Lincoln, Neb. – The Nebraska Cornhuskers made a record-setting start in the NCAA tournament, crushing Florida A&M 25-3, 25-9, 25-17.
The Huskers set school records for fewest points allowed in a set (three) and match (29), with John Cook improving to 90-20 in the NCAA tournament. Nebraska topped Florida A&M in kills (43-16), aces (6-1), and blocks (6-5).
Sophomore outside hitter Harper Murray led the Huskers with 12 kills, while Andi Jackson added eight kills on .538 hitting. Olivia Mauch, a freshman defensive specialist, had four aces.
The Huskers’ serving game was key in the match, as they served out Florida A&M for most of the night. Cook praised his team’s performance, saying “They run people all over place in that (two-setter rotation), so if they don’t pass it’s really hard.”
Nebraska will face Miami (22-10) in the second round at 7 p.m. Saturday, with Coach Cook noting that the team will be challenged by opponents who use a jump serve and have strong arms.
The Huskers’ dominance was evident throughout the match, with Murray saying “I think that says a lot about our focus.” The team’s performance bodes well for their upcoming matchup against Miami.
Source: https://omaha.com/sports/huskers/volleyball/nebraska-volleyball-aces-first-test-sweeps-florida-a-m-in-first-round-of-ncaa-tournament/article_403731c3-ebb4-54ed-b3dd-58aa4dd541cf.html