Full Breakdown
Nebraska Volleyball Maintains Undefeated Streak Despite Set Loss Against UCLA
11/17/2025, 12:44:53 AM
Record-Breaking Attendance at Pauley Pavilion
The No. 1-ranked Nebraska women’s volleyball team improved its record to 25-0 with a 3-1 victory over UCLA on November 14, 2025. The match, held at Pauley Pavilion, drew a record crowd of 10,498, surpassing the previous attendance record of 7,200 for a volleyball match at the venue. Nebraska's set scores were 25-17, 25-23, 19-25, and 25-15, marking the end of their impressive streak of 48 consecutive sets won.
Match Overview
Nebraska's victory was characterized by strong performances from its key players. Junior middle blocker Andi Jackson led the team with 15 kills and a hitting percentage of .625, while outside hitter Harper Murray contributed 14 kills. Rebekah Allick added 13 kills and seven blocks. Despite the loss of the third set, which was the first set dropped by Nebraska since September 16, the team rebounded decisively in the fourth set.
UCLA's Maggie Li had a standout performance, recording 20 kills, while Cheridyn Leverette added 17 kills. The Bruins managed to outdig Nebraska for the first time this season, with a total of 59 digs compared to Nebraska's 48.
Implications of the Match
The match against UCLA was significant not only for its record attendance but also for the competitive challenge it presented to Nebraska. Coach Dani Busboom Kelly noted the importance of facing adversity, stating, “It was good for us to get tested, and then I thought we delivered.” The loss of the set may serve as a valuable learning experience for the Huskers as they prepare for future matches.
Upcoming Challenges
Following the match against UCLA, Nebraska continued its West Coast trip with a match against No. 17 USC on November 16, 2025. The Trojans, who entered the match with a record of 20-5, were on a nine-match winning streak and posed a formidable challenge. The match at USC's Galen Center was also sold out, breaking the venue's previous attendance record of 7,303.
Official Statements & Responses
Nebraska's players expressed a sense of relief after the match against UCLA. Andi Jackson remarked, “The pressure is off... now we can play free once again.” This sentiment reflects the team's readiness to move forward after the end of their set-winning streak.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss of a set, UCLA's performance was praised by their coach, Alfee Reft, who stated, “We saw that our ceiling was pretty high, and we raised our medium level tonight.” The Bruins demonstrated resilience and skill, indicating their potential for future success in the season.
What's Next
Nebraska's next match against USC is set for November 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. CT. The Huskers aim to maintain their undefeated record as they face another top-tier opponent in the Trojans. Following this match, Nebraska will return home to host Iowa on November 20, 2025.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was good for us to get tested, and then I thought we delivered,” — Dani Busboom Kelly, Head Coach, Nebraska Volleyball
This match against UCLA not only showcased Nebraska's dominance in women's volleyball but also highlighted the growing popularity and competitive nature of the sport, as evidenced by record-breaking attendance figures.
