Sold-out crowd awaits No. 18 Creighton vs. No. 1 Nebraska in Omaha

The excitement surrounding the highly anticipated matchup between No. 18 Creighton University and No. 1 University of Nebraska in Omaha is palpable, leading to a sold-out crowd at the CHI Health Center. This thrilling encounter, set to take place this coming Tuesday night, is expected to draw an impressive capacity crowd of 17,352 fans, highlighting the growing popularity and competitive spirit of college volleyball in the region.

### The Significance of the Matchup

Creighton’s Bluejays (5-4) will face off against the undefeated Nebraska Cornhuskers (8-0), who have held the top rank in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) poll for four consecutive weeks. The match carries additional significance, as a full house would allow the Bluejays to reclaim the NCAA record for the largest regular-season, volleyball-only indoor crowd, surpassing the current record of 17,037 set earlier this year during a matchup in Milwaukee between Marquette and Wisconsin.

### A Testament to College Volleyball’s Popularity

The sold-out status of this event signals a remarkable trend in college volleyball’s popularity. This growth isn’t just about fan support; it reflects the increasing quality of the game at the collegiate level. Both teams bring with them a rich history and deep-rooted rivalries, and the presence of passionate supporters will undoubtedly add to the electric atmosphere.

### Preparing for the Event

Given the expected turnout, school officials have reminded fans to plan their travels to the arena carefully. Parking lots are scheduled to open at 3:30 p.m. CT, with doors swinging open at 5 p.m. Additionally, ongoing road construction near the arena may cause significant delays, and the advice to arrive early cannot be understated for those intending to be part of this historic gathering.

In terms of amenities, new improvements have been made to the CHI Health Center, including the installation of a Taraflex court at the D.J. Sokol Arena. Such enhancements not only improve the players’ experience but also underscore the commitment of both institutions to providing a top-tier environment for athletes and fans alike.

### Expectations for the Game

As the Bluejays prepare to take the court, they are looking to not only defend their home turf but also to stage an upset against the formidable Nebraska squad. This match is a pivotal opportunity for Creighton to show its resilience and competitive spirit after a challenging start to the season.

From Nebraska’s perspective, maintaining their undefeated streak is vital. The Cornhuskers have demonstrated remarkable skill, consistently performing well on the national stage, and they will be looking to solidify their standing as the best team in the country by facing such a well-regarded opponent.

### Conclusion

The upcoming college volleyball match between No. 18 Creighton and No. 1 Nebraska represents more than just a competitive sporting event—it’s a celebration of the sport’s growth and popularity in the Midwest. The sold-out crowd indicates a community rallying behind its teams and highlights the budding enthusiasm for volleyball at the collegiate level, which can only bode well for the sport’s future.

As fans gear up for this monumental encounter, one can expect a spirited environment filled with camaraderie and excitement. That’s the essence of college sports, where every game can become an unforgettable experience for players, students, and the local community alike. The anticipation surrounding this face-off demonstrates that volleyball is not just a game but a vibrant part of the cultural fabric in Omaha.

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