All-American middle Taya Beller leads third-ranked Wayne State to a victory over 13th-ranked Nebraska Kearney in an NCAA Tournament second round match. Wayne State rallied in the final two sets to win the match.

Why It Matters

This game marked the first meeting between Wayne State and Nebraska Kearney in eight years and the first-ever national tournament battle between the two teams. Nebraska Kearney still holds a significant advantage in the all-time series.

By the Numbers
  • Taya Beller had a match-high 22 kills for Wayne State.
  • Wayne State registered six more blocks than Nebraska Kearney.
  • Nebraska Kearney hit .306 in the third set, their best set of the match.
Yes, But

Despite the loss, Nebraska Kearney's coach praised the team's effort, mentioning that they competed at a high level and left it all out on the court.

State of Play
  • Wayne State is ranked number one for much of the last two seasons.
  • Nebraska Kearney had a 69-10 all-time series advantage over Wayne State.
What's Next

Nebraska Kearney's season has come to an end with this loss in the NCAA Tournament. Wayne State will continue on in the tournament.

Bottom Line

Wayne State's victory over Nebraska Kearney marks an important milestone in their rivalry and advances them in the NCAA Tournament.