Top Questions Going into Spring Game vs. Kansas

I’m abundant with anticipation for the spring game tonight, but there are tons of spiraling questions lingering in the back of my mind. It’s been over four months since we’ve gotten to watch the team all play together again, and I can’t be more excited to see what this team brings to the table. With leaders that have matured into seasoned veterans over the last two seasons like Rebekah Allick, Bergen Reilly, and Harper Murray, amalgamated with a freshman class whose talent rivals the ‘23s and an entirely new coach running the show – it’s safe to say that this team is one of the frontrunners to take it all next season, the question is whether or not they can pull it off. But that’s a a big question – for another day. Here are my top overall questions and ones specific to the heated position battles;

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1). Reilly vs. Campbell: Which one incorporates the middles more – do they push them even on the tough out-of-system sets? Missed connections are bound to happen in the offseason, especially with the quicker tempo they’re trying to run, but which setter minimizes their errors and maximizes their touches both location and IQ wise? Is the offense diverse or reliant on a single attacker, who is getting their hitters one-on-ones, etc.  

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2). Battle for OH2: For so long Nebraska has lacked a consistently terminal second outside, and out of the firepower arms of Landfair, Pierce, and Sigler, one of them is bound to break the curse. It has been emphasized this offseason that they want to limit their tipping, so pay attention to who is taking big swings even on the tough sets. Who uses the full range of their shots – not just hitting to middle back or the libero? Who has the best passing rate and is most efficient out of the back row?

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3). Hunter’s Health: Freshman Opposite Ryan Hunter suffered an ACL tear over a year ago, but was cleared to play again a few months ago. She sat out beach season as part of rehab, but she “hasn’t skipped a rep” according to Busboom-Kelly and has a hammer of an arm. If Hunter is able to play like her pre-injury self, it bodes well for future and puts her in the running for the starting spot. I would pay attention to how she handles out of system balls and her blocking technique. 

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4).  Looking For Libero: Busboom-Kelly has said that she’s not looking to implement the two-libero system that the NCAA recently allowed, and is looking for a singular, consistent libero. Whether that is Choboy or auch is anyone's guess, but the game tonight should shed some life onto it. Dani said the most imperative skill for all liberos to possess is good passing and ball control, which Olivia has the advantage in. However, Busboom-Kelly does like her Elena Scott-esque players – relentless and energetic, makes unbelievable saves, and is not afraid to sacrifice body for the ball. Lets see who stands out more this evening.

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5).  Chemistry! We’ve seen the Tiktoks of this team enjoying each other's company, but now we get to see how it will translate to the court. This group is young, energetic, and most of all – hungry. The last two years have culminated into this season, but they can’t allow themselves to be burdened by the past. I want to see them play liberated – focused entirely on their side of the net, engaging with and supporting each other, and doing it with joy. I think that's the key to it all.