Nebraska volleyball is experiencing a surge in popularity, fueled in large part by star player Harper Murray’s landmark deal with Adidas, which was celebrated with Murray’s image projected onto the Love Library. Nebraska head coach John Cook, now in his 69th year, has likened the atmosphere to an NBA game, specifically drawing comparisons to Michael Jordan.
“I asked Jamie Gordon (AVCA CEO)… I had coffee with him this morning, and I said, ‘What do you think about all this?’ He goes, ‘This all started with a stadium match,’” Cook told Hail Varsity. He referenced the Huskers’ record-setting August 2023 match at Memorial Stadium.
The 2023 match propelled Nebraska to the forefront of college volleyball, and the subsequent viewership records – including last year’s record-breaking semifinal against Penn State – further amplified the buzz. After watching the 2025 season kick off inside a sold-out Pinnacle Bank Arena, Cook felt the energy was reminiscent of an NBA game.
“Yeah, it’s unbelievable. It’s awesome. I was downtown this morning, and I see that all over. I saw it on Love Library, and I just feel like Michael Jordan’s here,” Cook told Ana Bellinghausen about NLU’s tribute to Harper Murray.
The atmosphere intensified as the crowd swelled to over 15,200 fans. “I mean, that’s what it feels like. It feels like the NBA is here,” Cook stated after the game. The fact that Murray led the Huskers with 15 kills, combined with the home-turf advantage of Pinnacle Bank Arena, solidified the Jordan comparison.
During a conversation with Hail Varsity, Cook shared that he sent Dani Busboom Kelly, the newly appointed head coach, a text message: “I sent [Dani Busboom Kelly] a text last night. I told her enjoy it.” He acknowledged the pressure Kelly was feeling, understanding the immense task of stepping into Cook’s shoes, particularly given his role as her mentor.
The Huskers’ opening game against Pitt Volleyball proved successful, with a dominant 3-1 victory. Olivia Babcock notched 21 kills, while Murray contributed 15 kills and Andi Jackson provided 10 kills and 8 blocks. Rebekah Allick and Taylor Landfair offered versatility, and Bergen Reilly, who had struggled during the Red-White and Alumni Scrimmages, delivered a double-double. Despite Pitt being a preseason No. 3 team, the Huskers, led by Cook’s successor, demonstrated a strong start and a promising future.