For Nebraska’s Lexi Rodriguez, it’s about diving for every volleyball, leading with heart, and showing character that shines beyond the court. On April 15, 2025, the senior libero made history in New York City, winning the 2025 AAU James E. Sullivan Award—the first Husker ever to do so. Presented annually since 1930 by the Amateur Athletic Union, the award celebrates the nation’s top collegiate or Olympic athlete for not just athletic excellence but leadership, citizenship, character, and sportsmanship. Rodriguez’s new coach, teammates, and fans are over the moon, flooding social media with love for the volleyball star who’s etched her name among legends like Simone Biles and Michael Phelps.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Volleyball program’s head coach Dani Busboom Kelly, a Husker icon and former head coach John Cook’s protégé, couldn’t contain her pride, sharing on her Instagram story: “First Husker to ever win this award! Congrats to Lexi!” Kelly, who took over the program this season, knows what it means to break barriers. Rodriguez is only the third volleyball player to win the Sullivan Award in its 95-year history—joining Lauren Carlini (2016) and Kathryn Plummer (2018). This also marks Nebraska’s first finalist win since Mikaela Foecke in 2018.

She concluded her Husker career in December 2024 season with a masterclass: 374 digs, averaging 3.74 per set, and a third consecutive First-Team AVCA All-American honor. As captain, she guided Nebraska to a 29-4 record and an NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearance. Rodriguez leaves as the program’s all-time digs leader with 1,897, a finalist for the 2024 AVCA National Player of the Year, and a contender for the Honda Sport Award for Volleyball. Her resume screams greatness.

Lexi Rodriguez outshone finalists like Duke’s Cooper Flagg and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty. This win marks a milestone for a program with five national titles but never a Sullivan winner until now. Rodriguez’s win isn’t just a personal triumph—it’s a milestone for Nebraska volleyball. As Kelly builds on the program’s storied legacy, Lexi’s Sullivan Award sets a sky-high bar. From her tearful farewell after a 2024 Final Four loss to this New York spotlight, Rodriguez has shown what it means to be a Husker.

Fans and teammates show love and support to Lexi Rodriguez’s win

Lexi Rodriguez’s recent achievement has sparked an outpouring of joy and admiration from both fans and teammates, showcasing the profound impact she has made both on and off the court. Her teammates, in particular, have been vocal in their pride, using social media to amplify their support and highlight the camaraderie that defines their team. One fan’s post encapsulated the collective sentiment, exclaiming, “OMGI AM SO PROUD OF YOU ALEXIS🥹🥹🥹 ❤️ @lexi.rodrigues_.” The all-caps enthusiasm and emotional emojis convey a raw, genuine excitement, underscoring the close bonds forged through shared challenges and triumphs.

Similarly, Bergen Reilly added a playful yet regal touch with her comment, “duhhh👑👑,” suggesting that Lexi’s success was both expected and well-deserved, with the crown emojis cementing her status as a team leader. Andi Jackson joined the celebration with an Instagram story captioned, “I know that’s right💃💃 @lexi.rodrigues_ the most deserving!!!!” The dancing emojis and emphatic declaration reflect a festive mood, while the phrase “the most deserving” speaks to Lexi’s relentless work ethic and the respect she’s earned from her peers. Leyla Blackwell’s tribute was equally poignant, with a caption reading, “@lexi.rodrigues_ no one else like you!” This succinct praise emphasizes Lexi’s unique presence, both as an athlete and as an individual who inspires those around her.

Taylor Landfair rounded out the teammate reactions, sharing in her Instagram story, “always amazing @lexi.rodrigues_,” a nod to Lexi’s consistent excellence and enduring impact. Beyond her teammates, fans have flooded platforms like Instagram and X with messages of congratulations, amplifying the excitement surrounding Lexi’s win. The collective response paints a picture of a player who not only excels in her sport but also fosters a sense of unity and inspiration.

Her ability to connect with those around her, paired with her undeniable talent, has made this victory a shared celebration. As the posts and stories continue to circulate, it’s clear that Lexi Rodriguez’s win is more than a personal milestone—it’s a moment that has brought her team and fans together in a powerful display of support and admiration.