Spring Scrimmage: Notes & Insight

Last Friday, Nebraska hosted Omaha in a closed scrimmage. While fans weren’t able to attend, several sources provided their witness observations that provide insight into the upcoming season. 

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There were four sets played total, of which the Husker’s implemented two different lineups. For the first two sets, it was Bergen (S), Harper (OH), Skyler (OH), Andi (MB), Rebekah (MB), Ryan (OPP), Keri (DS), and Olivia as libero. The last two sets were; Campbell (S), Taylor (OH), Teraya (OH), Andi (MB), Rebekah (MB), Ryan (OPP), Maisie (DS), and Laney at libero. All four outsides played 6 rotations, as well – something Nebraska hasn’t done in many seasons.

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In regards to the second outside position battle, it is as much of a battle as everyone anticipated of three number one recruits. Harper has all but locked down a starting spot, and seems to only be building on her prior second-team All-American season. Taylor, for the most part, looked like her 2024 self – with flashes of her 2022 Big Ten Player of the Year season. However, she was not as effective in the back row – but freshman Teraya Sigler certainly was. The nation's number one commit was very impressive, able to terminate from all areas of the court, in and out-of-system. Redshirt freshman Skyler Pierce was also very consistent and reliable, but it seems Teraya may have the slight edge over her. From what I hear, Sigler could be a revelation for the program. We will get to see them all in action in a few weeks – which will provide more insight into the battle – but it’s definitely something to keep an eye on! 

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It was emphasized that the tempo of the offense is notably faster, especially to the pins. While they’re still working out the kinks with set location and timing, it's exciting to hear that Nebraska is switching to a quicker offense. The Huskers have never been known for their offense; while they have been incorporating the back row attack more in recent seasons, the lack of plays and routes has resulted in a more predictable offense. With the abundance of young arms and talent, it’s exciting that they’re shifting to a more dynamic style – emulating the one Busboom-Kelly ran at Louisville. 

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Ryan Hunter, the freshman opposite who was only recently cleared to play after an ACL tear, looked as if she hadn’t skipped a beat. With Baylor opposite Allie Szcech coming in for her graduate season, many assumed that she had locked down the starting spot and that Hunter would redshirt, but Ryan is making a case for herself to start. She has an absolute hammer of an arm, puts up a strong block, and has a plethora of raw talent for the coaching staff to mold and exploit. She is a player that could be a gamechanger for the program as well.

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The middles did what the middles do. At this point, the Andi and Rebekah duo is a well-oiled machine, and it likely won't be messed with. With the faster tempo, the sets are being pushed a bit quicker – making it so they’re able to beat the block and bounce the balls. It’s exciting to hear that both of the setters have built a solid connection with them, and it’s going to be critical that they are incorporated into the offense much more next season. 

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The libero battle – the most heated and anticipated one, was not solved in one scrimmage. Both Laney and Olivia got shots at the jersey, and each did what they do best. It has been thrown out that the new two-libero NCAA rule could be implemented; using Olivia for serve receive and Laney for defense. Then again, it is an unconventional method, and they would likely want to just choose one. Homegrown freshman libero Keri Leimbach also made her debut for the Huskers as a defensive specialist for Ryan, and she was very impressive in defense and passing – don’t count her out of contention! Regardless, the legendary Nebraska defense will carry on. 

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Playing-wise, the team looked as cohesive as a team could look in their first month of practice. It was also noted that they were having fun – laughing, smiling, and refreshed. The energy is high and the joy is palpable; we as fans are blessed enough to get to watch them play twice over the next month!