November 23rd at the Bob Devaney Sports Center was the perfect blend of nostalgia and dominance for the Nebraska Huskers volleyball team. Senior Night wasn’t just about the hugs and tears—it was also about flexing on rivals Wisconsin. In front of a roaring crowd of 9,009, the Huskers swept the No. 6 Badgers 25-21, 25-22, 25-17, reminding everyone why they’re the queens of the Big Ten. With their 25th straight win and a spotless 18-0 conference record, the Huskers were in no mood to mess around.

But while the night ended with celebrations and heartfelt send-offs for the graduating seniors, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Lexi Rodriguez. The star libero, despite her killer instincts on the court, had some pre-game jitters—not about the game, but about who might be missing in the stands.

Nebraska Huskers’ Lexi Rodriguez was left concerned after not finding family in the stands

Lexi Rodriguez wasn’t just battling nerves before Nebraska’s big Senior Night clash against Wisconsin—she was low-key spiraling. The libero’s usual pre-game routine includes scanning the stands for her mom, Crystal, who’s basically her ride-or-die cheerleader, having clocked more than 120 of Lexi’s games. But this time? No familiar face, no reassuring smile. Nada.

Cue the panic. Lexi Rodriguez turned to assistant coach Kelly Hunter for backup. But Crystal was still MIA. And to make matters worse, this wasn’t just any game—her one-month-old nephew, Tatum, was supposed to make his grand debut in the stands. “I was freaking out,” Lexi later admitted to The Omaha World-Herald. “It’s really important to me that I see them and know that they’re okay.”

Was Tatum okay? Was something wrong? Lexi Rodriguez couldn’t shake the sinking feeling. But just as the lineup was being introduced, relief washed over her. There was Crystal, finally settled in with baby Tatum in tow, looking like nothing had happened. Turns out, Mom had been busy wrangling the little VIP outside to make sure he was good to go for the big game. With her family in sight, Lexi shook off the nerves and got down to business, delivering one of her best performances yet. Call it a happy ending for Senior Night—with a side of heart-pounding suspense.

Lexi’s family’s support could help Nebraska Huskers fight for the title

Lexi Rodriguez has been one of the best players on the Nebraska Huskers team since her arrival. The libero has stunned everyone with her output on court, which is why she’s one of the most crucial members in their title charge. But, for Lexi, her family’s support has been really crucial for her top form in the league.

Crystal Rodriguez, her mother, and Chris, her father, have driven long distances every week to witness their daughter playing in the Bob Devaney area. Between juggling work—Chris as a UPS driver and Crystal as a volleyball club co-director—they’ve logged over 12,000 miles this season alone, often joined by their three Goldendoodles. The sacrifices are immense: vacations and home projects take a backseat, and Chris has pulled 24-hour marathons to make games during the holidays.

Crystal, who once drove three hours round-trip four days a week for Lexi’s club practices, now packs her life into a suitcase, cheering tirelessly through wins and losses. Their dedication goes beyond travel—they share knowing smiles during matches, carry Lexi through injuries, and celebrate milestones as a family. “We always make sure she sees us,” Crystal said during senior night. “It’ll definitely be bittersweet to leave that place for the last time.” And like Chris said, “It’s just love and support to its core. That’s really what it all comes down to.” 

Thus, it’s an emotional moment for the whole family as Lexi Rodriguez leaves the Nebraska Huskers at the end of this season. However, she still has the main job remaining for her, which is to win her team the title. As they currently await their match against Dayton University, the NCAA title that has long eluded her team will definitely be on the Libero’s mind. With the support of her family, there’s no doubt that the player could lead her team to glory.