Indiana volleyball entered its second away match of the week to a sold-out match against No. 2 Nebraska and prepared for the challenges of facing a team that handles its opponents on both offense and defense. The Cornhuskers, undefeated in Big Ten play, showcased Saturday why they’re at the top of the conference.
From the start of each set, Nebraska asserted control with early leads, leaving the Hoosiers struggling to respond. Indiana found it difficult to penetrate Nebraska’s defense and consistently land points, compounding its troubles.
Nebraska never let up, sweeping Indiana in straight sets at the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. The loss extends Indiana’s winless streak to four games as the team now heads back to Bloomington.
The Cornhuskers set the tone early in the first set with a dominant 15-1 run, building a commanding 20-7 lead. Indiana struggled at the net, committing seven attacking errors during the Nebraska run as the Cornhuskers' defense applied relentless pressure at the net.
In the second and third sets, Indiana stayed more competitive, losing by only 6 points in the third. However, Nebraska’s late offensive surges proved decisive, including a 7-3 run in the second set, which allowed the Cornhuskers to maintain control and secure the match.
Nebraska’s defense stifled Indiana’s attack, preventing any Hoosier from reaching double-digit kills. Junior outside hitters Avry Tatum and Candela Alonso-Corcelles led Indiana with eight and seven kills, respectively, while no other player recorded more than three.
Meanwhile, Nebraska’s dominance at the net was evident as the team recorded 45 kills to Indiana’s 29 across three sets. Sophomore outside hitter Harper Murray led with double-digit kills, but Nebraska's offensive balance was also on display. Four other players contributed at least five kills, emphasizing the team’s depth and efficiency. Sophomore middle blocker Andi Jackson was particularly effective, hitting 63.6% and recording eight kills on 11 attempts.
With Indiana on a four game losing streak for the second time this season, it has a chance to break it as three of final four matches of the season take place at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington, where the Hoosiers hold an 8-4 record. As of Saturday, Nebraska is the last ranked opponent Indiana faces this season. The Hoosiers now have an opportunity to build momentum against unranked teams in their remaining matches as they seek an NCAA Tournament bid.
Indiana’s next match is at 7 p.m. Friday against UCLA, the final new Big Ten member on the Hoosiers’ schedule, at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington. The match can be viewed on Big Ten+.
