Coach John Cook expressed his admiration for his team’s resilience, stating, “We faced a lot of adversity in this match, but we kept fighting and found a way to win.”

The first set was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading points. Nebraska eventually won 25-21, fueled by the powerful attacks of Madi Kubik. Creighton rebounded in the second set, cruising to a 25-14 victory.

The third set was a rollercoaster, with Creighton mounting a late charge but ultimately falling short 26-24. Nebraska took the fourth set 25-21, setting up a decisive fifth set with the match tied at 2-2.

The fifth set was a nail-biter, with both teams showcasing their determination. Nebraska ultimately prevailed 16-14, securing the victory and extending their winning streak to five matches.

Lauren Stivrins, the reigning National Player of the Year, led the way for Nebraska with 21 kills, followed by Kubik’s 18 kills. Anna Stevenson and Norah Sis contributed 11 and 10 kills, respectively.

Creighton’s star hitter Jaali Winters finished with a team-high 19 kills, while Kendra Wait had 14 and Elle O’Brien added 11. Defensively, the Bluejays were led by Keeley Davis with 22 digs.

The victory solidifies Nebraska’s status as a top contender in the national championship race. Creighton, despite the loss, remains a formidable force in the Big East Conference.

The Husker Classic, an annual showcase of top college volleyball programs, drew a record-breaking crowd of over 8,000 fans. The event showcased the athleticism, teamwork, and competitive spirit that defines the sport.

The victory is expected to boost Nebraska’s national ranking, while Creighton is likely to drop slightly. The two teams may meet again in the NCAA Tournament, where they would undoubtedly provide another thrilling chapter in their fierce rivalry.