Sat Dec 21 15:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Penn State Shocks Nebraska in Five-Set Thriller to Reach NCAA Volleyball Championship

**Louisville, KY** – In a stunning upset that captivated a record-breaking crowd, Penn State Nittany Lions rallied from a two-set deficit to defeat the top-seeded Nebraska Huskers 23-25, 18-25, 25-23, 28-26, 15-13 in the NCAA women’s volleyball semifinals on Friday night. The victory marks Penn State’s first appearance in the championship match since 2017 and their 14th overall.

Nebraska, led by Andi Jackson’s powerful performance (18 kills), dominated the first two sets. However, Penn State’s Jess Mruzik (17 kills) and Izzy Starck (six blocks) ignited a remarkable comeback in the third set, fueled by a decisive 5-0 run.

The fourth set was a nail-biter. Nebraska held a commanding 22-16 lead, seemingly poised for victory. But Penn State, displaying incredible resilience, fought back, capitalizing on Nebraska errors and crucial blocks to snatch the set 28-26.

The fifth and final set was an intense back-and-forth battle. Ultimately, it was Starck’s final block that sealed the victory for Penn State, sending shockwaves through the 21,726 fans – the largest crowd ever to witness an NCAA volleyball semifinal.

Lexi Rodriguez, who surpassed Justine Wong-Orantes to become Nebraska’s all-time digs leader during the match, couldn’t prevent the upset. Despite Jackson’s impressive 18 kills and Rebekah Allick’s strong defense, Nebraska’s momentum faltered in the face of Penn State’s determined comeback.

The Nittany Lions will now face Louisville in the championship match on Sunday, December 22nd.

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