The National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) and the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) announce the advancement of 12 coaches as finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year. The nominations were based on each coach’s career accomplishments through the 2022-23 athletic seasons (not retired more than two years prior).&nbsp; Two former Nebraska prep coaches will be honored by being inducted into the national high school coaching hall of fame as well.

Eight finalists from across the nation, in nineteen recognized sports categories will be honored during the National Coach of the Year Awards Banquet which will take place at the NHSACA’s national convention) in Bismarck on the evening of June 26. The highlight of the banquet will be the naming of the NHSACA national coach of the year in each sports category.

All Nebraska coaches were nominated for this national honor by the Nebraska Coaches Association.&nbsp; The selection is based on the following: career longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage. The nominees and finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using sport-specific rubrics to assign points in each category. NHSACA is the oldest coaches association in the nation formed by coaches, for coaches, and has been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

The National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) and the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) announce the advancement of 12 coaches as finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year. The nominations were based on each coach’s career accomplishments through the 2022-23 athletic seasons (not retired more than two years prior).&nbsp; Two former Nebraska prep coaches will be honored by being inducted into the national high school coaching hall of fame as well.<div><style type="text/css">
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 <th class="tg-vvzq">Doug</th>
 <th class="tg-0485">Woodard</th>
 <th class="tg-djd3">Boys Basketball</th>
 <th class="tg-djd3">Bellevue West</th>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Shane</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Fruit</td>
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 <td class="tg-djd3">Ogallala</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Dave</td>
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 <td class="tg-djd3">Fremont</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Mark</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Brahmer</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Football</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Pierce</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Joydene</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">McCarville</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Girls Assistant</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Sidney</td>
 </tr>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Brian</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Kabourek</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Girls Cross Country</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Kevin</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Schrad</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Girls Track and Field</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Lincoln Southwest</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Jacque</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Tevis-Butler</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Soccer</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Millard West</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Andrea</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Feltz</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Special Sports - Dance</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Millard North</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Troy</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Saulsbury</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Tennis</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Kearney</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Jake</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Moore</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Volleyball</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Ed</td>
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</table></div>Eight finalists from across the nation, in nineteen recognized sports categories will be honored during the National Coach of the Year Awards Banquet which will take place at the NHSACA’s national convention) in Bismarck on the evening of June 26. The highlight of the banquet will be the naming of the NHSACA national coach of the year in each sports category.All Nebraska coaches were nominated for this national honor by the Nebraska Coaches Association.&nbsp; The selection is based on the following: career longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage. The nominees and finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using sport-specific rubrics to assign points in each category. NHSACA is the oldest coaches association in the nation formed by coaches, for coaches, and has been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

Two area coaches announced as Coach of the Year Finalists

(AP) A National Labor Relations Board regional official ruled on Monday that Dartmouth basketball players are employees of the school, clearing the way for an election that would create the first-ever labor union for NCAA athletes.

All 15 members of the Dartmouth men’s basketball team signed a petition in September asking to join Local 560 of the Service Employees International Union, which already represents some other employees at the Ivy League school in Hanover, New Hampshire.

Unionizing would allow the players to negotiate not only over salary but working conditions, including practice hours and travel.

“Because Dartmouth has the right to control the work performed by the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the players perform that work in exchange for compensation, I find that the petitioned-for basketball players are employees within the meaning of the (National Labor Relations) Act,” NLRB Regional Director Laura Sacks wrote.

In a statement, Dartmouth basketball player representatives Cade Haskins and Romeo Myrthil called the ruling "a significant step forward for college athletes," adding, “we are excited to see how this decision will impact college sports nationwide.” They also announced plans to form the Ivy League Players Association for basketball players across the league.

“We believe that other athletes will recognize the opportunities this ruling presents and will be inspired to follow suit," the statement said. "This association aims to foster unity, advocate for athletes’ rights and well-being, and create a platform for collaborative decision-making. We look forward to working with our fellow Ivy League athletes to bring positive change to the landscape of college sports and the Ivy League.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">The NCAA</a>&nbsp;and universities across the country have been steadfast in insisting their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">athletes are students, not employees.</a>&nbsp;College sports leaders have even lobbied Congress for a federal law that would codify that classification as the NCAA faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-3d98cd455c2ed1c636ce46d8dd322100">a federal lawsuit in Pennsylvania</a>&nbsp;on the subject.

The Service Employees International Union petitioned the labor board on behalf of the Dartmouth players last year. SEIU international president Mary Kay Henry said they remain in full support of the unionization effort.

“This is an historic step forward for economic justice, racial justice, and union rights — not just for college athletes but for millions of young people across our country whose work is not valued like it should be,” she said in a statement.

The case is being closely watched, coming at a time when the NCAA's bedrock amateur athlete model is facing multiple challenges in court.

“It’s the first step to potential employee status for college athletes,” said Gabe Feldman, a sports law professor at Tulane.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dartmouth-basketball-union-employees-47e3269d1af0e8164614bb644046eda0">The school can still appeal</a>&nbsp;the regional director’s decision to the national board, which is what happened when members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3d0b541ce6ba44b380fb762e2ecd2641">Northwestern football team held a union election</a>&nbsp;in 2014.

In that case, the ballots were impounded pending a ruling. Now, an election can be held and ballots counted while an appeal is pending. The Northwestern ballots were destroyed after the NLRB, which only governs private employers, decided that allowing the football players at the only private school in the Big Ten would skew the labor market in the conference.

In that case, the NLRB did not address the question of whether the players were employees. All eight Ivy League schools are private and do not grant athletic scholarships. Feldman said that could increase the likelihood the full board will uphold the ruling.

“But on the flip side, if Dartmouth men's basketball players are employees, not only what athletes are not employees, but does this make the music students employees?” Feldman said. “So this may open the door too far?”

There is a complaint before a different NLRB body in California that claims football and basketball&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-national-labor-relations-board-fd838566121436f2b54099a0695b36e1">players at Southern California</a>&nbsp;should be deemed employees of the school, the Pac-12 Conference in which they play and the NCAA. That hearing resumes later this month.

In a 2021 memo, the NLRB’s top lawyer said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-business-sports-football-national-labor-relations-board-02a278af8ae90bb18e33770fd5154366">college athletes should be considered employees.</a>

“The freedom to engage in far-reaching and lucrative business enterprises makes players at academic institutions much more similar to professional athletes who are employed by a team to play a sport,” NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo wrote.

During a four-day hearing in October, Dartmouth argued that the players shouldn’t be considered employees because athletics are part of the academic mission of the school, like performing in the orchestra or even playing club sports.

“At Dartmouth, students’ primary objective is learning,” school attorney Joe McConnell said then. “Dartmouth has adopted policies reflecting that students who participate in intercollegiate athletics are students first and athletes second.”

The college also said the men’s basketball program loses money. Attorneys for the players countered that the school’s numbers leave out important and lucrative revenue streams that the basketball team contributes to. What’s more, the players say it’s not whether the team turned a profit: What matters is if the program brings in revenue, and also whether coaches have control over the players.

The collegiate sports model based on amateurism is facing numerous legal and political threats, along with the NLRB ruling. The NCAA is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-legal-antitrust-lawsuit-tennessee-virginia-913a630c035f4598212ce6ff950ebeeb">at least six antitrust lawsuits,</a>&nbsp;including one brought last week by attorneys general from Tennessee and Virginia that challenges how recruits can be compensated for name, image and likeness.

The model has been crumbling, most significantly after a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that opened college sports up to additional — though still limited — kinds of pay. In response, the NCAA loosened rules to permitted players to profit from their celebrity.

“I think they’re all different sides to a similar threat,” Feldman said. “And the threat is the loss of control over the ability to restrict compensation to athletes. And we are closer than we’ve ever been to a system where college athletes not only receive significant additional compensation, but also have a vote in how much compensation they receive.”

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark said in a statement that the ruling shows “college athletes are employees, entitled to basic rights and fair compensation for their labor that has created a multibillion-dollar industry.”

“Today’s landmark NLRB ruling will improve the lives of all college athletes for generations to come,” Clark's statement said. “In the history of the sports labor movement, change has always been initiated by the courageous efforts of Players who decided to stand up and demand their fair share.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707232139014.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>(AP) A National Labor Relations Board regional official ruled on Monday that Dartmouth basketball players are employees of the school, clearing the way for an election that would create the first-ever labor union for NCAA athletes.All 15 members of the Dartmouth men’s basketball team signed a petition in September asking to join Local 560 of the Service Employees International Union, which already represents some other employees at the Ivy League school in Hanover, New Hampshire.Unionizing would allow the players to negotiate not only over salary but working conditions, including practice hours and travel.“Because Dartmouth has the right to control the work performed by the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the players perform that work in exchange for compensation, I find that the petitioned-for basketball players are employees within the meaning of the (National Labor Relations) Act,” NLRB Regional Director Laura Sacks wrote.In a statement, Dartmouth basketball player representatives Cade Haskins and Romeo Myrthil called the ruling "a significant step forward for college athletes," adding, “we are excited to see how this decision will impact college sports nationwide.” They also announced plans to form the Ivy League Players Association for basketball players across the league.“We believe that other athletes will recognize the opportunities this ruling presents and will be inspired to follow suit," the statement said. "This association aims to foster unity, advocate for athletes’ rights and well-being, and create a platform for collaborative decision-making. We look forward to working with our fellow Ivy League athletes to bring positive change to the landscape of college sports and the Ivy League.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">The NCAA</a>&nbsp;and universities across the country have been steadfast in insisting their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">athletes are students, not employees.</a>&nbsp;College sports leaders have even lobbied Congress for a federal law that would codify that classification as the NCAA faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-3d98cd455c2ed1c636ce46d8dd322100">a federal lawsuit in Pennsylvania</a>&nbsp;on the subject.The Service Employees International Union petitioned the labor board on behalf of the Dartmouth players last year. SEIU international president Mary Kay Henry said they remain in full support of the unionization effort.“This is an historic step forward for economic justice, racial justice, and union rights — not just for college athletes but for millions of young people across our country whose work is not valued like it should be,” she said in a statement.The case is being closely watched, coming at a time when the NCAA's bedrock amateur athlete model is facing multiple challenges in court.“It’s the first step to potential employee status for college athletes,” said Gabe Feldman, a sports law professor at Tulane.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dartmouth-basketball-union-employees-47e3269d1af0e8164614bb644046eda0">The school can still appeal</a>&nbsp;the regional director’s decision to the national board, which is what happened when members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3d0b541ce6ba44b380fb762e2ecd2641">Northwestern football team held a union election</a>&nbsp;in 2014.In that case, the ballots were impounded pending a ruling. Now, an election can be held and ballots counted while an appeal is pending. The Northwestern ballots were destroyed after the NLRB, which only governs private employers, decided that allowing the football players at the only private school in the Big Ten would skew the labor market in the conference.In that case, the NLRB did not address the question of whether the players were employees. All eight Ivy League schools are private and do not grant athletic scholarships. Feldman said that could increase the likelihood the full board will uphold the ruling.“But on the flip side, if Dartmouth men's basketball players are employees, not only what athletes are not employees, but does this make the music students employees?” Feldman said. “So this may open the door too far?”There is a complaint before a different NLRB body in California that claims football and basketball&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-national-labor-relations-board-fd838566121436f2b54099a0695b36e1">players at Southern California</a>&nbsp;should be deemed employees of the school, the Pac-12 Conference in which they play and the NCAA. That hearing resumes later this month.In a 2021 memo, the NLRB’s top lawyer said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-business-sports-football-national-labor-relations-board-02a278af8ae90bb18e33770fd5154366">college athletes should be considered employees.</a>“The freedom to engage in far-reaching and lucrative business enterprises makes players at academic institutions much more similar to professional athletes who are employed by a team to play a sport,” NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo wrote.During a four-day hearing in October, Dartmouth argued that the players shouldn’t be considered employees because athletics are part of the academic mission of the school, like performing in the orchestra or even playing club sports.“At Dartmouth, students’ primary objective is learning,” school attorney Joe McConnell said then. “Dartmouth has adopted policies reflecting that students who participate in intercollegiate athletics are students first and athletes second.”The college also said the men’s basketball program loses money. Attorneys for the players countered that the school’s numbers leave out important and lucrative revenue streams that the basketball team contributes to. What’s more, the players say it’s not whether the team turned a profit: What matters is if the program brings in revenue, and also whether coaches have control over the players.The collegiate sports model based on amateurism is facing numerous legal and political threats, along with the NLRB ruling. The NCAA is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-legal-antitrust-lawsuit-tennessee-virginia-913a630c035f4598212ce6ff950ebeeb">at least six antitrust lawsuits,</a>&nbsp;including one brought last week by attorneys general from Tennessee and Virginia that challenges how recruits can be compensated for name, image and likeness.The model has been crumbling, most significantly after a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that opened college sports up to additional — though still limited — kinds of pay. In response, the NCAA loosened rules to permitted players to profit from their celebrity.“I think they’re all different sides to a similar threat,” Feldman said. “And the threat is the loss of control over the ability to restrict compensation to athletes. And we are closer than we’ve ever been to a system where college athletes not only receive significant additional compensation, but also have a vote in how much compensation they receive.”Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark said in a statement that the ruling shows “college athletes are employees, entitled to basic rights and fair compensation for their labor that has created a multibillion-dollar industry.”“Today’s landmark NLRB ruling will improve the lives of all college athletes for generations to come,” Clark's statement said. “In the history of the sports labor movement, change has always been initiated by the courageous efforts of Players who decided to stand up and demand their fair share.”

In Depth: Labor official rules Dartmouth players are employees, what's next for college sports?

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College announces that Janelle Higgins is no longer serving as the head softball coach effective Monday, Feb. 5.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College announces that Janelle Higgins is no longer serving as the head softball coach effective Monday, Feb. 5.

NPCC announces coaching change

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Keisei Tominaga scored a career-high 31 points while Nebraska outscored No. 14 Illinois 11-1 in the final 3:28 of regulation to get to overtime before the Illini prevailed 87-84 Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Tominaga finished with a game-high 31 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 5-of-7 from 3-point range while Rienk Mast and Juwan Gary finished with 22 and 12 points, respectively for Nebraska (16-7, 6-6 Big Ten)&nbsp;

Coleman Hawkins led four Illinois (17-5, 8-3) players in double figures with 20 points and seven rebounds. Marcus Domask added 19 points, including a game-tying free throw with 3.1 seconds left in regulation.&nbsp;

The Huskers trailed 72-62 after a 3 pointer from Terrence Shannon Jr. with 3:29 left before mounting a furious comeback.

A 3-pointer from Brice Williams and a layup from Keisei Tominaga with 2:24 pulled Nebraska within 72-67. &nbsp;The Huskers got a stop on the defensive end before Mast was fouled and hit both free throws to make it all three-point game.

On Illinois’ next possession, Gary had a steal and was fouled as he converted both free throws to cut the deficit to one. After a couple of fouls, the Huskers got another steal as Josiah Allick came up with the ball and NU called timeout with 27.4 seconds left.&nbsp;

Gary, who posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards got Williams miss and Mast’s basket with 9.1 seconds remaining gave Nebraska a 73-72 advantage.&nbsp;

Illinois got the ball to Domask on the baseline, and he was fouled with 3.1 seconds left. &nbsp;He made the first to tie it up before missing the second to send the game to overtime. &nbsp;

Nebraska led briefly in the overtime period, as a Gary basket gave NU a 75-74 lead. &nbsp; Illinois responded with five straight points to build a 79-75 lead after Quincey Guerrier’s 3-pointer.&nbsp;

Nebraska would continue to fight as a Tominaga&nbsp;3-pointer and a Mast bucket cut the Illini advantage to 81-80 with 2:40 left on OT.&nbsp;

Nebraska was within 87-84 with under 20 seconds left before Shannon’s steal gave the Illini an opportunity to salt the game away with 1.7 seconds left. &nbsp;Shannon missed both free throws and Tominaga’s heave from 85 feet nearly sent the game to a second overtime.&nbsp;

Illinois came out red hot to open the second half, hitting its first six shots to take a 47-40 lead after a Hawkins 3-pointer just 3:28 into the second half.&nbsp;

Nebraska would regroup, using an 11-5 run to pull within 52-51 after a 3 pointer from Sam Hoiberg.&nbsp;

The Huskers were in striking distance and was within 66-60 before 3 pointers from Hawkins and Shannon stretched the lead to 10 with 3:29 left. Thats when the Huskers mounted the comeback to get the game to OT

In the first half, Nebraska held the Illini to 39.3 percent shooting, as the Huskers led for most of the half and took a 36-34 lead into the locker room.

Nebraska rode the hot hand of Tominaga in the first half, as he had 12 of the Huskers’ first 16 points as NU built a 12-6 lead after his second 3-pointer of the night with 13:39 left in the half.

Illinois ran off five straight points to regain the lead, but the Huskers could come back with a 7-0 run of their own and eventually built the margin to 26-19 after another Tominaga 3-pointer.&nbsp;

NU, which held Illinois to just one field goal over a seven-minute span, could not extend the lead, as the hosts got to the foul line 12 times in the first half to get within 28-27 after a Terrence Shannon Jr. dunk to force a Husker timeout.&nbsp;

The Huskers would have an answer as 3-pointers from Mast and Allick helped NU build a 36-29 lead with 2:24 left in the half, and the visitors took a two-point lead, at 36-34, into the half.&nbsp;

The Huskers will continue the two-game roadtrip on Wednesday, Feb. 7, as the Huskers travel to Northwestern. Tipoff from Welsh-Ryan Arena is set for 8 p.m. (central) and will be carried on BTN and the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;

Postgame Notes&nbsp;*-Nebraska improves falls to 1-2 in overtime games. Tonight was the Huskers’ second straight OT contest.&nbsp;

*-Juwan Gary posted his fourth double-double of the season and 7th of his career with 12 points and 11 rebounds.&nbsp;

*-Nebraska went a season-best 14-of-14 from the foul line.&nbsp;

*-Keisei Tominaga had a career-high 31 points, topping his previous career high of 30 against Penn State on Feb. 5, 2023. It was his fifth game of 20+ points this season.

*-With his five 3-pointers, he moved into the top-10 list of NU’s career chart with 149, passing both Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) and Cookie Belcher (146, 1997-2001). Tominaga’s five 3-pointers tied a career high set five previous times, most recently against Purdue on Jan. 9.

*-Nebraska had an 11-0 run to overcome a 10-point deficit and take the lead in the final seconds of regulation. It was NU’s 17th double-figure run this season.

*- Tominaga’s 31 points is the most by an Illini opponent this season (30, Isaiah Stafford of Valparaiso). He also set Illini opponent highs in 3 pointers (five) and free throws (eight) &nbsp;

*- Nebraska hit 12 3-pointers in tonight’s loss, marking the 13th time this year that NU has reached double figures in 3-pointers. &nbsp;

*- Nebraska now has 222 3-pointers this season, a total which is eighth on Husker single-season charts.

*- Nebraska went over 80 points for the 14th time this season. The Huskers fall to 12-2 with both losses coming in overtime (at Rutgers, at Illinois)

*- Nebraska finished with nine turnovers, marking the 11th time this season with 10 or fewer turnovers in a game.&nbsp;

*- Juwan Gary’s 12 points gave NU at least one bench player in double figures for the 20th time in 22 contests.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsKeisei Tominaga scored a career-high 31 points while Nebraska outscored No. 14 Illinois 11-1 in the final 3:28 of regulation to get to overtime before the Illini prevailed 87-84 Sunday evening.&nbsp;Tominaga finished with a game-high 31 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 5-of-7 from 3-point range while Rienk Mast and Juwan Gary finished with 22 and 12 points, respectively for Nebraska (16-7, 6-6 Big Ten)&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins led four Illinois (17-5, 8-3) players in double figures with 20 points and seven rebounds. Marcus Domask added 19 points, including a game-tying free throw with 3.1 seconds left in regulation.&nbsp;The Huskers trailed 72-62 after a 3 pointer from Terrence Shannon Jr. with 3:29 left before mounting a furious comeback.A 3-pointer from Brice Williams and a layup from Keisei Tominaga with 2:24 pulled Nebraska within 72-67. &nbsp;The Huskers got a stop on the defensive end before Mast was fouled and hit both free throws to make it all three-point game.On Illinois’ next possession, Gary had a steal and was fouled as he converted both free throws to cut the deficit to one. After a couple of fouls, the Huskers got another steal as Josiah Allick came up with the ball and NU called timeout with 27.4 seconds left.&nbsp;Gary, who posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards got Williams miss and Mast’s basket with 9.1 seconds remaining gave Nebraska a 73-72 advantage.&nbsp;Illinois got the ball to Domask on the baseline, and he was fouled with 3.1 seconds left. &nbsp;He made the first to tie it up before missing the second to send the game to overtime. &nbsp;Nebraska led briefly in the overtime period, as a Gary basket gave NU a 75-74 lead. &nbsp; Illinois responded with five straight points to build a 79-75 lead after Quincey Guerrier’s 3-pointer.&nbsp;Nebraska would continue to fight as a Tominaga&nbsp;3-pointer and a Mast bucket cut the Illini advantage to 81-80 with 2:40 left on OT.&nbsp;Nebraska was within 87-84 with under 20 seconds left before Shannon’s steal gave the Illini an opportunity to salt the game away with 1.7 seconds left. &nbsp;Shannon missed both free throws and Tominaga’s heave from 85 feet nearly sent the game to a second overtime.&nbsp;Illinois came out red hot to open the second half, hitting its first six shots to take a 47-40 lead after a Hawkins 3-pointer just 3:28 into the second half.&nbsp;Nebraska would regroup, using an 11-5 run to pull within 52-51 after a 3 pointer from Sam Hoiberg.&nbsp;The Huskers were in striking distance and was within 66-60 before 3 pointers from Hawkins and Shannon stretched the lead to 10 with 3:29 left. Thats when the Huskers mounted the comeback to get the game to OTIn the first half, Nebraska held the Illini to 39.3 percent shooting, as the Huskers led for most of the half and took a 36-34 lead into the locker room.Nebraska rode the hot hand of Tominaga in the first half, as he had 12 of the Huskers’ first 16 points as NU built a 12-6 lead after his second 3-pointer of the night with 13:39 left in the half.Illinois ran off five straight points to regain the lead, but the Huskers could come back with a 7-0 run of their own and eventually built the margin to 26-19 after another Tominaga 3-pointer.&nbsp;NU, which held Illinois to just one field goal over a seven-minute span, could not extend the lead, as the hosts got to the foul line 12 times in the first half to get within 28-27 after a Terrence Shannon Jr. dunk to force a Husker timeout.&nbsp;The Huskers would have an answer as 3-pointers from Mast and Allick helped NU build a 36-29 lead with 2:24 left in the half, and the visitors took a two-point lead, at 36-34, into the half.&nbsp;The Huskers will continue the two-game roadtrip on Wednesday, Feb. 7, as the Huskers travel to Northwestern. Tipoff from Welsh-Ryan Arena is set for 8 p.m. (central) and will be carried on BTN and the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;Postgame Notes&nbsp;*-Nebraska improves falls to 1-2 in overtime games. Tonight was the Huskers’ second straight OT contest.&nbsp;*-Juwan Gary posted his fourth double-double of the season and 7th of his career with 12 points and 11 rebounds.&nbsp;*-Nebraska went a season-best 14-of-14 from the foul line.&nbsp;*-Keisei Tominaga had a career-high 31 points, topping his previous career high of 30 against Penn State on Feb. 5, 2023. It was his fifth game of 20+ points this season.*-With his five 3-pointers, he moved into the top-10 list of NU’s career chart with 149, passing both Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) and Cookie Belcher (146, 1997-2001). Tominaga’s five 3-pointers tied a career high set five previous times, most recently against Purdue on Jan. 9.*-Nebraska had an 11-0 run to overcome a 10-point deficit and take the lead in the final seconds of regulation. It was NU’s 17th double-figure run this season.*- Tominaga’s 31 points is the most by an Illini opponent this season (30, Isaiah Stafford of Valparaiso). He also set Illini opponent highs in 3 pointers (five) and free throws (eight) &nbsp;*- Nebraska hit 12 3-pointers in tonight’s loss, marking the 13th time this year that NU has reached double figures in 3-pointers. &nbsp;*- Nebraska now has 222 3-pointers this season, a total which is eighth on Husker single-season charts.*- Nebraska went over 80 points for the 14th time this season. The Huskers fall to 12-2 with both losses coming in overtime (at Rutgers, at Illinois)*- Nebraska finished with nine turnovers, marking the 11th time this season with 10 or fewer turnovers in a game.&nbsp;*- Juwan Gary’s 12 points gave NU at least one bench player in double figures for the 20th time in 22 contests.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Husker MBB fall in overtime, 87-84

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

Kelli Ann Strand shot a four-under-par 68 on Sunday to climb into the top five with a 36-hole score of 138 (-6) through two rounds at the UCF Challenge in Orlando.

Strand, a sophomore from Challis, Idaho, recorded four birdies and 14 pars in a solid second round on the par-72, 6,367-yard layout at the Eagle Creek Golf Club. Her performance allowed her to move up four spots from a tie for eighth in a 96-player field after Saturday's opening round.&nbsp;

Strand also cut the gap from the top spot in the tournament standings in half, as Texas Tech's Lauren Zaretsky managed a 71 (-1) on Sunday following a sizzling 64 (-8) on Saturday. At nine-under-par through 36 holes, Zaretsky owns a narrow one-shot lead over UCF's Molly Smith (68-68) and North Carolina's Megan Streicher (64-72), who are tied for second at 136 (-8).&nbsp;

Strand is in a three-way tie for fourth with Kentucky's Laney Frye (72-66) and UNCW's Victoria Levy (69-69) at 138 heading into Monday's final round, which is scheduled for a 7:30 a.m. (CT) shotgun start.

Although Strand moved up the leader board, the Huskers slipped two spots in the team standings on Sunday despite posting a 294 (+6) after Saturday's opening-round 295 (+7).&nbsp; Nebraska sits in 15th place with a two-round total of 589 (+13) in the 18-team field that features 16 top-100 teams.&nbsp;

North Carolina maintained its hold on the top spot in the team race with a second-round 280 (-8) to enter Monday's final round at 559 (-17). The Tar Heels own an eight-stroke lead over No. 48 Miami, which matched North Carolina's 280 on Sunday to close the day at 567 (-9).

Junior Miu Takahashi (Nasu-Machi, Japan) put together Nebraska's second-best round on Sunday with a 74 (+2). She enters the final round in a tie for 43rd at 147 (+3).

Senior Lindsey Thiele (Wahoo, Neb.) added a second-round 75 (+3) to her opening-round 79 (+7) to enter Monday in a tie for 83rd at 154 (+10).

Junior Andrea Velez (Pereira, Colombia) closed out the scoring for the Huskers with a 77 (+5). She heads to the final round in a tie for 90th at 157 (+13).

Freshman Arden Louchheim (Park City, Utah), who carded a 73 on Saturday, settled for an 80 on Sunday to complete Nebraska's lineup. She is tied for 74th.

Sydney Harz (Freiburg, Germany), who is playing as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup, shot a 78 (+6) to complete her second round in a tie for 86th at 155 (+11).

Weather has affected the schedule in Orlando but the teams have completed the first 36 holes a day ahead of schedule and will try to close the tournament on Monday.

UCF ChallengeFeb. 3-5, 2024Orlando, Fla.Eagle Creek Golf Card (Par 72/6,367 Yards)

Team Standings (Two Rounds)1. (28) North Carolina - 279-280=559 (-17)2. (48) Miami - 287-280=567 (-9)3. (78) College of Charleston - 282-289=571 (-5)4. (46) Kansas - 287-285=572 (-4)T5. (14) Northwestern - 290-284=574 (-2)T5. (13) UCF - 290-284=574 (-2)7. (99) UNCW - 290-286=576 (E)8. (37) Virginia Tech - 289-289=578 (+2)9. (35) Kentucky - 286-293=579 (+3)10. (29) Michigan State - 293-287=580 (+4)11. (57) Kent State - 291-290=581 (+5)T12. (51) Iowa State - 298-286=584 (+8)T12. (36) North Texas - 298-286=584 (+8)14. (52) Texas Tech - 293-294=587 (+11)15. (61) Nebraska - 295-294=589 (+13)16. (108) Penn State - 302-295=597 (+21)T17. (125) Central Arkansas - 307-305=612 (+36)T17. (97) Old Dominion - 308-304=612 (+36)

Individual Standings (Two Rounds)1. Lauren Zaretsky, Texas Tech - 64-71=135 (-9)T2. Molly Smith, UCF - 68-68=136 (-8)T2. Megan Streicher, North Carolina - 64-72=136 (-8)T4. Laney Frye, Kentucky - 72-66=138 (-6)T4. Kelli Ann Strand, Nebraska - 70-68=138 (-6)T4. Victoria Levy, UNCW - 69-69=138 (-6)7. Lily Hirst, Kansas - 68-71=139 (-5)T8. Sara Byrne, Miami - 70-70=140 (-4)T8. Katie Lu, Michigan State - 70-70=140 (-4)T8. Adrian Anderson, College of Charleston - 68-72=140 (-4)

Nebraska IndividualsT4. Kelli Ann Strand - 70-68=138 (-6)T43. Miu Takahashi - 73-74=147 (+3)T74. Arden Louchheim - 73-80=153 (+9)T83. Lindsey Thiele - 79-75=154 (+10)*T86. Sydney Harz - 77-78=155 (+11)T90. Andrea Velez - 80-77=157 (+13)

*competing as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;Kelli Ann Strand shot a four-under-par 68 on Sunday to climb into the top five with a 36-hole score of 138 (-6) through two rounds at the UCF Challenge in Orlando.Strand, a sophomore from Challis, Idaho, recorded four birdies and 14 pars in a solid second round on the par-72, 6,367-yard layout at the Eagle Creek Golf Club. Her performance allowed her to move up four spots from a tie for eighth in a 96-player field after Saturday's opening round.&nbsp;Strand also cut the gap from the top spot in the tournament standings in half, as Texas Tech's Lauren Zaretsky managed a 71 (-1) on Sunday following a sizzling 64 (-8) on Saturday. At nine-under-par through 36 holes, Zaretsky owns a narrow one-shot lead over UCF's Molly Smith (68-68) and North Carolina's Megan Streicher (64-72), who are tied for second at 136 (-8).&nbsp;Strand is in a three-way tie for fourth with Kentucky's Laney Frye (72-66) and UNCW's Victoria Levy (69-69) at 138 heading into Monday's final round, which is scheduled for a 7:30 a.m. (CT) shotgun start.Although Strand moved up the leader board, the Huskers slipped two spots in the team standings on Sunday despite posting a 294 (+6) after Saturday's opening-round 295 (+7).&nbsp; Nebraska sits in 15th place with a two-round total of 589 (+13) in the 18-team field that features 16 top-100 teams.&nbsp;North Carolina maintained its hold on the top spot in the team race with a second-round 280 (-8) to enter Monday's final round at 559 (-17). The Tar Heels own an eight-stroke lead over No. 48 Miami, which matched North Carolina's 280 on Sunday to close the day at 567 (-9).Junior Miu Takahashi (Nasu-Machi, Japan) put together Nebraska's second-best round on Sunday with a 74 (+2). She enters the final round in a tie for 43rd at 147 (+3).Senior Lindsey Thiele (Wahoo, Neb.) added a second-round 75 (+3) to her opening-round 79 (+7) to enter Monday in a tie for 83rd at 154 (+10).Junior Andrea Velez (Pereira, Colombia) closed out the scoring for the Huskers with a 77 (+5). She heads to the final round in a tie for 90th at 157 (+13).Freshman Arden Louchheim (Park City, Utah), who carded a 73 on Saturday, settled for an 80 on Sunday to complete Nebraska's lineup. She is tied for 74th.Sydney Harz (Freiburg, Germany), who is playing as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup, shot a 78 (+6) to complete her second round in a tie for 86th at 155 (+11).Weather has affected the schedule in Orlando but the teams have completed the first 36 holes a day ahead of schedule and will try to close the tournament on Monday.UCF ChallengeFeb. 3-5, 2024Orlando, Fla.Eagle Creek Golf Card (Par 72/6,367 Yards)Team Standings (Two Rounds)1. (28) North Carolina - 279-280=559 (-17)2. (48) Miami - 287-280=567 (-9)3. (78) College of Charleston - 282-289=571 (-5)4. (46) Kansas - 287-285=572 (-4)T5. (14) Northwestern - 290-284=574 (-2)T5. (13) UCF - 290-284=574 (-2)7. (99) UNCW - 290-286=576 (E)8. (37) Virginia Tech - 289-289=578 (+2)9. (35) Kentucky - 286-293=579 (+3)10. (29) Michigan State - 293-287=580 (+4)11. (57) Kent State - 291-290=581 (+5)T12. (51) Iowa State - 298-286=584 (+8)T12. (36) North Texas - 298-286=584 (+8)14. (52) Texas Tech - 293-294=587 (+11)15. (61) Nebraska - 295-294=589 (+13)16. (108) Penn State - 302-295=597 (+21)T17. (125) Central Arkansas - 307-305=612 (+36)T17. (97) Old Dominion - 308-304=612 (+36)Individual Standings (Two Rounds)1. Lauren Zaretsky, Texas Tech - 64-71=135 (-9)T2. Molly Smith, UCF - 68-68=136 (-8)T2. Megan Streicher, North Carolina - 64-72=136 (-8)T4. Laney Frye, Kentucky - 72-66=138 (-6)T4. Kelli Ann Strand, Nebraska - 70-68=138 (-6)T4. Victoria Levy, UNCW - 69-69=138 (-6)7. Lily Hirst, Kansas - 68-71=139 (-5)T8. Sara Byrne, Miami - 70-70=140 (-4)T8. Katie Lu, Michigan State - 70-70=140 (-4)T8. Adrian Anderson, College of Charleston - 68-72=140 (-4)Nebraska IndividualsT4. Kelli Ann Strand - 70-68=138 (-6)T43. Miu Takahashi - 73-74=147 (+3)T74. Arden Louchheim - 73-80=153 (+9)T83. Lindsey Thiele - 79-75=154 (+10)*T86. Sydney Harz - 77-78=155 (+11)T90. Andrea Velez - 80-77=157 (+13)*competing as an individual outside Nebraska's lineup

Strand climbs into Top Five at UCF for Huskers Golf

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707071039220.png" alt="Class A" />
 <figcaption>Class A</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707071051481.png" alt="Class B" />
 <figcaption>Class B</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707071064331.png" alt="Class C" />
 <figcaption>Class C</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707071077724.png" alt="Class D" />
 <figcaption>Class D</figcaption>
 </figure>

NSAA State Boy's Dual Championships

Friday night hoops Flatrock 100.7 as the Ogallala Indians travel to McCook for a doubleheader battle with the Bison. Live coverage set to begin around 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT on Flatrock 100.7.

Starting off tonight's doubleheader will be the girl's matchup where Ogallala (9-8) will battle McCook (8-8) with a 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT tipoff scheduled. In the boys game Ogallala (18-1) recently won their sixth straight Southwest Conference Tournament and McCook (8-8) finished in the sixth place. The boys are set to follow 20 minutes after the girls game.

Join Canon Rath for all the action with the&nbsp;Kwik Stop pregame coverage set to begin at 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT with tip off scheduled for 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. The boys will tipoff 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">click here</a> to listen online.

Sandhills PostFriday night hoops Flatrock 100.7 as the Ogallala Indians travel to McCook for a doubleheader battle with the Bison. Live coverage set to begin around 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT on Flatrock 100.7.Starting off tonight's doubleheader will be the girl's matchup where Ogallala (9-8) will battle McCook (8-8) with a 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT tipoff scheduled. In the boys game Ogallala (18-1) recently won their sixth straight Southwest Conference Tournament and McCook (8-8) finished in the sixth place. The boys are set to follow 20 minutes after the girls game.Join Canon Rath for all the action with the&nbsp;Kwik Stop pregame coverage set to begin at 4:50pm MT/5:50pm CT with tip off scheduled for 5:00pm MT/6:00pm CT. The boys will tipoff 20 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">click here</a> to listen online.

Ogallala/McCook basketball doubleheader radio coverage this evening

Anastasia Tichy and Abby Baxter each earned Big Ten Swimming and Diving Weekly Awards, announced by the conference on Wednesday afternoon.

Tichy, a freshman from Salzburg, Austria, was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week after setting a facility record in the 200 butterfly at ARC Pool this past weekend against Illinois with a time of 1:59.22. She also contributed a fourth-place finish in the 100 butterfly (56.22).&nbsp;

Earlier in the season, at the Hawkeye Invite, Tichy hit a B Standard in the 200 butterfly with a time of 1:58.87.

Baxter, the Big Ten Diver of the Week, swept the diving competition against the Fighting Illini with first-place finishes on the one meter and the three meter. She logged a score of 331.65 on the three meter for a career-best and added a 296.18 on the one meter.

The Huskers return home for a two-day dual with Rutgers this Friday and Saturday. Competition will kick off at 5 p.m. (CT) Friday evening and will resume Saturday morning at 10 a.m. (CT) following senior day festivities.

By NU Athletics CommunicationsAnastasia Tichy and Abby Baxter each earned Big Ten Swimming and Diving Weekly Awards, announced by the conference on Wednesday afternoon.Tichy, a freshman from Salzburg, Austria, was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week after setting a facility record in the 200 butterfly at ARC Pool this past weekend against Illinois with a time of 1:59.22. She also contributed a fourth-place finish in the 100 butterfly (56.22).&nbsp;Earlier in the season, at the Hawkeye Invite, Tichy hit a B Standard in the 200 butterfly with a time of 1:58.87.Baxter, the Big Ten Diver of the Week, swept the diving competition against the Fighting Illini with first-place finishes on the one meter and the three meter. She logged a score of 331.65 on the three meter for a career-best and added a 296.18 on the one meter.The Huskers return home for a two-day dual with Rutgers this Friday and Saturday. Competition will kick off at 5 p.m. (CT) Friday evening and will resume Saturday morning at 10 a.m. (CT) following senior day festivities.

Tichy, Baxter collect Big Ten weekly honors for Huskers Swimming

Alexis Markowski and Darian White each scored 14 points to lead a balanced offense with five Huskers in double figures, as Nebraska worked its way to a 68-54 women's basketball win over Purdue on Wednesday night at Pinnacle Bank Arena.

Natalie Potts added 11 points, six rebounds and a game-high four steals, while Kendall Moriarty matched her career high with 11 points off the bench. Jaz Shelley rounded out the five Huskers in double figures with 10 points, a game-high nine rebounds and four assists to help Nebraska improve to 6-4 in the Big Ten and 14-7 overall. Purdue slipped to 2-8 in the conference and 9-12 on the season.

Markowski, who added seven rebounds and three assists on the night, pushed Nebraska out to a 19-17 lead with 10 first-quarter points to set the tone for the Big Red. She also started the second quarter strong with back-to-back buckets before a spectacular kickout pass to Shelley for a three-pointer in transition, followed by another assist to Potts to help the Huskers take a 10-point lead midway through the second period.

Markowski finished the first half with all 14 of her points on the night, and actually had a hand in 19 of Nebraska's 25 points to close the first quarter and start the second.

Purdue rallied late with seven straight points from Abbey Ellis to end the half and cut Nebraska's lead to 32-29 at the break. Ellis finished with a game-high 15 points to go with six rebounds for Purdue.

After Purdue shifted its focus on shutting down Markowski, White emerged in the second half to score 13 of her 14 points on the night from her guard position. Moriarty and Potts both contributed seven points after halftime, while Shelley scored five points in each half.

Nebraska, which won each quarter, outscored the Boilermakers 22-14 in the third to push its lead to 54-43 heading to the final period. The Huskers then opened the fourth by punishing Purdue on the offensive glass, including a second-chance three-pointer from Shelley and a second-chance jumper by Potts on back-to-back possessions to give Nebraska its biggest lead at 61-45 and force a Purdue timeout with 7:36 left.

The Nebraska defense was solid throughout the night, holding Purdue to 29 points in the first half and just 25 in the second half. The Huskers were plus-13 on the glass in the final 20 minutes, finishing the game with a 44-32 edge on the boards.

For the game, Nebraska hit 42.4 percent (25-59) of its shots, including 7-of-22 three-pointers (.318) and 11-of-17 free throws (.647). The Huskers held Purdue to just 36.1 percent (22-61) from the floor, including 4-for-21 (.190) from long range and 6-of-8 free throws. Purdue did win the turnover battle, 13-12.

Caitlyn Harper, who finished with 10 points, was the only Boilermaker other than Ellis to manage double figures.

Nebraska will take aim at another Big Ten Conference home win on Saturday when the Huskers play host to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Tip-off between the Big Red and Rutgers is set for 2 p.m. (CT) with tickets on sale now at Huskers.com. The game also will be televised statewide by Nebraska Public Media with a live video stream for subscribers of B1G+. The game will be available across the Huskers Radio Network, including free live audio on Huskers.com and the Huskers App.

BY NU Athletic CommunicationsAlexis Markowski and Darian White each scored 14 points to lead a balanced offense with five Huskers in double figures, as Nebraska worked its way to a 68-54 women's basketball win over Purdue on Wednesday night at Pinnacle Bank Arena.Natalie Potts added 11 points, six rebounds and a game-high four steals, while Kendall Moriarty matched her career high with 11 points off the bench. Jaz Shelley rounded out the five Huskers in double figures with 10 points, a game-high nine rebounds and four assists to help Nebraska improve to 6-4 in the Big Ten and 14-7 overall. Purdue slipped to 2-8 in the conference and 9-12 on the season.Markowski, who added seven rebounds and three assists on the night, pushed Nebraska out to a 19-17 lead with 10 first-quarter points to set the tone for the Big Red. She also started the second quarter strong with back-to-back buckets before a spectacular kickout pass to Shelley for a three-pointer in transition, followed by another assist to Potts to help the Huskers take a 10-point lead midway through the second period.Markowski finished the first half with all 14 of her points on the night, and actually had a hand in 19 of Nebraska's 25 points to close the first quarter and start the second.Purdue rallied late with seven straight points from Abbey Ellis to end the half and cut Nebraska's lead to 32-29 at the break. Ellis finished with a game-high 15 points to go with six rebounds for Purdue.After Purdue shifted its focus on shutting down Markowski, White emerged in the second half to score 13 of her 14 points on the night from her guard position. Moriarty and Potts both contributed seven points after halftime, while Shelley scored five points in each half.Nebraska, which won each quarter, outscored the Boilermakers 22-14 in the third to push its lead to 54-43 heading to the final period. The Huskers then opened the fourth by punishing Purdue on the offensive glass, including a second-chance three-pointer from Shelley and a second-chance jumper by Potts on back-to-back possessions to give Nebraska its biggest lead at 61-45 and force a Purdue timeout with 7:36 left.The Nebraska defense was solid throughout the night, holding Purdue to 29 points in the first half and just 25 in the second half. The Huskers were plus-13 on the glass in the final 20 minutes, finishing the game with a 44-32 edge on the boards.For the game, Nebraska hit 42.4 percent (25-59) of its shots, including 7-of-22 three-pointers (.318) and 11-of-17 free throws (.647). The Huskers held Purdue to just 36.1 percent (22-61) from the floor, including 4-for-21 (.190) from long range and 6-of-8 free throws. Purdue did win the turnover battle, 13-12.Caitlyn Harper, who finished with 10 points, was the only Boilermaker other than Ellis to manage double figures.Nebraska will take aim at another Big Ten Conference home win on Saturday when the Huskers play host to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Tip-off between the Big Red and Rutgers is set for 2 p.m. (CT) with tickets on sale now at Huskers.com. The game also will be televised statewide by Nebraska Public Media with a live video stream for subscribers of B1G+. The game will be available across the Huskers Radio Network, including free live audio on Huskers.com and the Huskers App.

 Huskers WBB pound past Purdue, 68-54

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Former Nebraska tight end Arik Gilbert pleaded no contest to two misdemeanors Tuesday and was ordered to pay a fine and restitution in connection with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-huskers-arik-gilbert-arrested-15722944b64c0e426cd32737b8e8966a">a break-in at a liquor and vape shop</a>&nbsp;in Lincoln last summer.

Gilbert had been charged with burglary, a felony, but prosecutors amended it to trespassing and criminal mischief. Gilbert was fined $400 and ordered to pay $450 for damage he caused to SJ’s Liquor and Vape Shop.

Police said when they arrived at the scene Aug. 29, they found a glass door shattered with large cement chunks from the parking lot and saw Gilbert walking toward the exit carrying a bag. The bag contained stolen vape products, Delta 8, cigars and lighters with a total value of $1,672.07.

Gilbert, from Marietta, Georgia, was a five-star recruit who was the top-ranked tight end prospect and 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year.

He started eight games for LSU in 2020 and sat out 2021 after transferring to Georgia. He played in three games for the Bulldogs in 2022 and then transferred to Nebraska last spring. He left the program shortly after his arrest.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Former Nebraska tight end Arik Gilbert pleaded no contest to two misdemeanors Tuesday and was ordered to pay a fine and restitution in connection with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-huskers-arik-gilbert-arrested-15722944b64c0e426cd32737b8e8966a">a break-in at a liquor and vape shop</a>&nbsp;in Lincoln last summer.Gilbert had been charged with burglary, a felony, but prosecutors amended it to trespassing and criminal mischief. Gilbert was fined $400 and ordered to pay $450 for damage he caused to SJ’s Liquor and Vape Shop.Police said when they arrived at the scene Aug. 29, they found a glass door shattered with large cement chunks from the parking lot and saw Gilbert walking toward the exit carrying a bag. The bag contained stolen vape products, Delta 8, cigars and lighters with a total value of $1,672.07.Gilbert, from Marietta, Georgia, was a five-star recruit who was the top-ranked tight end prospect and 2019 Gatorade National Player of the Year.He started eight games for LSU in 2020 and sat out 2021 after transferring to Georgia. He played in three games for the Bulldogs in 2022 and then transferred to Nebraska last spring. He left the program shortly after his arrest.

Ex-Huskers TE Gilbert, a top national recruit in 2019, pleads no contest to misdemeanors in break-in

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Late three lifts McCook past North Platte

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big second half leads Knights to win

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

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

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

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

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

Maxwell/Perkins County radio coverage this evening

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

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

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

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

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

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

Storm acquires goaltender Thatcher Bernstein

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

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

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

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

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

Ogallala Southwest Conference Championship game radio coverage

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

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

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

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

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

Ogallala boys basketball Southwest Conference radio coverage this afternoon

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

Updated RPAC bracket for tonight's games

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

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

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

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

Chadron State Women's Basketball Coach suspended three games

Story by Alliance Sports Communications

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

Fans on the street outside the proposed stadium

The key components of the initial development plan include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lundgren signs with Huskers as a top Texan

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communications&nbsp;

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

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