Just hours ago, Nebraska Volleyball was on fire, showcasing their dominance once again as they swept No. 6 Wisconsin at the Devaney Center. This marks the second time this season that the Huskers have taken down the Badgers in straight sets, further solidifying their powerhouse status. From the very start, Nebraska came out strong, racing to a 7-1 lead in the first set. Wisconsin fought back, but the Huskers maintained control, taking the set 25-21.

The second set had its own drama, with Wisconsin briefly taking the lead, but Nebraska responded with a fiery 6-0 run to regain the upper hand. The Badgers hung tough toward the end, but Nebraska’s resolve never wavered, and they closed out the set 25-22. Although the Badgers tied it at 14, Nebraska’s experience and energy were too much, and they finished strong with a 25-17 victory.

The Huskers poured their hearts onto the court, but Merritt Beason stole the spotlight. The standout outside hitter led Nebraska with 11 kills in this match and delivered a stellar .391 hitting clip with three blocks and 11 kills in the previous clash against the Badgers. But here’s the curveball—before she became a Husker sensation, Merritt once had her sights set on an entirely different career path!

In a recent heartfelt video posted by Nebraska Huskers on YouTube, senior setter Merritt Beason sat before the press, her eyes glistening with emotion as she reflected on her journey. When a journalist asked her if young Merritt would ever have believed she’d be where she is today, her response was a clear “no.” She went on to share a candid look at her beginnings, explaining that little Merritt, from Alabama, never dreamed of this path. “Little Merritt hoped to go to community college right down the road… volleyball wasn’t a big thing.”

Merritt described how growing up in a place where volleyball wasn’t widely recognized, she had no idea this sport could lead her to such a remarkable place. “I didn’t even know you could play volleyball at a young age,” she admitted, revealing how isolated she felt in a sport that wasn’t on most people’s radar. For Merritt, volleyball was never part of the plan, especially in a state where football and cheerleading reigned supreme. “It’s just something you don’t really dream of,” she said, noting how different it was from her peers in Nebraska, like Rebekah Allick, who grew up surrounded by volleyball culture.

In Alabama, it was more about being a cheerleader for the football team or playing softball, but volleyball? That wasn’t even on her radar. “I almost tried out for cheer instead,” she laughed, clearly grateful that she didn’t. As Merritt looked back at her journey, she couldn’t help but feel immense gratitude for the unexpected world she stepped into—one that has shaped her into the incredible player she is today.

At the post-game conference, Merritt Beason sat next to Rebekah Allick, her eyes shiny with tears as the moment truly hit her. The two held hands through most of the session, leaning on each other while they opened up about how emotional the night was and how much it meant to play for each other. It was her final game at home, a bittersweet farewell to Nebraska, the team, and the roaring fans who’ve been her unwavering support. The emotions ran deep, but her teammates and the entire program rallied to make it a night to remember.

A night to remember for Nebraska Volleyball

You heard it right—Nebraska Volleyball went all out to bid a heartfelt farewell to their five phenomenal seniors: Lexi Rodriguez, Kennedi Orr, Leyla Blackwell, Merritt Beason, and Lindsay Krause. As the final home game loomed on the horizon, Coach John Cook kept his cool, brushing aside the emotions when asked about the senior celebrations. With his trademark focus, he made it clear his sights were set on winning the next nine matches. But come November 23, the legendary coach, known for his steady demeanor, had a few surprises up his sleeve to make sure these seniors felt the love on their special night.

True to tradition, Coach Cook made the pregame ceremony a heartfelt affair. With a warm smile and a single red rose in hand, he approached each senior, offering a token of gratitude wrapped in admiration. A pat on the back here, a soft word of thanks there—he made sure every moment felt personal. Lexi, Lindsay, Kennedi, Merritt, and Leyla stood center court, emotions dancing across their faces, as the Bob Devaney Sports Center roared with applause. The crowd wasn’t just there for a game; they were there for *their* seniors, showering them with cheers and love in an electric atmosphere.

But the most touching moment came after the Huskers’ victory, as the spotlight turned to honor these incredible athletes one last time. Framed jerseys, a symbol of their unforgettable journeys, were presented to each senior. Tears welled up, hugs were shared, and the weight of their time as Huskers seemed to settle in. As they waved to the sea of adoring fans, it was clear—this wasn’t just a goodbye.