Beating Former Team and Nebraska Best Friend for Title: Caroline Jurevicius Ends Big Ten Season With Huge Honor
Caroline Jurevicius’ journey is one of triumph and reunion—a story that intertwines loyalty, resilience, and the thrill of victory. Imagine standing across the net from not just any opponent, but your old teammates and your best friend, knowing you need to give it your all. This was the exact scenario for Jurevicius as she faced the Nebraska Huskers, the team she once played for. Now, wearing the Penn State Nittany Lions colors, Jurevicius delivered a masterful performance that would see her earn a share of the Big Ten championship and a major accolade to end the season. Her story is the kind that makes you want to keep reading.
The tension in the air was almost tangible as Jurevicius went up against the No. 1 team in the nation. With 18 kills and a hitting percentage above .400, her performance was nothing short of spectacular. Facing a squad that boasted a 25-game win streak, including victories over Wisconsin, it would have been easy for Jurevicius to buckle under pressure. But she didn’t. Instead, she demonstrated the full force of her leadership, cementing her name in Big Ten history. It was Penn State’s first share of the Big Ten title since 2017, and Jurevicius was right in the middle of it.
And let’s not forget the most touching part of this showdown: the genuine bond between Jurevicius and her best friend, Andi Jackson, who was lining up on the other side. Despite the fierce competition, Jurevicius held nothing but love for the Huskers, acknowledging the difficulty but also the gratitude she felt for her former teammates. “I have nothing but love and respect for the Nebraska Volleyball Program. They’re a great group of girls. I threw the ball to my best friend, Andi Jackson, across the net beforehand. And I am very, very thankful for that program,” Jurevicius shared in a post-game interview with Michella Chester.
With the Big Ten season concluded, Nebraska and Penn State shared the conference crown. Jurevicius’s performance didn’t go unnoticed, and neither did her resilience. On December 2, via X, Big Ten Volleyball announced the week’s top award winners, and among them, the headline was Jurevicius herself, earning the Freshman of the Week honor for her outstanding contribution to the Nittany Lions. Alongside her, setter Izzy Starck also got her recognition—earning Setter of the Week—demonstrating her ability to guide the team with finesse and consistency.
But, Penn State wasn’t the only team in the Big Ten to make waves. Minnesota’s own stars were putting in remarkable shifts, leading them to well-deserved accolades. Julia Hanson was named Player of the Week for her standout season, having played all 30 matches and averaging a stunning 4.61 points and 4.05 kills per set. Her presence on the court was unmatched, and her ability to turn any play into a scoring opportunity was pivotal for her team. Consistency was Hanson’s secret weapon, and it showed game after game.
Phoebe Awoleye, the defensive anchor of Minnesota, also had her moment of glory as she secured the Defensive Player of the Week honor. With 1.50 blocks per set, Awoleye showed unwavering determination and was a force that opposing hitters had to reckon with. Not only did she prove herself to be a formidable blocker, but she also demonstrated versatility with her kills and digs. Her defensive prowess was crucial for Minnesota throughout the season, making her the go-to player to rely on when the stakes were high.
Caroline Jurevicius’s journey, along with the achievements of players like Hanson and Awoleye, showcases the incredible level of talent in Big Ten Volleyball this season. From personal reunions to breaking records and earning titles, these athletes have made their mark, inspiring others with their resilience, sportsmanship, and undeniable skill.
