Looks like the Nebraska volleyball team just doesn’t know the meaning of “slow down,” do they? Just a few days ago, the Huskers turned the spotlight their way when they broke an 11-year losing streak against Wisconsin. The Badgers, famed for their unbreakable defense on their home turf, faced their first sweep in eight years, right in front of a full house at UW Field House in Madison, Wisconsin. For years, Wisconsin held their home fortress tight, keeping it untouched by even the most fierce opponents.

But last Friday night, the No. 2-ranked Nebraska squad finally shattered Wisconsin’s iron grip, handing the Badgers their first home sweep loss in nearly a decade. It was no easy feat; Nebraska’s persistence paid off as they defeated the formidable Badgers in straight sets—25-21, 25-22, 25-19. Until that night, all eight of Nebraska’s previous attempts in the Field House since 2013 had ended in frustration. However, with a determined spirit and a touch of magic in their play, the Huskers finally claimed the victory they had been chasing for so long. And if that wasn’t historic enough, the Huskers are now poised to carve out yet another legendary moment.

As per a report by NU Sports, Nebraska volleyball is about to dive into yet another historic matchup, with an electric showdown set for November 3. Northwestern’s Sunday game against the No. 2 Nebraska squad has officially sold out, marking the first-ever sell-out for a home volleyball match in Northwestern’s program history. The Wildcats announced the news on Thursday, sparking excitement among fans eager to see the court light up like never before.

Head coach Tim Nollan couldn’t be prouder, sharing his gratitude for the Northwestern fan base and the Chicago volleyball community. “What a great statement,” he remarked. “I look forward to Welsh-Ryan being a loud environment where our student-athletes get to compete and showcase their abilities at the highest level.”

This milestone sets Northwestern on a path to break attendance records for the third consecutive season. Last year, they drew 4,019 fans against Nebraska, only to surpass that with 4,889 fans in September against Wisconsin. With this year’s turnout expected to set new records yet again, volleyball is on track to become the second Northwestern sport in 2024 to celebrate its inaugural sell-out, following women’s basketball, which achieved the milestone last January against Iowa. But how did Nebraska manage to pull off that epic win over Wisconsin and finally end their home-court streak?

Nebraska Volleyball just won’t quit!

Friday’s face-off between Nebraska and Wisconsin was nothing short of electric, with Nebraska claiming a 25-21, 25-22, 25-19 victory right in Wisconsin’s backyard at Madison. Out-hitting the Badgers at .202% to .094% and stacking up five aces, Nebraska’s win was the definition of a team triumph! While Wisconsin recently earned the title as the nation’s top blocking team, averaging a fierce 4.22 blocks per set and hitting double figures over the last seven matches, the Huskers brought their A-game to flip the stats. Nebraska out-blocked the Badgers 10.5 to 9, with Rebekah Allick leading the defensive charge with seven solo blocks.

As for the offense, Taylor Landfair topped Nebraska with 13 kills, closely followed by Merritt Beason’s 11. On the aces front, Lexi Rodriguez and Olivia Mauch each served up two, while Kennedi Orr added another, with Rodriguez showcasing her defensive prowess by recording 12 digs. Yet, with all this momentum and their winning streak alive, Nebraska still holds the second spot in the AVCA rankings, as Pittsburgh stands firm at No. 1 with 1,513 points and a 19-1 record. For weeks, the college volleyball world has been abuzz with one big question—when will Nebraska finally dethrone the Panthers? 

Despite Nebraska’s red-hot 20-1 record and 1,468 points, they’ve been trailing Pittsburgh, which has held the top spot since the start of the season. But change could be in the air! Friday’s win might shift the votes, nudging Nebraska closer to that coveted top rank. And with an upcoming Sunday game against Northwestern that’s set to break attendance records on their opponent’s home court, the Huskers are in prime position to make a strong push for the throne.