Harper Murray: Poised for a Breakout Season and National Player of the Year Contention
Harper Murray has already solidified herself as one of the most dynamic and skilled outside hitters in collegiate volleyball. As she enters her junior season at the University of Nebraska, expectations are soaring—and for good reason. With All-Big Ten honors, consecutive AVCA All-America selections, and previous national attention, Murray is strategically positioned not only for a breakout year but also as a legitimate contender for National Player of the Year.
Formidable Foundation
Murray’s track record speaks volumes. She burst onto the national scene as Nebraska’s 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, earning AVCA All-America Third Team recognition. As a sophomore in 2024, she elevated her game even further—leading the Huskers with 3.40 kills per set, .257 hitting efficiency, and nine double-doubles. Impressively, she contributed 39 service aces, 2.43 digs per set, and garnered AVCA All-America Second Team honors.
Her postseason prowess is equally notable: a career-high 22 kills, 16 digs, four aces, and four blocks came in a pivotal NCAA Regional Semifinal win over Dayton. She was named Most Outstanding Player at the Lincoln Regional and claimed a spot on the NCAA Championship All-Tournament Team. These performances illustrate not just her athleticism, but her growth in high-pressure situations.
️ Elite Talent with Versatility
From her high school days in Ann Arbor, Mich., Murray demonstrated a rare blend of athleticism and skill. As a senior at Skyline High, she produced staggering numbers—726 kills, 409 digs, 86 aces, and 40 blocks—and earned the prestigious Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year award. Her accolades also include being named “Best Spiker” at the 2022 U19 Pan American Cup, where she helped Team USA secure gold. Transitioning seamlessly to Nebraska, she has continued to impress, anchoring both indoor and beach programs.
Overcoming Challenges and Maturing
Sophomore season wasn’t without personal hurdles. A turbulent offseason tested her resilience. However, Murray displayed remarkable maturity—embracing therapy, leaning on her support network, and refocusing her energy on her craft. Under new head coach Dani Busboom Kelly in 2025, she’s embraced a leadership role, helping freshmen acclimate and adapting to new systems with enthusiasm and grace.
On Track for a Stellar Junior Campaign
As she embarks on her third year in Lincoln, Murray stands poised for historic achievements. Nebraska’s coaching staff describes her work ethic as razor-sharp—meticulous about fundamentals, relentless in preparation, and laser-focused on refinement . With Ivy-league level competition from incoming transfers and seasoned teammates, she’s entering a battle-tested environment that will highlight her capabilities.
If Murray can replicate—or exceed—her sophomore year output, she’ll be poised for not only conference recognition but also a serious case for National Player of the Year. Her dynamic game—marked by aggressive attacking, serve potency, defensive coverage, and clutch postseason performances—makes her a top candidate for such high honors.
✨ The Road Ahead
With her resumed presence at spring exhibitions and an empowering summer in Jamaica—she remarked fondly, “I’m obsessed”—Murray is fully charged for what lies ahead. Fans and analysts alike are now asking: Can she turn potential into historical accomplishments?
The season ahead could see Murray:
- Lead Big Ten in key stats – kills per set, hitting percentage, service aces.
- Steal headlines nationally – through MVP performances in conference tournaments and NCAA matches.
- Capture National Player of the Year honors – joining an elite collegiate conversation.
Nebraska’s junior outside hitter has all the prerequisites: raw talent, a strong mental game, proven track record, and top-tier support. If she continues on this trajectory, Harper Murray is not just poised for a breakout season—she’s prepping to dominate it.
Prepare for a season-defining campaign. This is Harper Murray’s moment.
