Story by NU Athletic Communications

Madison, Wis.&nbsp;- Natalie Potts scored all of her game-high 16 points in the second half, while Alexis Markowski produced her 30th career double-double to power Nebraska to a 69-57 Big Ten women's basketball road win at the Kohl Center on Thursday night.

With the victory, Nebraska improved to 3-0 in the Big Ten for the first time since NU's first season in the conference (2011-12), while moving to 11-3 overall. Wisconsin slipped to 7-6 and 0-3 in the league.

Markowski, a 6-3 center from Lincoln, Neb., finished with 13 points and a game-high 11 rebounds for her Big Ten-leading ninth double-double of the season. She put up 11 points and eight rebounds in the first half to help Nebraska a 14-point lead before taking a 38-27 edge to the locker room at halftime.

In the second half, Potts scored Nebraska's first eight points but Wisconsin cut NU's lead to just 49-47 at the end of three quarters. Potts kept pushing in the fourth quarter, scoring eight more points. Her third field goal of the quarter pushed NU's lead to 61-53 with 1:35 left. She then scored her final points of the night at the free throw line to cap the scoring with about 20 seconds left to seal NU's eighth consecutive win in the series with the Badgers.

Leading 56-53, Potts pushed the margin to five points before Callin Hake scored to extend the lead to 59-53 with 5:07 left. Hake continued her strong play off the bench by finishing with eight points.

Darian White also made winning plays at both ends in the fourth quarter, scoring four of her six points, while Kendall Coley added six big first-half points to help the Huskers build their double-digit lead in the first 20 minutes. All 11 Huskers scored in the game, including five points, four rebounds and six assists from Jaz Shelley.

As a team, Nebraska hit 43.9 percent (25-57) of its shots from the field, including 9-of-27 (.333) three-pointers. The Huskers also won the turnover battle, 14-11. NU held Wisconsin to 36.1 percent (22-61) shooting for the game, including 7-of-33 threes (.212). UW won the war on the boards 38-36, including nine rebounds to go with 16 points from Serah Williams.

Ronnie Porter added 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for the Badgers, while Brooke Schramek contributed 12 points.

The Huskers will be back in action at home on Sunday to take on Big Ten unbeaten and No. 14 Indiana. Tip-off between Nebraska and the Hoosiers is set for 1 p.m., with a special pregame ceremony honoring All-American Jordan Hooper with the retirement of her No. 35 jersey beginning at approximately 12:40 p.m. (CT). Tickets are available now at Huskers.com.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsMadison, Wis.&nbsp;- Natalie Potts scored all of her game-high 16 points in the second half, while Alexis Markowski produced her 30th career double-double to power Nebraska to a 69-57 Big Ten women's basketball road win at the Kohl Center on Thursday night.With the victory, Nebraska improved to 3-0 in the Big Ten for the first time since NU's first season in the conference (2011-12), while moving to 11-3 overall. Wisconsin slipped to 7-6 and 0-3 in the league.Markowski, a 6-3 center from Lincoln, Neb., finished with 13 points and a game-high 11 rebounds for her Big Ten-leading ninth double-double of the season. She put up 11 points and eight rebounds in the first half to help Nebraska a 14-point lead before taking a 38-27 edge to the locker room at halftime.In the second half, Potts scored Nebraska's first eight points but Wisconsin cut NU's lead to just 49-47 at the end of three quarters. Potts kept pushing in the fourth quarter, scoring eight more points. Her third field goal of the quarter pushed NU's lead to 61-53 with 1:35 left. She then scored her final points of the night at the free throw line to cap the scoring with about 20 seconds left to seal NU's eighth consecutive win in the series with the Badgers.Leading 56-53, Potts pushed the margin to five points before Callin Hake scored to extend the lead to 59-53 with 5:07 left. Hake continued her strong play off the bench by finishing with eight points.Darian White also made winning plays at both ends in the fourth quarter, scoring four of her six points, while Kendall Coley added six big first-half points to help the Huskers build their double-digit lead in the first 20 minutes. All 11 Huskers scored in the game, including five points, four rebounds and six assists from Jaz Shelley.As a team, Nebraska hit 43.9 percent (25-57) of its shots from the field, including 9-of-27 (.333) three-pointers. The Huskers also won the turnover battle, 14-11. NU held Wisconsin to 36.1 percent (22-61) shooting for the game, including 7-of-33 threes (.212). UW won the war on the boards 38-36, including nine rebounds to go with 16 points from Serah Williams.Ronnie Porter added 10 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for the Badgers, while Brooke Schramek contributed 12 points.The Huskers will be back in action at home on Sunday to take on Big Ten unbeaten and No. 14 Indiana. Tip-off between Nebraska and the Hoosiers is set for 1 p.m., with a special pregame ceremony honoring All-American Jordan Hooper with the retirement of her No. 35 jersey beginning at approximately 12:40 p.m. (CT). Tickets are available now at Huskers.com.

Huskers beat Badgers for 3-0 Big Ten start

KEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm is set to open play in the 2024 calendar year tonight with the first of two home games this weekend against the Under-17 team from the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP/Team USA). Tonight’s game will mark the first time the Storm has hosted Team USA at the Viaero Center since November 23rd, 2019. Tickets for tonight’s battle may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office Hours at 308-338-8144. Puck drop for tonight’s matchup is set for 7:05pm CT. &nbsp;

Tri-City (13-11-1-2) dropped a shootout decision to the Lincoln Stars last Sunday at the Viaero Center to fall to 3-5-0-2 in the team’s last ten games played. Ryan Smith netted the Storm’s lone goal of the matchup on the powerplay during Sunday’s opening period. The Storm enters this weekend’s set of home games against Team USA as the 5th&nbsp;place team in the USHL’s Western Conference standings. Tri-City is 10-6-0-2 when scoring the first goal of the game through the opening twenty-seven games of the season. The Storm seeks to defeat Team USA for the first time in 1,140 days in tonight’s showdown at the Viaero Center. Scoring leaders for Tri-City heading into the 2024 portion of the 2023-2024 regular season schedule include Ryan Smith (12), August Falloon (11), Trevor Connelly (9), Cam Briere (9), Artemi Nizameyev (8), and Owen Beckner (7). The Storm will also play host to the Lincoln Stars on Thursday, January 11th, 2024, following this weekend’s home series against Team USA at the Viaero Center. &nbsp;

Team USA (11-13-1-1) enters tonight’s road game at the Viaero Center in 7th&nbsp;place in the USHL’s Eastern Conference standings. The Under-17s of the United States National Team Development Program have posted a 2-9-1-1 record in league play this season, while the Under-18 team has produced a record of 9-4-0-0 in USHL games this year. The Under-17 team, the Storm’s opponent for both games this weekend, is currently 13-10-3-2 overall on the 2023-2024 schedule. The overall team record for the Under-17’s includes games played against USHL, NAHL, and International competition. The Under-17 team is winless in four previous games against USHL Western Conference competition entering this weekend’s series (0-3-0-1). Scoring leaders for the Under-17’s team this season include Will Moore (14), LJ Mooney (12), Charlies Fondrk (10), Cole McKinney (10), Charlie Trethewey (9), and Jack Murtagh (9). The Under-17 team will return to action after this weekend’s road series against the Storm next weekend with back-to-back home games against the Dubuque Fighting Saints at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

Story by Tri-City CommunicationsKEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm is set to open play in the 2024 calendar year tonight with the first of two home games this weekend against the Under-17 team from the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP/Team USA). Tonight’s game will mark the first time the Storm has hosted Team USA at the Viaero Center since November 23rd, 2019. Tickets for tonight’s battle may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office Hours at 308-338-8144. Puck drop for tonight’s matchup is set for 7:05pm CT. &nbsp;Tri-City (13-11-1-2) dropped a shootout decision to the Lincoln Stars last Sunday at the Viaero Center to fall to 3-5-0-2 in the team’s last ten games played. Ryan Smith netted the Storm’s lone goal of the matchup on the powerplay during Sunday’s opening period. The Storm enters this weekend’s set of home games against Team USA as the 5th&nbsp;place team in the USHL’s Western Conference standings. Tri-City is 10-6-0-2 when scoring the first goal of the game through the opening twenty-seven games of the season. The Storm seeks to defeat Team USA for the first time in 1,140 days in tonight’s showdown at the Viaero Center. Scoring leaders for Tri-City heading into the 2024 portion of the 2023-2024 regular season schedule include Ryan Smith (12), August Falloon (11), Trevor Connelly (9), Cam Briere (9), Artemi Nizameyev (8), and Owen Beckner (7). The Storm will also play host to the Lincoln Stars on Thursday, January 11th, 2024, following this weekend’s home series against Team USA at the Viaero Center. &nbsp;Team USA (11-13-1-1) enters tonight’s road game at the Viaero Center in 7th&nbsp;place in the USHL’s Eastern Conference standings. The Under-17s of the United States National Team Development Program have posted a 2-9-1-1 record in league play this season, while the Under-18 team has produced a record of 9-4-0-0 in USHL games this year. The Under-17 team, the Storm’s opponent for both games this weekend, is currently 13-10-3-2 overall on the 2023-2024 schedule. The overall team record for the Under-17’s includes games played against USHL, NAHL, and International competition. The Under-17 team is winless in four previous games against USHL Western Conference competition entering this weekend’s series (0-3-0-1). Scoring leaders for the Under-17’s team this season include Will Moore (14), LJ Mooney (12), Charlies Fondrk (10), Cole McKinney (10), Charlie Trethewey (9), and Jack Murtagh (9). The Under-17 team will return to action after this weekend’s road series against the Storm next weekend with back-to-back home games against the Dubuque Fighting Saints at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tonight’s game is set to begin at&nbsp;7:05pm&nbsp;CT and will be streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://flosports.link/3pkG3Ge" target="_blank">FloHockey</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://mixlr.com/tri-city-storm/" target="_blank">Storm Radio</a>. Tickets to home games at the Viaero Center may be purchased online by skating to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office during Box Office hours at 308-338-8144.&nbsp;The Tri-City Storm is presented by Viaero Wireless.

Storm set to open 2024 with Home Series against Team USA 

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The Lincoln Blue Tigers used a couple of big runs and feasted on turnovers to down Nebraska Kearney,&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=7556" target="_blank">90-67</a>, Thursday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.LU (9-3, 4-2) stops a two-game skid and beats UNK (5-7, 2-5) for the sixth time in the last eight meetings. The two will meet again Feb. 17 in Jefferson City, Mo. A jumper from junior lefty&nbsp;Damiri Lindo&nbsp;(Oakland) and a wing three from junior lefty&nbsp;Taden&nbsp;King&nbsp;(Rexburg, Idaho) made it a 61-53 game with 11:40 to play. The back-to-back shots, as well as a defensive stop, forced Lincoln to call timeout. The break worked as the Blue Tigers closed on a 29-14 run. In the first half, LU not only erased a 24-21 deficit but went into the locker after a 13-3 spurt. A buzzer beating triple by junior reserve guard Tyson Robinson capped that key stretch. “The biggest problem was the turnovers. When you give a team 28 points off your turnovers, it’s tough to win a game,” said UNK interim head coach&nbsp;Antoine Young. “Up until halftime I thought we controlled the boards and that allowed us to get out and run. We were kind of in the game at that point.” Having four players score in double digits, Lincoln tallied 28 points off 16&nbsp;Loper&nbsp;miscues. Many of the turnovers were of the live ball variety with five coming over the last 11:40. Lincoln capitalized on each, scoring 11 points. They also finished plus 12 on the glass. “While they are a good a team and have some athleticism, I don’t think it was their defense. We had some lackadaisical turnovers that you just can’t have in this league,” said Young. “I’m trying to find that happy medium (playing the young guys). They are good players, and you must give them a chance to get out there. But they must understand when you go out there, we can’t allow a 13-3 run.” Six-eight, 270-pound senior forward Elijah Farr, who previously was at Division I Murray (Ky.) State and Western Illinois, scored a game-high 20 thanks to 8 of 13 shooting. A load to handle around the rim, he also hit a three, had five caroms and dished out three assists. Next, junior reserve guard Trey Boston went for 15 points on 6 of 11 shooting with French junior Franck&nbsp;Yetna&nbsp;(14) and veteran guard DJ Richardson (13) combining for 27 more points. As a team, LU shot 55% from the field and went 11 of 12 at the line. “We’re averaging close to 70 points per game so we can score with anybody. But we’re putting so much pressure on our offense to score 90 every night because we’re giving up close to that,” said Young. “We have to clean that up.” UNK also had a balanced attack as four starters reached double digits with four others scoring as well. King and New Zealand junior forward&nbsp;Sean Murphy&nbsp;had 13 apiece with Lindo at 11 and junior guard&nbsp;Sean Evans&nbsp;(Parker, Colo.) finishing with 12. Finally, Lindo had a team-best five rebounds with junior point guard&nbsp;Miguel Robles&nbsp;(East L.A.) at a team-best seven assists. UNK hosts Central Missouri on Saturday afternoon. The Mules (5-6, 0-5) lost tonight at Fort Hays State, 61-51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The Lincoln Blue Tigers used a couple of big runs and feasted on turnovers to down Nebraska Kearney,&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=7556" target="_blank">90-67</a>, Thursday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.LU (9-3, 4-2) stops a two-game skid and beats UNK (5-7, 2-5) for the sixth time in the last eight meetings. The two will meet again Feb. 17 in Jefferson City, Mo. A jumper from junior lefty&nbsp;Damiri Lindo&nbsp;(Oakland) and a wing three from junior lefty&nbsp;Taden&nbsp;King&nbsp;(Rexburg, Idaho) made it a 61-53 game with 11:40 to play. The back-to-back shots, as well as a defensive stop, forced Lincoln to call timeout. The break worked as the Blue Tigers closed on a 29-14 run. In the first half, LU not only erased a 24-21 deficit but went into the locker after a 13-3 spurt. A buzzer beating triple by junior reserve guard Tyson Robinson capped that key stretch. “The biggest problem was the turnovers. When you give a team 28 points off your turnovers, it’s tough to win a game,” said UNK interim head coach&nbsp;Antoine Young. “Up until halftime I thought we controlled the boards and that allowed us to get out and run. We were kind of in the game at that point.” Having four players score in double digits, Lincoln tallied 28 points off 16&nbsp;Loper&nbsp;miscues. Many of the turnovers were of the live ball variety with five coming over the last 11:40. Lincoln capitalized on each, scoring 11 points. They also finished plus 12 on the glass. “While they are a good a team and have some athleticism, I don’t think it was their defense. We had some lackadaisical turnovers that you just can’t have in this league,” said Young. “I’m trying to find that happy medium (playing the young guys). They are good players, and you must give them a chance to get out there. But they must understand when you go out there, we can’t allow a 13-3 run.” Six-eight, 270-pound senior forward Elijah Farr, who previously was at Division I Murray (Ky.) State and Western Illinois, scored a game-high 20 thanks to 8 of 13 shooting. A load to handle around the rim, he also hit a three, had five caroms and dished out three assists. Next, junior reserve guard Trey Boston went for 15 points on 6 of 11 shooting with French junior Franck&nbsp;Yetna&nbsp;(14) and veteran guard DJ Richardson (13) combining for 27 more points. As a team, LU shot 55% from the field and went 11 of 12 at the line. “We’re averaging close to 70 points per game so we can score with anybody. But we’re putting so much pressure on our offense to score 90 every night because we’re giving up close to that,” said Young. “We have to clean that up.” UNK also had a balanced attack as four starters reached double digits with four others scoring as well. King and New Zealand junior forward&nbsp;Sean Murphy&nbsp;had 13 apiece with Lindo at 11 and junior guard&nbsp;Sean Evans&nbsp;(Parker, Colo.) finishing with 12. Finally, Lindo had a team-best five rebounds with junior point guard&nbsp;Miguel Robles&nbsp;(East L.A.) at a team-best seven assists. UNK hosts Central Missouri on Saturday afternoon. The Mules (5-6, 0-5) lost tonight at Fort Hays State, 61-51.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Double digit turnovers leads Lopers to loss against Blue Tigers

Sandhills/Thedford 67, South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 30

South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 56, Sandhills/Thedford 43

<h2>Girls Basketball</h2>Garden County 32, Hemingford 31Leyton 52, Paxton 39Sandhills/Thedford 67, South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 30<h2>Boys Basketball</h2>Hemingford 66, Garden County 46Paxton 67, Leyton 44South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 56, Sandhills/Thedford 43

Area Sports scores 1-4-2024

Story by UNK Athletic Communication

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://nwcaonline.com/news/2023/12/22/ncaa-division-2-men-central-oklahoma-west-liberty-tied-for-top-spot-in-division-ii-coaches-rankings.aspx?utm_source=Social+Media/eBlast&amp;utm_medium=Facebook,+Instagram,+Twitter,+MailChimp&amp;utm_campaign=d2_mens_rankings" target="_blank">now seventh-ranked</a>&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Kearney&nbsp;wrestling team is the sixth seed in this weekend's National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA)/U.S. Marine Corps Multi-Division National Duals. The event runs Friday-Saturday (Jan. 5-6) at Northern Iowa's UNI-Dome and is hosted by NUWAY. Fans not in attendance can watch the action via&nbsp;<a href="https://flosports.link/3GoFKCT" target="_blank">FloWrestling</a>&nbsp;or following along with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/teamtournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=772827132" target="_blank">live results</a>. There are&nbsp;brackets for six divisions: NAIA men and women, NCAA Division II and III men, NCAA women and&nbsp;NCWA&nbsp;men. UNK (5-2), now with two-time All-Americans&nbsp;Nick James&nbsp;(141 lbs.) and&nbsp;Billy Higgins&nbsp;(184 lbs.) ready to go, will face&nbsp;Glenville&nbsp;(W.V.) State Friday at 2 p.m. in the opening round. The Pioneers are ranked 25th nationally and feature fifth-ranked Gavin Quiocho (133 lbs.) and 10th-ranked Guy Deleonardis (157 lbs.).With a win or a loss, the&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;wrestle again at 4 p.m. against either third-ranked Lander (S.C.) or 20th-ranked&nbsp;Tiffin&nbsp;(Ohio). Lander has been ranked number one for most of this year and is defending national runners up. The TU Dragons, meanwhile, are led by top-ranked Zach Donathan (141 lbs.).The semifinals are set for Saturday at 10 a.m. with finals and the third-place match set for 3 p.m. Fourth-ranked&nbsp;Wisconsin-Parkside&nbsp;is not taking part this year, thus the reason for UNK being the sixth&nbsp;seed&nbsp;instead of seventh.&nbsp;In the national rankings, besides James (seventh), are&nbsp;Crew Howard&nbsp;(2nd/285 lbs.),&nbsp;Jackson Kinsella&nbsp;(5th/197 lbs.),&nbsp;Zach Ourada&nbsp;(6th/125 lbs.) and&nbsp;Jacobi Deal&nbsp;(9th/174 lbs.). Higgins would be ranked but didn't compete in the first semester due to injury. Those&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;not in Iowa will wrestle Saturday at the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/opentournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=784522132" target="_blank">Hastings Open</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://nwcaonline.com/news/2023/12/22/ncaa-division-2-men-central-oklahoma-west-liberty-tied-for-top-spot-in-division-ii-coaches-rankings.aspx?utm_source=Social+Media/eBlast&amp;utm_medium=Facebook,+Instagram,+Twitter,+MailChimp&amp;utm_campaign=d2_mens_rankings" target="_blank">now seventh-ranked</a>&nbsp;Nebraska&nbsp;Kearney&nbsp;wrestling team is the sixth seed in this weekend's National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA)/U.S. Marine Corps Multi-Division National Duals. The event runs Friday-Saturday (Jan. 5-6) at Northern Iowa's UNI-Dome and is hosted by NUWAY. Fans not in attendance can watch the action via&nbsp;<a href="https://flosports.link/3GoFKCT" target="_blank">FloWrestling</a>&nbsp;or following along with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/teamtournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=772827132" target="_blank">live results</a>. There are&nbsp;brackets for six divisions: NAIA men and women, NCAA Division II and III men, NCAA women and&nbsp;NCWA&nbsp;men. UNK (5-2), now with two-time All-Americans&nbsp;Nick James&nbsp;(141 lbs.) and&nbsp;Billy Higgins&nbsp;(184 lbs.) ready to go, will face&nbsp;Glenville&nbsp;(W.V.) State Friday at 2 p.m. in the opening round. The Pioneers are ranked 25th nationally and feature fifth-ranked Gavin Quiocho (133 lbs.) and 10th-ranked Guy Deleonardis (157 lbs.).With a win or a loss, the&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;wrestle again at 4 p.m. against either third-ranked Lander (S.C.) or 20th-ranked&nbsp;Tiffin&nbsp;(Ohio). Lander has been ranked number one for most of this year and is defending national runners up. The TU Dragons, meanwhile, are led by top-ranked Zach Donathan (141 lbs.).The semifinals are set for Saturday at 10 a.m. with finals and the third-place match set for 3 p.m. Fourth-ranked&nbsp;Wisconsin-Parkside&nbsp;is not taking part this year, thus the reason for UNK being the sixth&nbsp;seed&nbsp;instead of seventh.&nbsp;In the national rankings, besides James (seventh), are&nbsp;Crew Howard&nbsp;(2nd/285 lbs.),&nbsp;Jackson Kinsella&nbsp;(5th/197 lbs.),&nbsp;Zach Ourada&nbsp;(6th/125 lbs.) and&nbsp;Jacobi Deal&nbsp;(9th/174 lbs.). Higgins would be ranked but didn't compete in the first semester due to injury. Those&nbsp;Lopers&nbsp;not in Iowa will wrestle Saturday at the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trackwrestling.com/tw/opentournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=784522132" target="_blank">Hastings Open</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

UNK Wrestling secure top-10 ranking

Behind a season-high 28 points from Keisei Tominaga, Nebraska improved to 12-2 on the season with an 86-70 win over Indiana Wednesday night at Pinnacle Bank Arena.&nbsp;

Tominaga had 18 of his 28 in the second half, as Nebraska matched a season high with 12 3-pointers en route to its first win over Indiana since 2019. &nbsp;

He hit a season-high four 3-pointers, including three in the second half, as he fell two points shy of his career high in helping Nebraska build a 22-point lead before cruising to a 16-point win. The 12-2 start matches NU’s best 14-game start since 1990-91.&nbsp;

Tominaga was one of four Huskers in double figures, as Brice Williams added 15 points, six boards and four steals, while Jamarques Lawrence and C.J. Wilcher added 12 and 11 markers, respectively. &nbsp;Lawrence also set a career high with four steals.&nbsp;

The Huskers had 15 steals and forced Indiana (10-4, 2-1) into 19 turnovers, leading to 27 Husker points.&nbsp;

The Huskers trailed 9-4 in the opening minutes before running off seven straight points, including four from Brice Williams, who played just five minutes in the first half because of foul trouble.&nbsp;

The Huskers continued to build a lead behind the shooting of C.J Wilcher, who had eight straight Husker points as his third 3-pointer of the night gave NU a 30-21 lead with 7:22 left in the half. Wilcher had all 11 of his points in the first 20 minutes.&nbsp;

Nebraska eventually stretched to lead to 10 on a pair of occasions, the last being on a Keisei Tominaga free throw with 1:11 left in the half, as the senior guard had 10 first-half points.

Nebraska got off to a quick start as a Wiilliams 3-pointer and a Tominanga jumper stretched the lead to 13 and forced an Indiana timeout less than two minutes into the second half. &nbsp;

Indiana whittled to Husker lead to 55-47 after a 3-pointer from Makik Reneau with 13:12 left, but a 3-pointer from Williams and three free throws from Sam Hoiberg extended the margin back to 61-47 with 11:41 left.&nbsp;

The Hoosiers, who saw their three-game win streak snapped, was within 64-53 before Tominaga keyed a 9-0 run with six straight points before a Williams 3-pointer made it 73-54 with just under seven minutes remaining.

Kel’el Ware led Indiana with 20 points and 10 rebounds while Reneau added 14 points in the loss.&nbsp;

The Huskers return to action and continue Big Ten play when they travel to No. 21 Wisconsin on Saturday, Jan. 6. Tipoff is set for 1:15 p.m. (CT) and the game will be carried on the Huskers Radio Network and BTN.&nbsp;

Nebraska’s next home game is Tuesday, Jan. 9, when No. 1 Purdue comes to town. Tickets are still available for the matchup by visiting Huskers.com/Tickets

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsBehind a season-high 28 points from Keisei Tominaga, Nebraska improved to 12-2 on the season with an 86-70 win over Indiana Wednesday night at Pinnacle Bank Arena.&nbsp;Tominaga had 18 of his 28 in the second half, as Nebraska matched a season high with 12 3-pointers en route to its first win over Indiana since 2019. &nbsp;He hit a season-high four 3-pointers, including three in the second half, as he fell two points shy of his career high in helping Nebraska build a 22-point lead before cruising to a 16-point win. The 12-2 start matches NU’s best 14-game start since 1990-91.&nbsp;Tominaga was one of four Huskers in double figures, as Brice Williams added 15 points, six boards and four steals, while Jamarques Lawrence and C.J. Wilcher added 12 and 11 markers, respectively. &nbsp;Lawrence also set a career high with four steals.&nbsp;The Huskers had 15 steals and forced Indiana (10-4, 2-1) into 19 turnovers, leading to 27 Husker points.&nbsp;The Huskers trailed 9-4 in the opening minutes before running off seven straight points, including four from Brice Williams, who played just five minutes in the first half because of foul trouble.&nbsp;The Huskers continued to build a lead behind the shooting of C.J Wilcher, who had eight straight Husker points as his third 3-pointer of the night gave NU a 30-21 lead with 7:22 left in the half. Wilcher had all 11 of his points in the first 20 minutes.&nbsp;Nebraska eventually stretched to lead to 10 on a pair of occasions, the last being on a Keisei Tominaga free throw with 1:11 left in the half, as the senior guard had 10 first-half points.Nebraska got off to a quick start as a Wiilliams 3-pointer and a Tominanga jumper stretched the lead to 13 and forced an Indiana timeout less than two minutes into the second half. &nbsp;Indiana whittled to Husker lead to 55-47 after a 3-pointer from Makik Reneau with 13:12 left, but a 3-pointer from Williams and three free throws from Sam Hoiberg extended the margin back to 61-47 with 11:41 left.&nbsp;The Hoosiers, who saw their three-game win streak snapped, was within 64-53 before Tominaga keyed a 9-0 run with six straight points before a Williams 3-pointer made it 73-54 with just under seven minutes remaining.Kel’el Ware led Indiana with 20 points and 10 rebounds while Reneau added 14 points in the loss.&nbsp;The Huskers return to action and continue Big Ten play when they travel to No. 21 Wisconsin on Saturday, Jan. 6. Tipoff is set for 1:15 p.m. (CT) and the game will be carried on the Huskers Radio Network and BTN.&nbsp;Nebraska’s next home game is Tuesday, Jan. 9, when No. 1 Purdue comes to town. Tickets are still available for the matchup by visiting Huskers.com/Tickets<h2>RELATED STORI</h2>

Huskers secure big victory over Indiana

McCook Community College Athletics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ogallala native Gabby Caskey commits to University of Mary for volleyball

Chase County 35, Dundy County Stratton 26

Hershey 43, South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 29

Dundy County Stratton 51, Chase County 35

South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 62, Hershey 42

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

Area Sports scores from January 2nd

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communication

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supernovas finalize roster ahead of inaugural Training Camp

Story by North Platte 80's Communication



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

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

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

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

North Platte 80s release their inaugural 2024 schedule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Huskers set 2024 spring schedule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Three Huskers post double-double in win over Maryland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Story by Tri-City Storm Communications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Storm returns to action against First-Place Force 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Story by Pro Volleyball Federation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;

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

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

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

Pro Volleyball Federation, USA Volleyball announce new alliance  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2023 Perkins County Holiday Tournament, Day 2 radio coverage 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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