LOVB volleyball game between Austin and Nebraska at the HEB Center in Cedar Park, Texas on January 7, 2026. With the Longhorn Pep Band and Girlset. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
The professional volleyball season in Central Texas kicked off with an absolute thriller as a jubilant home crowd at the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park witnessed a resilient LOVB Austin squad secure a gutsy five set victory over LOVB Nebraska. In a match defined by momentum shifts and physical play, the reigning champions proved their mettle by rallying late to claim a 22 to 25, 25 to 20, 22 to 25, 25 to 22, and 15 to 9 win. The dramatic results showcased a team capable of maintaining composure under pressure, ultimately outlasting a disciplined Nebraska side to move to 1 and 0 on the young season.
The contest opened as a back and forth battle, with Nebraska striking the first blow by capitalizing on late errors to take the first set. However, Austin quickly found their rhythm in the second frame. Guided by the poised orchestration of setter Brie O’Reilly in her league debut, the offense began to stretch the Nebraska defense. With disciplined blocking and a more balanced attack, Austin evened the match with a 25 to 20 win. Although Nebraska reclaimed the lead in the third set by utilizing a high tempo transition game, the stage was set for a massive Austin comeback.
The fourth set proved to be the turning point of the evening. Austin sharpened their defensive reads and made smarter decisions at the net, allowing them to dictate the pace of play rather than simply reacting to Nebraska's power. This newfound offensive rhythm forced a decisive fifth set, where Austin immediately seized control with a 6 to 1 run. The home team utilized aggressive serving and scrappy backcourt defense to keep Nebraska off balance, never trailing in the final frame and ultimately sealing the match with a dominant 15 to 9 finish.
Statistically, Austin was nearly flawless on the attack, hitting a collective .348 with an astounding 72 kills and only eight errors throughout the night. Logan Eggleston was a constant thorn in Nebraska's side, leading the team with 22 points and a team high 13 digs in a stellar two way performance. Not far behind was Madisen Skinner, who tallied 20 points and 17 kills while consistently finding gaps in the opposing block. Newcomer Madi Banks added significant firepower with 16 kills of her own, while the middle attack remained incredibly efficient. Bella Bergmark hit a jaw dropping .778 with seven kills, and Asjia O’Neal contributed eight kills with a strong .467 hitting percentage.
The defensive effort was bolstered by 57 team digs and nine blocks, providing the stability needed to weather Nebraska's best runs. Brie O’Reilly was the catalyst for the high flying offense, as Austin hitters converted at a .408 rate off her sets. This opening night victory sets a high bar for the rest of the season as the team prepares to continue their homestand. Fans will not have to wait long to see this powerhouse squad back in action, as they return to the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park this coming Sunday, January 11, for another highly anticipated matchup at 6:30 p.m. Central.
LOVB Austin
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