After achieving a staggering feat of 15 clean sweeps in recent weeks, Nebraska Volleyball finally dropped a set on Friday against UCLA. The statistic, though, isn’t an indication of a dip in form for the Huskers, but rather an encapsulation of the dominance they have established throughout the season.
Similarly, head coach Dani Busboom Kelly isn’t concerned about the end of the clean sweep streak, as the Huskers remain at the top of the charts with a 25-0 record.
Busboom Kelly Focuses on the Positives After Nebraska Volleyball’s 3–1 Victory Against UCLA
Although they did not achieve a clean sweep at the Pauley Pavilion, Kelly’s team still had plenty of standout performances. The experienced pros on the team, such as Andi Jackson, Harper Murray, and Rebekah Allick, stepped up big time in a challenging away contest, securing 15, 14, and 13 kills, respectively.
Kelly highlighted the impressive efforts of the attacking line, particularly in the intense situations of the match. “It was good for us to get tested, and then I thought we delivered. In some big moments, certain players that knew they were going to get the ball, had to get the kill. It was great to see them do that under pressure,” Nebraska head coach said, while reflecting on the positives the team can retain from the game.
READ MORE: Nebraska Volleyball’s Coach Dani Busboom Kelly Reveals Undefeated Season Was Not the Initial Goal
However, according to Kelly, the Huskers were leapfrogged by UCLA in the defensive spectrum, which is concerning, as the season progresses for them. Defensive specialist Laney Choboy did have a solid game on Friday, concluding her match with 14 digs.
Kelly Highlights Nebraska’s Impressive Attacking Game in the Season
The attacking front of Nebraska has proven to be a strong asset of the team on most occasions this season. Murray, Jackson, and Allick, complemented nicely by freshman Virginia Adriano, have racked up kills for fun, leading to dominant performances for the team.
In an interview prior to the UCLA game, Kelly commented on the performances of the offensive players, stating, “We’re not making many errors, I think our attackers are doing a great job of recycle plays, and they’re keeping the ball in play when they can’t take a swing, and when they do have a great set, they rip it. So, I think they’re making great decisions, and then our setting got better too.”
After a tough battle against UCLA, Kelly’s team will be in action again on Sunday, when they will face USC at the Galen Center. The match promises to be an exciting contest for the audience, with two in-form teams facing each other. Notably, USC is currently on a nine-match winning streak and can likely expose the Huskers’ defensive line.
