Another Departure Confirmed at Nebraska Volleyball as Star Outside Hitter Leaves Program

Another Departure Confirmed at Nebraska Volleyball as Star Outside Hitter Leaves Program

LINCOLN, Neb. — June 23, 2025

The Nebraska volleyball program has confirmed yet another unexpected roster shake-up, as junior outside hitter Kayla Benton has announced her departure from the team, becoming the second key player to exit the program this offseason.

Benton, a two-year starter and former five-star recruit out of Texas, made her decision public in an emotional social media post on Monday morning, citing a need for “personal growth, reflection, and a new environment to continue her journey — both on and off the court.”

“I will always cherish my time in Lincoln,” Benton wrote. “This team, these fans, and this coaching staff have been part of some of the most unforgettable moments in my life. But after deep conversations with family, coaches, and mentors, I’ve decided it’s time for a new chapter.”

Her departure comes just weeks after sophomore libero Ava Jenkins entered the transfer portal, raising eyebrows about the team’s internal dynamics heading into the 2025 season.

Head Coach John Cook addressed the latest exit in a brief statement released Monday afternoon.

“Kayla is a tremendous talent and a fierce competitor,” Cook said. “While we are disappointed to see her go, we fully support her decision and are proud of what she accomplished here at Nebraska. She will always be part of our Husker family.”

Benton’s contributions to Nebraska’s success over the last two seasons were undeniable. She totaled 642 kills, 211 digs, and was a consistent force on both ends of the floor. Her clutch performances in the 2024 NCAA Tournament helped push the Huskers to the Final Four before falling in a five-set thriller to Wisconsin.

While Benton did not specify her next destination, multiple sources indicate that she has drawn interest from top programs including Stanford, Louisville, and Texas.

The departure adds another wrinkle to Nebraska’s offseason narrative, one filled with both excitement and uncertainty. The Huskers still return a talented core, including All-American setter Lily Radke and rising sophomore middle blocker Simone Gray, but will now face the challenge of replacing one of their most dynamic offensive threats.

Husker Nation has responded with a mix of gratitude and concern.

“She gave us everything on the court, and we’ll miss her fire,” said longtime fan Megan Hollister outside Devaney Center. “But I trust Coach Cook. He’s built this program to withstand any challenge.”

With fall training camp just weeks away, Nebraska’s coaching staff will likely look to incoming freshmen and the transfer portal to retool the lineup. All eyes will be on how the team regroups and reasserts its dominance in what’s shaping up to be a loaded Big Ten Conference.

Though her time in Lincoln ends sooner than expected, Kayla Benton leaves a legacy of passion, effort, and championship-level volleyball. Wherever she lands next, the impact she made as a Kayla BentonHusker will be remembered.