Nebraska volleyball is set for another thrilling season as the Huskers step confidently into a new era under head coach Dani Busboom Kelly. With a history steeped in tradition, a dynamic new leader, and a roster brimming with returning talent and elite newcomers, Nebraska volleyball remains one of the brightest lights in collegiate sports. Here’s what you need to know as Husker Nation readies for an action-packed 2025.

Changing of the Guard: Dani Busboom Kelly Takes Charge

Dani Busboom Kelly officially begins her tenure as the fourth head coach in the storied Nebraska volleyball history, succeeding the legendary John Cook. Busboom Kelly, a former Husker national champion both as a player and coach, brings a blend of championship DNA and innovative vision. She spent eight stellar seasons at Louisville, turning the Cardinals into a national powerhouse, and now returns home on a mission.

Her transition to Nebraska volleyball has been met with enthusiasm and optimism. According to Busboom Kelly, the move has been a "great transition and pretty smooth," with the team embracing both change and continuity. She credits former coach John Cook's successful blueprint for much of her approach, aiming to maintain the program’s winning culture while adding her own touch. Harper Murray and Bergen Reilly, two returning leaders, note that while the coaching styles differ, the core values of the program remain strong. Read more about Busboom Kelly's vision and the program's transition.

Deep Roster, High Expectations

Nebraska volleyball continues to set the standard with its loaded roster. Junior outside hitter Harper Murray is back after leading the team in kills and earning her second AVCA All-American honor. Setter Bergen Reilly, a dual Big Ten Setter of the Year, orchestrates the offense with poise. The Huskers’ middle is anchored by Andi Jackson, an AVCA First Team All-American, and Rebekah Allick, one of the country’s elite blockers.

The Huskers have depth on the pins. With Taylor Landfair returning, plus the anticipated impact of redshirt freshman Skyler Pierce and true freshman Teraya Sigler, Nebraska boasts numerous options at outside hitter. Sigler, the top recruit in the nation, and Pierce, fresh off a standout prep career, give the Huskers flexibility and competition at the net. At right-side hitter, early-enrolled freshman Ryan Hunter and upcoming transfer Allie Sczech offer additional firepower. Get the full rundown on Nebraska’s hitting options.

Upcoming Matches and Moments to Watch

Nebraska volleyball opens the spring with an exhibition against Kansas, showcasing the new coaching staff and young talent at John Cook Arena. The Huskers continue the tradition of playing spring matches across Nebraska, with a sold-out event set for Ord on May 3. In August, Nebraska is set to participate in the nationally prominent AVCA First Serve Showcase at Pinnacle Bank Arena, facing top opponents like Pittsburgh and Stanford.

Nebraska’s 2025 Big Ten schedule will test the team with home-and-away battles against some of the league’s best, but expectations remain sky-high. The Huskers finished the 2024 season with a 33-3 record, a shared Big Ten title, and another trip to the NCAA Semifinals. This season, the program sits just one win away from becoming the first Division I volleyball team to reach 1,500 all-time victories. For more about the slate and milestones ahead, visit the official Nebraska volleyball preview.

New Names and Award Winners

Freshman Campbell Flynn arrives with major credentials, having been named Gatorade National Player of the Year and starring as a setter for the U.S. U21 Women’s National Team. Nebraska native Lexi Rodriguez capped her Husker career with the prestigious AAU Sullivan Award and rewrote the school record book for digs before moving to the professional ranks.

Six freshmen, including early enrollees Flynn, Sigler, Hunter, and Keri Leimbach, promise to keep Nebraska volleyball at the forefront of the national conversation.

Honoring Legends: John Cook Arena

The Bob Devaney Sports Center officially unveiled its volleyball home as John Cook Arena, cementing Cook’s enormous legacy. Cook guided the Huskers to four national championships, 12 NCAA Semifinal appearances, and 14 conference crowns during a 25-year run. The arena now features new signage and an upcoming bronze statue, uniting Nebraska’s past and present.

Conclusion: Eyes on Omaha and Beyond

Nebraska volleyball stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. With a championship-winning coach, dynamic roster, and unrivaled support from Husker Nation, the 2025 season is brimming with promise. Fans can look forward to high-stakes matches, new stars shining, and the chase for history.

Stay connected with up-to-date Nebraska volleyball news, match previews, and exclusive interviews all season long. Go Big Red!