The Nebraska Huskers ended their 2024 season with a 33-3 record. While they aimed to win the national championships, Penn State proved too much to handle in the finals. However, of all the incredible Huskers whose stories have played out on and off the volleyball court this season, none have been as unique as Harper Murray’s. “2024 has been a rollercoaster,” Murray wrote.

The year started on a sour note as Murray grappled with the 2023 NCAA title match loss. The 19-year-old also struggled to cope with the backlash she received after proclaiming that Nebraska would win the next three national titles. It all culminated in a DUI arrest in April 2024. Yet despite the mishaps, the sophomore made a comeback for the ages.

Despite the loss, Harper Murray is in a better place now

While losing in the semifinals felt gut-wrenching for every Husker, Murray refused to succumb to her emotions this time. After all, the offensive specialist’s downward spiral started after an emotional reaction to last year’s loss against Texas. “My struggle with mental health has been nothing short of exhausting yet rewarding.” Murray wrote on Instagram, recalling her journey.

“I was able to persevere through my struggles and come out the other end as a better volleyball player but most importantly a better human being,” added Harper Murray. And it’s truly been a journey of redemption. While things looked grim for the outside hitter in April, she’s achieved highlights on the court. Murray has equaled the Huskers kills record in a four-set match (22) against Dayton and finished the season with All-American honors.

However, the volleyball icon is aware she wouldn’t have succeeded without the undying support of everyone at NU. “I’m surrounded by people who refuse to give up on me and who continue to express their belief system in me,” the 19-year-old added. This is also why Murray ended her note, asking fans not to berate those who helped her get a second chance.

“I want to remind fans and everyone out there that athletes are humans too. It’s our first time living, just like you… Athletes have feelings and we are just kids trying to play the sport we love,” said Murray. Her message was for those who have blamed the players, some more than others, for the reverse sweep loss against Penn State. However, Murray is optimistic.

Harper Murray believes things are only going to get better

In stark contrast to last year’s post-match interview, the sophomore showed optimism in defeat. “We have so much to be proud of,” the 19-year-old said in her interview with Hail Varsity. While not achieving her goal of winning the NCAA title stung, the outside hitter is grateful for the journey. Murray was thankful that in 2024 she had rediscovered the joy of playing volleyball again.

The college volleyball icon hopes to maintain this optimism. While the departure of core talents such as Lexi Rodriguez, Merritt Beason, and others is sad, she believes the new generation has what it takes to continue Nebraska volleyball’s winning ways. “Our program and our team is going to continue to grow and get better and better,” Harper Murray told Hail Varsity.

And while the Michigan native requested people not to direct hate at the players for losing in the semifinals, Murray believes most of the fan base is supportive. “I mean we (0:25) have the best fan base in the world,” said Harper Murray. The player has seen Nebraska fans shatter records in support of their team and hopes they’ll continue to do so in the future. “All props to them,” added Murray.

While not winning the NCAA championship was a huge blow, Harper Murray can’t help but be grateful for her 2024 journey. And the team’s loss in the semifinals has only emboldened their spirits to work harder for next season.