The NCAA women’s volleyball tournament just had a thrilling upset! Texas A&M stunned the previously undefeated Nebraska team, winning 3-2 and securing their first-ever spot in the Final Four.
Nebraska, a powerhouse with five national titles, seemed unstoppable until they faced a determined Aggies squad that was peaking at the right time. Logan Lednicky of Texas A&M said, “We’ve been here a while, and the new players came ready to work.”
Kyndal Stowers also shined, racking up 25 kills and 16 digs. Texas A&M finished second in the SEC, right behind Kentucky, who also advanced to the Final Four.
Next, Kentucky will take on either Texas or Wisconsin, while Texas A&M faces top-seeded Pitt. The Aggies made waves this tournament, first upsetting Louisville and then overcoming a two-set deficit against Nebraska, clinching the final set 15-13 in front of a shocked home crowd.
This loss marked Nebraska’s first home defeat since November 2022. Historical context shows that this wasn’t just a single upset; it was Texas A&M’s only the second victory over a No. 1 ranked team ever, the first being against Stanford back in 1995.
For Nebraska, it was another close call, as they had hoped to win the championship this year in Kansas City, where they last triumphed in 2017. Since then, they’ve faced heartbreak, losing three times in the national championship match and enduring a semifinal exit last year.
Dani Busboom Kelly, who took over the Nebraska program this season, was looking for a storybook finish after leading Louisville to the finals in previous years. Despite the loss, she admired her team’s fight, remarking, “I’m proud of the way we fought back. We played our hearts out.”
Statistics reveal that Texas A&M’s blocking was a key factor, out-blocking Nebraska 30-16—an impressive feat that contributed to their victory. Coach Jamie Morrison was ecstatic, emphasizing that sports are about proving who’s the best in the moment.
The tournament continues to show that anything can happen, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. As history unfolds, both Texas A&M and other contenders are eager for that coveted championship.
For more on volleyball stats and highlights, check out the NCAA’s official website.
