Several Huskers emerging as leaders ahead of Nebraska basketball’s 2023-24 season

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Nebraska women’s basketball wants to prove that it belongs in the postseason, head coach Amy Williams said Tuesday.

Last season, Nebraska made it to the WNIT but missed out on a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

“Our team is really motivated to show that we deserve to be playing in the NCAA tournament and that’s something that we’re going to have to prove every single day,” Williams said.

The Huskers opened up practice for the 2023-24 season this week, and Williams said the big focus has been defense.

“We’ve been probably committing a little more of our practice plan toward defense than we’ve done in the past but trying to increase our focus on being a pretty intense team on that side of the ball,” she said.

Two longtime leaders – Isabelle Bourne and Sam Haiby – finished their collegiate careers with the Huskers last season.

Williams said that several returning players, including Jaz Shelley and Annika Stewart, are stepping up to fill those shoes.

“Just understanding what we want this program, this team, you know, this season to look like and being able to be vocal about that with our newcomers, it’s been really special to watch,” Williams said.

Nebraska begins its regular season against Northwestern State on Nov. 6.

SEE ALSO: Nebraska women’s basketball releases schedule for 2023-24 season