Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk about a big volleyball match that is coming up. It is between Nebraska and Pittsburgh. This match is very important because both teams are really good. They are like the best in the country. The match will happen on August 22, 2025, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska . This place is special because it is Nebraska’s home, and it can hold many fans. Fans and analysts are so excited about this game. They say it will be amazing to watch.
First, let me tell you about Nebraska. Nebraska is a very strong team. They have won many national championships before . Their coach is Dani Busboom Kelly. She is new but very good. She came from Louisville. Some key players are Harper Murray, Merritt Beason, and Lexi Rodriguez. These girls are super talented and win lots of games. Nebraska is always high in the rankings. They are a top team every
Now, about Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is also a great team. They have gone to the Final Four in the NCAA tournament many times . Their coach is Dan Fisher. He is with the team for long time and makes them successful. One of their best players is Olivia Babcock. She was the national player of the year. Pittsburgh is doing well this season, and they want to beat Nebraska this time.
Let’s look at the match preview. Nebraska and Pittsburgh played before. In 2023 NCAA semifinals, Nebraska won . In history, Nebraska beat Pittsburgh 15 times, and Pittsburgh never won [web:16]. But this year, both teams are strong, so maybe it changes. This match is part of the AVCA First Serve Showcase. It’s a big event to start the season. Winning is important for rankings and the tournament later.
| Jersey # | Name | Position | Academic Year | Height | Hometown | Last School |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Emery Dupes | L/DS | R-Sr. | 5′ 6″ | Marietta, Ga. | Walton HS |
| 5 | Olivia Babcock | RS | Jr. | 6′ 4″ | Los Angeles, Calif. | Sierra Canyon HS |
| 6 | Sophia Gregoire | OH | R-So. | 6′ 1″ | Dundee, Ore. | Newberg HS |
| 8 | Blaire Bayless | OH | Jr. | 6′ 2″ | Plano, Texas | Plano West HS |
| 9 | Ryla Jones | MB | So. | 6′ 2″ | Fort Washington, Md. | Flint Hill High School |
| 10 | Marina Pezelj | OH | Fr. | 6′ 1″ | Cannes, France | Lycée Polyvalent Bellevue Toulouse |
| 11 | Dalia Vîrlan | MB | So. | 6′ 4″ | Brasov, Romania | Colegiul Tehnic Feroviar |
| 13 | Mallorie Meyer | L/DS | So. | 5′ 7″ | Roca, Neb. | Lincoln East |
| 14 | Kiana Dinn | RS/S | So. | 5′ 9″ | Union, Ky. | Ryle High School |
| 17 | Brooke Mosher | S | R-Sr. | 6′ 0″ | Waterloo, Wisc. | Waterloo HS |
| 19 | Dagmar Mourits | OH | Fr. | 6′ 1″ | Rotterdam, Netherlands | Hoeksch Lyceum |
| 20 | Abbey Emch | MB | Fr. | 6′ 4″ | New Waterford, Ohio | Crestview HS |
| 21 | Bre Kelley | MB | R-Sr. | 6′ 4″ | Rockwall, Texas | Rockwall |
| 25 | Haiti Tautua’a | S | R-So. | 6′ 0″ | Wai’anae, Hawai’i | Wai’anae HS |
How do they play? Nebraska has strong defense. They stop the other team from scoring easy. They also have balanced offense, with many players who can score. Pittsburgh has good defense too, and powerful hitters like Olivia Babcock. It will be fun to see who breaks the other’s defense.
Key players to watch? For Nebraska, Harper Murray and Merritt Beason. They score a lot. For Pittsburgh, Olivia Babcock is the big star. She can change the game. I think these players will make it exciting.
The match didn’t happen yet, so no highlights now. But I can guess what happens after. If Nebraska wins, it shows they are still the best. It gives them confidence for the season. If Pittsburgh wins, it’s huge because they never beat Nebraska. It could mean they are ready for the championship.
Fans are so excited! On social media, people say they can’t wait to watch. Many fans will go to Pinnacle Bank Arena. It will be full because volleyball is big in Nebraska. I see posts on X saying it’s going to be a loud and fun crowd.
In the end, I think this match will be great. Both teams are awesome, and I can’t wait to see who wins. After this, they will keep playing to reach the NCAA tournament. I think Nebraska might win because they play at home. But Pittsburgh is strong too. What do you think? Who will win? Tell me in the comments!
The match will take place on August 22, 2025, at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Dan Fisher is the head coach of the Pittsburgh Panthers. He’s led the team to multiple Final Four appearances.
Yes, Nebraska has defeated Pittsburgh 15 times in previous matchups, including a win in the 2023 NCAA semifinals. Pittsburgh has never beaten Nebraska.
Pittsburgh has a solid defense and powerful hitters, led by Olivia Babcock, making them a serious threat this season.
