Lexi Rodriguez, Madisen Skinner, and Teammates Shine in Hopeful USA Volleyball Debut Amid LOVB Challenges

**Rising from Heartbreak: Lexi Rodriguez’s Journey to Team USA and the VNL**

When life tosses her a tough set, Lexi Rodriguez knows how to rise and spike it right back. Just weeks ago, Lexi and her LOVB Omaha crew were riding an emotional rollercoaster after falling short in the League One Volleyball (LOVB) championship. They faced off against a powerhouse Austin team, fueled by former Longhorn legends Logan Eggleston and Madisen Skinner. The final match was a gut-wrenching experience for Omaha, with set scores reading 25-19, 25-22, and 25-23. Skinner was on fire that day, dominating with 17 kills and proving her prowess in defense and strategy. With Austin walking away with the crown, Lexi’s heartbreak was palpable.

However, Lexi is not one to stay down for long. Despite the loss, she’s flipping the script and gearing up for what could be a new chapter in her career by joining forces with Skinner on a stacked roster for Team USA. Just recently, both stars found themselves on the impressive 30-player long-list for the 2025 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) squad. This roster is packed with Olympians and VNL veterans, including fan-favorites like Jordyn Poulter, Avery Skinner, and Dana Rettke. While Madisen has already faced the challenge at the VNL, Lexi is looking to prove herself as a top contender to be one of the final 14 selected.

This situation is the type of full-circle magic that the volleyball gods seem to favor. The VNL kicks off in June, starting off in the tropical paradise of Rio de Janeiro, before moving to Belgrade and concluding in Arlington, Texas in July. It’s a thrilling opportunity for both Lexi and Madisen, who could trade their rival jerseys for a common one, showcasing their skills on an international stage.

As Lexi continues to battle for her spot on the national team, she finds herself competing with formidable players like Morgan Hentz from Stanford, Zoe Jarvis, and Baylor’s Lauren Briseno. While both Hentz and Jarvis have already established their reputations through past VNL participation, Lexi’s tenacity and determination will be crucial. The fight is fierce, but if anyone knows how to scramble for greatness, it’s Lexi Rodriguez. Adding to her momentum, she recently bagged the prestigious 2025 AAU James E. Sullivan Award, an accolade that recognizes her as the first Husker to do so. Head coach Dani Busboom Kelly didn’t hold back his enthusiasm, offering heartfelt congratulations and affirming Lexi’s status as a standout athlete.

Despite weathering a challenging season with LOVB Omaha, Lexi’s commitment to hard work has not gone unnoticed. Coach Erik Sullivan praised the energy and determination that the players bring to practice, emphasizing a robust team ethic focused on continuous improvement. Fans are keenly aware of how Lexi leveraged her skills; she contributed 37 digs in 10 games despite her limited playtime, showcasing her readiness to shine even amidst competition. The lingering question now is whether Lexi’s grit and spirit will fuel her rise in the NCAA hierarchy and secure her a spot on Team USA in time for the VNL.

Turning back the clock to her collegiate career, the 2024 season was a whirlwind for Lexi and the Huskers. The team boasted an impressive 22-1 home record and seized the Big Ten championship for the 36th time. Head coach John Cook had high hopes of adding a national title to that collection, particularly significant for the seniors concluding their college careers. Unfortunately, those dreams were dashed in the semifinals by a formidable Penn State squad. Yet, Lexi walked off the court with a remarkable legacy, recording 1,897 career digs and cementing her place in Nebraska volleyball history.

Following her senior season, Lexi transitioned to the professional realm with LOVB Omaha, eager to take on new challenges. Initially, the start was promising, but the dynamics shifted with the presence of fellow Nebraska alum, Olympic libero Justine Wong-Orantes. Competition for court time became intense, and social media buzzed with discussions around Lexi’s playing time. Nevertheless, her dedication when she did compete was evident, proving to fans and teammates alike that she is ready to make waves in the professional circuit. The burning question now looms: will Lexi’s determination, skill, and perseverance position her as a role model and key player for Team USA at the VNL? The stage is set for an electrifying rivalry that might just become an inspiring saga of friendship and teamwork.