by double figures the rest of the night.Ohio State started off hot, hitting their first four shots of the night to race to a 9-4 lead before NU settled in. OSU hit eight of their first 13 shots and built a 22-13 lead after a pair of Bruce Thornton free throws at the 11:36 mark capped a 9-0 run.Nebraska’s bench would ignite the crowd of over 14,000 at Pinnacle Bank Arena, as Wilcher had five points in an 8-0 run to pull NU within one after a putback by freshman Eli Rice.Nebraska trailed 30-26 before Mast hit consecutive 3-pointers to give NU a 32-30 lead. NU held the Buckeyes to two field goals in the final 4:30 and took control of the contest with a 17-5 spurt to close the half. Mast had 11 of his 13 first-half points as Nebraska took a 43-35 lead into the locker room after a Williams putback in the final seconds of the half.NU hits the road to face Maryland this Saturday, Jan. 27 at 11 a.m. (CT). The game will be aired on BTN and will be available on the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;<h2>RELATED STORIES</h2>

Mast's career night lifts Huskers over Ohio State

North Platte, Neb. – Strong defense helped North Platte limit Western Nebraska early, but a long run reversed the momentum in the second half and carried the Cougars to a 50-40 win inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

Dazjanae Greene led the Knights with 12 points on 5-of-12 shooting from the field, while Jada Thompson chipped in 11 points to round out the North Platte players in double figures.

Cougars were held at bay offensively, as the Knights forced 18 turnovers in the opening twenty minutes of action. The relentless defense limited the Cougars to five points in the second quarter, while Greene orchestrated the offense to a 23-18 halftime lead.

The margin grew to nine on a three from Thompson in the opening 4:03 of the third quarter, before the Cougars unleashed a long run to steal the momentum. A 17-0 run powered by strong rebounding and quick transition buckets helped Western Nebraska take a 42-34 lead.

The margin was extended to 46-36 with 4:37 remaining, before a short spurt trimmed the deficit to six on a pullup jumper by Greene. Western Nebraska held strong to their lead in the closing minutes and sealed the game out at the free throw line.

North Platte was limited to just 27.9 percent (17-61) shooting from the field, which included 22.2 percent (4-18) from long range. Cougars shot 39.1 percent (18-46) from the floor, while winning the rebounding battle 39-37 in their win.

Knights (11-8) hit the road for a three-game road trip beginning with Southeast Community College on Saturday. Tip is set for 5 p.m. in Lincoln, Neb.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte, Neb. – Strong defense helped North Platte limit Western Nebraska early, but a long run reversed the momentum in the second half and carried the Cougars to a 50-40 win inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.Dazjanae Greene led the Knights with 12 points on 5-of-12 shooting from the field, while Jada Thompson chipped in 11 points to round out the North Platte players in double figures.Cougars were held at bay offensively, as the Knights forced 18 turnovers in the opening twenty minutes of action. The relentless defense limited the Cougars to five points in the second quarter, while Greene orchestrated the offense to a 23-18 halftime lead.The margin grew to nine on a three from Thompson in the opening 4:03 of the third quarter, before the Cougars unleashed a long run to steal the momentum. A 17-0 run powered by strong rebounding and quick transition buckets helped Western Nebraska take a 42-34 lead.The margin was extended to 46-36 with 4:37 remaining, before a short spurt trimmed the deficit to six on a pullup jumper by Greene. Western Nebraska held strong to their lead in the closing minutes and sealed the game out at the free throw line.North Platte was limited to just 27.9 percent (17-61) shooting from the field, which included 22.2 percent (4-18) from long range. Cougars shot 39.1 percent (18-46) from the floor, while winning the rebounding battle 39-37 in their win.Knights (11-8) hit the road for a three-game road trip beginning with Southeast Community College on Saturday. Tip is set for 5 p.m. in Lincoln, Neb.

Rally lifts Cougars past Knights

North Platte, Neb. – Davion Evans had a season best 26 points to lead three North Platte players in double figures, but Western Nebraska earned the 81-80 victory in overtime on Tuesday night.

Evans led the way to open the extra period, as a 6-2 burst gave the 75-71 advantage to the home team with 2:56 to play. Western Nebraska climbed back within one inside two minutes, before a deep three from JJ Harris put the Cougars out front for the final time.

North Platte finished the game shooting 43.5 percent (30-69) from the field, which included 33.3 percent (7-21) from long range. Western Nebraska forced 19 turnovers in the win, while connecting on 38.8 percent (31-80) of their shots from the floor

North Platte jumped out to an early 24-14 lead behind seven points from Bryce Baez. Evans joined the perimeter shooting parade to stretch the margin to 27-14, but a late rally narrowed the margin to six inside the final four minutes.

Evans ignited the offense with a mid-range jumper to end the rally with 3:35 remaining in the half. North Platte continued to match the Cougars down the stretch and took a 44-33 lead into the halftime break.

A 14-2 run in the early minutes of the second half helped the Cougars erase the double-digit halftime deficit. North Platte responded to knot the game up with 3:02 to play, before a quick 4-0 burst pushed the Knights lead to 69-65. The Cougars responded in the final minute to force the overtime period.

Knights (9-9, 1-3 Region IX South) continue Region IX South play on Saturday against Northeastern Junior College. Tip is set for 5 p.m. at the Bank of Colorado Event Center in Sterling.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte, Neb. – Davion Evans had a season best 26 points to lead three North Platte players in double figures, but Western Nebraska earned the 81-80 victory in overtime on Tuesday night.Evans led the way to open the extra period, as a 6-2 burst gave the 75-71 advantage to the home team with 2:56 to play. Western Nebraska climbed back within one inside two minutes, before a deep three from JJ Harris put the Cougars out front for the final time.North Platte finished the game shooting 43.5 percent (30-69) from the field, which included 33.3 percent (7-21) from long range. Western Nebraska forced 19 turnovers in the win, while connecting on 38.8 percent (31-80) of their shots from the floorNorth Platte jumped out to an early 24-14 lead behind seven points from Bryce Baez. Evans joined the perimeter shooting parade to stretch the margin to 27-14, but a late rally narrowed the margin to six inside the final four minutes.Evans ignited the offense with a mid-range jumper to end the rally with 3:35 remaining in the half. North Platte continued to match the Cougars down the stretch and took a 44-33 lead into the halftime break.A 14-2 run in the early minutes of the second half helped the Cougars erase the double-digit halftime deficit. North Platte responded to knot the game up with 3:02 to play, before a quick 4-0 burst pushed the Knights lead to 69-65. The Cougars responded in the final minute to force the overtime period.Knights (9-9, 1-3 Region IX South) continue Region IX South play on Saturday against Northeastern Junior College. Tip is set for 5 p.m. at the Bank of Colorado Event Center in Sterling.

Knights lose heartbreaker in overtime

A roster full of newcomers will make for a fun and fresh season for the North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team.

The Knights have only five returners this spring: hometown girl Juliana Ortiz, Amya Blake-Cosper, Sasha Strandberg, April Grace and Nancy Martinez-Sanchez, leaving 10 freshmen who will look to them for guidance and leadership.

“We have two returning pitchers in our sophomore class and three utility athletes,” said NPCC Head Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “Nancy Martinez-Sanchez was the region’s defensive player of the year, so she is looking to repeat that honor. Our freshman class brings depth to our pitching circle for sure, but everyone is a utility player, so making a lineup is pretty fun as there are so many options to choose from.”

The freshmen include three players from Texas, two of whom are from San Antonio and who came highly recommended by Martinez-Sanchez.

Juliana is one of three athletes with a last name of Ortiz, and no, they’re not related.

The Knights look to build on the success of last year when they made it to the second round of the NJCAA Region 9 Tournament and scored an All-American selection in Elena Montoya.

In addition to Martinez-Sanchez’s defensive player of the year recognition, Ortiz and Grace were each selected as Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar Athletes.

“Expectations are always high,” Higgins said. “Like any year, our main focus is to be great humans, have fun and win some games.”

<a>The Knights kick off the season with a triangular in Arkansas City, Kan. Feb. 2. They will take on Seminole State College in a doubleheader beginning at noon.</a>

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsA roster full of newcomers will make for a fun and fresh season for the North Platte Community College Knights Softball Team.The Knights have only five returners this spring: hometown girl Juliana Ortiz, Amya Blake-Cosper, Sasha Strandberg, April Grace and Nancy Martinez-Sanchez, leaving 10 freshmen who will look to them for guidance and leadership.“We have two returning pitchers in our sophomore class and three utility athletes,” said NPCC Head Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “Nancy Martinez-Sanchez was the region’s defensive player of the year, so she is looking to repeat that honor. Our freshman class brings depth to our pitching circle for sure, but everyone is a utility player, so making a lineup is pretty fun as there are so many options to choose from.”The freshmen include three players from Texas, two of whom are from San Antonio and who came highly recommended by Martinez-Sanchez.Juliana is one of three athletes with a last name of Ortiz, and no, they’re not related.The incoming athletes are:<ul>
 <li>Jesusita Ruiz, of Imperial</li><li>Sherea Ortiz, of Commerce City, Colo.</li><li>Hailey Ortiz, of San Antonio, Texas</li><li>Sarah Perez, of San Antonio, Texas</li><li>Colby Keckler, of Nampa, Idaho</li><li>Jessica Ureste, of Hereford, Texas</li><li>MiaKoda Whitehorse, of Page, Ariz.</li><li>Serena Jimenez, of Littleton, Colo.</li><li>Eden Shimaoka, of Waimānalo, Hawaii</li><li>Madison Chamberlain, of Kingman, Ariz.</li>
 </ul>The Knights look to build on the success of last year when they made it to the second round of the NJCAA Region 9 Tournament and scored an All-American selection in Elena Montoya.In addition to Martinez-Sanchez’s defensive player of the year recognition, Ortiz and Grace were each selected as Easton/NFCA All-America Scholar Athletes.“Expectations are always high,” Higgins said. “Like any year, our main focus is to be great humans, have fun and win some games.”<a>The Knights kick off the season with a triangular in Arkansas City, Kan. Feb. 2. They will take on Seminole State College in a doubleheader beginning at noon.</a>

NPCC Softball full of new talent

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 <figcaption>'23-24 RPAC Girls BB Tourney Bracket (Qtr Finals)</figcaption>
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 <figcaption>'23-24 RPAC Boys BB Tourney Bracket (Qtr Finals)</figcaption>
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RPAC Tournament  Quarter Final Results and update

The Nebraska men's basketball team finishes a two-game homestand on Tuesday night, as the Huskers play host to Ohio State. Tipoff at Pinnacle Bank Arena is set for 6 p.m., and the game will be streamed on Peacock and carried on the Huskers Radio Network.

Some 300 Level tickets are available for Tuesday's game and can be purchased by visiting Huskers.com/Tickets, calling 800-8-BIGRED during business hours (Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) or at PBA beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.&nbsp;Tuesday's game is part of the American Cancer Society's Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Week, as the Husker coaches will be in suits and sneakers to raise awareness for cancer research. For more info on Suits and Sneakers Week, visit cancer.org

Nebraska (14-5, 4-4 Big Ten) comes off a gutty 75-69 win over Northwestern on Saturday. The Huskers, who were short-handed without Juwan Gary because of a calf injury, shot a season-best 55.3 percent from the floor and put five players in double figures. Josiah Allick moved into the starting lineup and led NU with 15 points while Keisei Tominaga had seven of his 14 points in a closing 10-4 run after Northwestern tied it at 65 with less than four minutes remaining.&nbsp;

Allick has stepped up in recent weeks, averaging 8.1 points per game on 77 percent shooting, 5.1 rebounds and nearly two assists per game over the last eight contests. &nbsp;The 6-foot-8 forward has led NU in scoring in two of the past three games. He also helped hold Northwestern to 38.1 percent shooting, its second-lowest total of the season, on Saturday.Ohio State (13-5, 3-4) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 79-67 win over Penn State on Saturday. The Buckeyes jumped out to a 16-0 lead and never trailed in holding Penn State to just 37.1 percent shooting. Evan Mahaffey and Roddy Gayle Jr. led OSU with 16 points apiece.

Worth Noting&nbsp;• Nebraska enters Tuesday's game with a 14-5 mark which is NU's best 19-game record since joining the Big Ten. The last time NU had a better record after 19 games was in 1995-96 (15-4). A win on Tuesday would be the best 20-game start since the 1990-91 team opened with an 18-2 record.

• Nebraska has snapped several long streaks this season. Saturday's win over Northwestern snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Wildcats dating back to 2019. NU had previously already ended losing streaks to Michigan State (11 games), Kansas State (seven games) and Indiana (seven games) during the 2023-24 campaign.

• Nebraska enters the Ohio State game averaging 78.3 points per game. It is NU's highest points per game average since averaging 80.2 points per game in the 1995-96 season and on pace to finish in the top 10 in single-season scoring average. &nbsp;It is also more than 12 points per game higher than NU's average at the 18-game mark last season (66.4 ppg). &nbsp;NU has climbed from 149th to 29th nationally in offensive efficiency in KenPom as of Jan. 21. In six January games, NU is averaging 79.8 points per game.&nbsp;

• The Huskers are 12-1 at Pinnacle Bank Arena this season, the most home wins since the 2018-19 campaign.&nbsp;

• &nbsp;C.J. Wilcher has been on a roll in recent weeks, averaging 11.8 points per game on 58 percent shooting over the last eight contests to raise his season average to 8.5 ppg. He is 19-of-35 from 3-point range (.543) in that stretch with six double-figure efforts.

• &nbsp;Keisei Tominaga enters the OSU game needing just three 3-pointers to break into NU's top-10 career chart. Tominaga, who leads NU with 40 3-pointers, has 142 for his career. Tominaga, who is fourth in the Big Ten in 3-pointers per game, is five behind Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) for 10th place. He has made three or more 3-pointers in four of the past six games dating back to Jan. 3.

• &nbsp;The Huskers are 20-8 over the last 28 games dating back to Feb. 1, 2023, which ranks second in winning percentage as of Jan. 20. Nebraska closed the 2022-23 season with six wins in their final nine conference contests. A big reason for that is NU's offense, as NU has averaged 77.1 ppg on 47 percent shooting in that stretch.

• The Huskers are now 24-5 under Fred Hoiberg when scoring at least 80 points, including 19-2 over the last three seasons. Both losses have come in overtime (104-100 in 4OT at NC State on Dec. 1, 2021; 87-82 in OT at Rutgers on Jan. 17, 2024). NU had won its last 17 games when reaching the 80-point plateau before the OT loss at Rutgers.

• One strength of the Huskers has been getting to the free throw line. NU has shot more free throws in 15 of 19 games in 2023-24 and its +91 differential is fourth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 21. Nebraska has made nearly as many free throws (299) as opponents have had attempts (304). NU allows just 16.0 free throw attempts per game to rank fourth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 22

• Nebraska enters Tuesday's game ranked second in the Big Ten in free throw shooting at 75.7 percent. &nbsp;It is on pace to be one of NU's highest season percentages. NU has not shot over 74 percent from the foul line since the 2011-12 season when NU shot a school-record 76.6 percent.&nbsp;

• Nebraska's bench has provided a spark, averaging 23.9 points per game. The Huskers' leading scorer has come from the bench six times (Hoiberg-Lindenwood; Wilcher-Rider, North Dakota and South Carolina State; Gary-Stony Brook; Allick-Iowa) and NU has had 18 double-figure efforts from its bench in 2023-24.&nbsp;

• Nebraska won its first seven games by 10 or more points. It was just the second time in over 100 years - the other was from Dec. 3-30, 1990 - that the Huskers won seven straight games by double figures.

• The Huskers finished non-conference action with a 10-1 mark, matching their best non-conference record since joining the Big Ten (also 2018-19). &nbsp;

Numbers to Know17 - Nebraska has won its last 17 games when scoring at least 80 points before the streak was broken in Wednesday's overtime loss. Over the past three seasons, NU is 19-2 when scoring 80+ points with both losses coming in overtime (at NC State, 2021; at Rutgers, 2024).

9.3 - NU leads the Big Ten with 9.3 3-pointers per game as of Jan. 22, an average which is on pace to challenge the single-season school record for 3-pointers per game (9.5/gm, 2001-02). The Huskers are 8-2 this season when hitting at least 10 3-pointers.

17 - Nebraska has held 17 of 19 opponents under 50 percent shooting. Dating back to last season, NU has held 22 of its last 26 opponents to under 50 percent shooting.&nbsp;

4 - Nebraska's 2023-24 roster features four career 1,000-point scorers (Josiah Allick, Jarron Coleman, Rienk Mast and Brice Williams). Williams became the most recent member of the 1,000-point club at Wisconsin on Jan. 6.

1.41 - Nebraska's assist-to-turnover ratio this season, which is sixth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 22. &nbsp;Over the last decade, NU's best assist-to-turnover ratio is 1.32, set in the 2018-19 season. Nebraska's 16.0 assists per game is the program's highest average since 1995-96 (17.37 apg).

About Ohio StateUnder the direction of seventh-year coach Chris Holtmann, Ohio State is 13-5 on the season and 3-4 in Big Ten play following Saturday's win over Penn State. Holtmann guided OSU to five 20-win seasons and four NCAA Tournament appearances before the streak was snapped last season as OSU went 16-19.

OSU is led by a trio of sophomores who returned after playing significant roles in 2022-23. Bruce Thornton leads the Buckeye attack, as he is averaging 16.0 points and 4.4 assists per outing while posting a 4.4 assist-to-turnover ratio. &nbsp;Roddy Gayle Jr. is averaging 14.2 ppg and 5.1 rebounds per game while Felix Okpara is at 6.6 ppg along with team highs in both rebounds (7.6 rpg) and blocked shots (2.6 bpg) per game . Minnesota transfer Jamison Battle has given the Buckeyes an elite shooting threat, as he is averaging 14.4 ppg while shooting 45 percent from 3-point range.&nbsp;

Series History: Ohio State leads the all-time series, 20-6, in a series that dates back to 1936. The Buckeyes are 16-4 against the Huskers since Nebraska joined the Big Ten in 2011-12, but Nebraska has won the last two matchups. Tuesday's game will be just the seventh time in 21 meetings that OSU has not been ranked at game time against the Huskers since Nebraska joined the Big Ten.

Last Meeting: Sam Griesel scored 10 of his game-high 15 points in the second half, while Nebraska held Ohio State to 36 percent shooting in a 63-60 victory at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Jan. 18, 2023.

While Griesel kept the Huskers within striking distance early, it was some unsung heroes that gave Nebraska a hard-fought win. The Huskers trailed 49-47 with 8:55 remaining before Denim Dawson's basket keyed a decisive 8-0 run for the hosts. Jamarques Lawrence's 3-pointer gave NU a 52-49 lead it wouldn't relinquish before an Emmanuel Bandoumel basket and a Wilhelm Breidenbach free throw put NU up 55-49 with 5:14 left.&nbsp;

The game featured 13 lead changes and eight ties as neither team led by more than six points the entire evening. The&nbsp; Huskers held OSU without a field goal for over six and half minutes down the stretch and hit just enough free throws in the final two minutes to earn a second straight win over the Buckeyes. OSU closed to within 62-60 with 12.7 seconds remaining after a pair of free throws from Sean McNeil. C.J. Wilcher split a pair of free throws with 12.2 seconds remaining and the Huskers held on for a crucial home win.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska men's basketball team finishes a two-game homestand on Tuesday night, as the Huskers play host to Ohio State. Tipoff at Pinnacle Bank Arena is set for 6 p.m., and the game will be streamed on Peacock and carried on the Huskers Radio Network.Some 300 Level tickets are available for Tuesday's game and can be purchased by visiting Huskers.com/Tickets, calling 800-8-BIGRED during business hours (Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) or at PBA beginning at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday.&nbsp;Tuesday's game is part of the American Cancer Society's Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Week, as the Husker coaches will be in suits and sneakers to raise awareness for cancer research. For more info on Suits and Sneakers Week, visit cancer.orgNebraska (14-5, 4-4 Big Ten) comes off a gutty 75-69 win over Northwestern on Saturday. The Huskers, who were short-handed without Juwan Gary because of a calf injury, shot a season-best 55.3 percent from the floor and put five players in double figures. Josiah Allick moved into the starting lineup and led NU with 15 points while Keisei Tominaga had seven of his 14 points in a closing 10-4 run after Northwestern tied it at 65 with less than four minutes remaining.&nbsp;Allick has stepped up in recent weeks, averaging 8.1 points per game on 77 percent shooting, 5.1 rebounds and nearly two assists per game over the last eight contests. &nbsp;The 6-foot-8 forward has led NU in scoring in two of the past three games. He also helped hold Northwestern to 38.1 percent shooting, its second-lowest total of the season, on Saturday.Ohio State (13-5, 3-4) snapped a three-game losing streak with a 79-67 win over Penn State on Saturday. The Buckeyes jumped out to a 16-0 lead and never trailed in holding Penn State to just 37.1 percent shooting. Evan Mahaffey and Roddy Gayle Jr. led OSU with 16 points apiece.Worth Noting&nbsp;• Nebraska enters Tuesday's game with a 14-5 mark which is NU's best 19-game record since joining the Big Ten. The last time NU had a better record after 19 games was in 1995-96 (15-4). A win on Tuesday would be the best 20-game start since the 1990-91 team opened with an 18-2 record.• Nebraska has snapped several long streaks this season. Saturday's win over Northwestern snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Wildcats dating back to 2019. NU had previously already ended losing streaks to Michigan State (11 games), Kansas State (seven games) and Indiana (seven games) during the 2023-24 campaign.• Nebraska enters the Ohio State game averaging 78.3 points per game. It is NU's highest points per game average since averaging 80.2 points per game in the 1995-96 season and on pace to finish in the top 10 in single-season scoring average. &nbsp;It is also more than 12 points per game higher than NU's average at the 18-game mark last season (66.4 ppg). &nbsp;NU has climbed from 149th to 29th nationally in offensive efficiency in KenPom as of Jan. 21. In six January games, NU is averaging 79.8 points per game.&nbsp;• The Huskers are 12-1 at Pinnacle Bank Arena this season, the most home wins since the 2018-19 campaign.&nbsp;• &nbsp;C.J. Wilcher has been on a roll in recent weeks, averaging 11.8 points per game on 58 percent shooting over the last eight contests to raise his season average to 8.5 ppg. He is 19-of-35 from 3-point range (.543) in that stretch with six double-figure efforts.• &nbsp;Keisei Tominaga enters the OSU game needing just three 3-pointers to break into NU's top-10 career chart. Tominaga, who leads NU with 40 3-pointers, has 142 for his career. Tominaga, who is fourth in the Big Ten in 3-pointers per game, is five behind Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) for 10th place. He has made three or more 3-pointers in four of the past six games dating back to Jan. 3.• &nbsp;The Huskers are 20-8 over the last 28 games dating back to Feb. 1, 2023, which ranks second in winning percentage as of Jan. 20. Nebraska closed the 2022-23 season with six wins in their final nine conference contests. A big reason for that is NU's offense, as NU has averaged 77.1 ppg on 47 percent shooting in that stretch.• The Huskers are now 24-5 under Fred Hoiberg when scoring at least 80 points, including 19-2 over the last three seasons. Both losses have come in overtime (104-100 in 4OT at NC State on Dec. 1, 2021; 87-82 in OT at Rutgers on Jan. 17, 2024). NU had won its last 17 games when reaching the 80-point plateau before the OT loss at Rutgers.• One strength of the Huskers has been getting to the free throw line. NU has shot more free throws in 15 of 19 games in 2023-24 and its +91 differential is fourth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 21. Nebraska has made nearly as many free throws (299) as opponents have had attempts (304). NU allows just 16.0 free throw attempts per game to rank fourth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 22• Nebraska enters Tuesday's game ranked second in the Big Ten in free throw shooting at 75.7 percent. &nbsp;It is on pace to be one of NU's highest season percentages. NU has not shot over 74 percent from the foul line since the 2011-12 season when NU shot a school-record 76.6 percent.&nbsp;• Nebraska's bench has provided a spark, averaging 23.9 points per game. The Huskers' leading scorer has come from the bench six times (Hoiberg-Lindenwood; Wilcher-Rider, North Dakota and South Carolina State; Gary-Stony Brook; Allick-Iowa) and NU has had 18 double-figure efforts from its bench in 2023-24.&nbsp;• Nebraska won its first seven games by 10 or more points. It was just the second time in over 100 years - the other was from Dec. 3-30, 1990 - that the Huskers won seven straight games by double figures.• The Huskers finished non-conference action with a 10-1 mark, matching their best non-conference record since joining the Big Ten (also 2018-19). &nbsp;Numbers to Know17 - Nebraska has won its last 17 games when scoring at least 80 points before the streak was broken in Wednesday's overtime loss. Over the past three seasons, NU is 19-2 when scoring 80+ points with both losses coming in overtime (at NC State, 2021; at Rutgers, 2024).9.3 - NU leads the Big Ten with 9.3 3-pointers per game as of Jan. 22, an average which is on pace to challenge the single-season school record for 3-pointers per game (9.5/gm, 2001-02). The Huskers are 8-2 this season when hitting at least 10 3-pointers.17 - Nebraska has held 17 of 19 opponents under 50 percent shooting. Dating back to last season, NU has held 22 of its last 26 opponents to under 50 percent shooting.&nbsp;4 - Nebraska's 2023-24 roster features four career 1,000-point scorers (Josiah Allick, Jarron Coleman, Rienk Mast and Brice Williams). Williams became the most recent member of the 1,000-point club at Wisconsin on Jan. 6.1.41 - Nebraska's assist-to-turnover ratio this season, which is sixth in the Big Ten as of Jan. 22. &nbsp;Over the last decade, NU's best assist-to-turnover ratio is 1.32, set in the 2018-19 season. Nebraska's 16.0 assists per game is the program's highest average since 1995-96 (17.37 apg).About Ohio StateUnder the direction of seventh-year coach Chris Holtmann, Ohio State is 13-5 on the season and 3-4 in Big Ten play following Saturday's win over Penn State. Holtmann guided OSU to five 20-win seasons and four NCAA Tournament appearances before the streak was snapped last season as OSU went 16-19.OSU is led by a trio of sophomores who returned after playing significant roles in 2022-23. Bruce Thornton leads the Buckeye attack, as he is averaging 16.0 points and 4.4 assists per outing while posting a 4.4 assist-to-turnover ratio. &nbsp;Roddy Gayle Jr. is averaging 14.2 ppg and 5.1 rebounds per game while Felix Okpara is at 6.6 ppg along with team highs in both rebounds (7.6 rpg) and blocked shots (2.6 bpg) per game . Minnesota transfer Jamison Battle has given the Buckeyes an elite shooting threat, as he is averaging 14.4 ppg while shooting 45 percent from 3-point range.&nbsp;Series History: Ohio State leads the all-time series, 20-6, in a series that dates back to 1936. The Buckeyes are 16-4 against the Huskers since Nebraska joined the Big Ten in 2011-12, but Nebraska has won the last two matchups. Tuesday's game will be just the seventh time in 21 meetings that OSU has not been ranked at game time against the Huskers since Nebraska joined the Big Ten.Last Meeting: Sam Griesel scored 10 of his game-high 15 points in the second half, while Nebraska held Ohio State to 36 percent shooting in a 63-60 victory at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Jan. 18, 2023.While Griesel kept the Huskers within striking distance early, it was some unsung heroes that gave Nebraska a hard-fought win. The Huskers trailed 49-47 with 8:55 remaining before Denim Dawson's basket keyed a decisive 8-0 run for the hosts. Jamarques Lawrence's 3-pointer gave NU a 52-49 lead it wouldn't relinquish before an Emmanuel Bandoumel basket and a Wilhelm Breidenbach free throw put NU up 55-49 with 5:14 left.&nbsp;The game featured 13 lead changes and eight ties as neither team led by more than six points the entire evening. The&nbsp; Huskers held OSU without a field goal for over six and half minutes down the stretch and hit just enough free throws in the final two minutes to earn a second straight win over the Buckeyes. OSU closed to within 62-60 with 12.7 seconds remaining after a pair of free throws from Sean McNeil. C.J. Wilcher split a pair of free throws with 12.2 seconds remaining and the Huskers held on for a crucial home win.