Athletics

Dear Husker Nation

N Our Voice by Alexis Markowski

Dear Husker NationDillon Galloway

I’m not going to lie—it’s hard to believe I’m writing this.

At the same time, I’m incredibly proud of everything we’ve accomplished, both on and off the court, over these last four years.

This past season was one of the most challenging yet. Key players were injured, and it was a battle just to make it to the NCAA Tournament.

But we did it.

We made it to March Madness.

And I can’t tell you how proud I am of this team and what we accomplished despite the adversity we faced.

There are so many memories I’ll cherish forever—making it to the Big Ten Championship game last year, winning our first March Madness game in a decade, and beating Iowa at home when they were ranked No. 2 in the country.

I’ve been fortunate to experience some incredible moments here at Nebraska, but what I’ll treasure most are the relationships I’ve built and the memories I’ve made with my teammates.

When I chose Nebraska, I knew I was joining a special program with the potential for greatness.

What I didn’t know was just how much I’d grow as both a player and a person—or how deeply I’d come to love this community.

It meant everything to me.

A Husker at Heart

Growing up, it was always my dream to play for Nebraska.

My dad played here, and I knew how special it would be to follow in his footsteps.

When it came time to choose a school, he was one of the first people I turned to for advice. He always told me how playing for Nebraska helped shape his life after basketball, which stuck with me.

My mom, on the other hand, was always my biggest encourager. She instilled confidence in me and made me believe I could achieve anything I set my mind to.

With both of my parents guiding me, I felt prepared to take on the challenges of college basketball and life beyond it. 

Without their love and support, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

Their influence led me to Nebraska, and I’m forever grateful for that.

Of course, my journey wouldn’t be complete without thanking my coach and the amazing training staff.

Coach Amy Williams has played such an important role in my growth as a player. She pushed me to elevate every part of my game.

I still remember her pushing me as a freshman, especially physically.

Her words and actions lit a fire in me. 

From that moment on, I committed to giving 110%—on and off the court.

Her guidance helped me refine my skills, improve my conditioning, and grow into the player I am today.

And I can’t say enough good things about our training staff either.

Their dedication and care meant the world to me, and I’ll always be thankful for their support.

This season, among other honors, I earned my second consecutive All-Big Ten First Team honors and received my second Academic All-Big Ten award.

But none of that compares to the friendships I’ve built, the bonds I’ve formed, and the journey I’ve shared with my teammates.

Even though we didn’t reach our ultimate goal, we proved many people wrong—and we grew stronger together.

Off-Court Experience

While my time as a Husker was defined in many ways by what we did on the court, some of my favorite memories happened off it.

One of the best things we introduced was “sister dates,” an idea brought to us by Maddie Krull after a tough sophomore season.

Each week, we’d pair up with a different teammate and go do something fun together—just to connect beyond basketball.

It transformed our culture. 

It brought us closer.

And it helped us build the kind of trust that shows up when the game’s on the line.

Another unforgettable experience was going on a service trip to Ecuador last summer.

It changed my life.

The people there reminded me to appreciate what I have and not to let a single game affect my happiness.

They helped me find perspective and live more in the moment.

Missing a shot or having a tough game didn’t feel like the end of the world anymore.

That shift in mindset allowed me to play more freely—and enjoy every second of my senior season.

As I prepare for the next chapter, I’m excited to take everything I’ve learned here at Nebraska and carry it with me.

I have dreams of playing in the WNBA, but I also want to become a coach and a broadcaster one day.

Whatever path I choose, I know I’m ready. Nebraska prepared me.

Forever a Husker

To Husker Nation: thank you.

Your unwavering support has meant everything to me.

Playing in front of sold-out arenas, feeling the energy of the crowd—it’s something I’ll never forget.

Your love for women’s basketball has made my time here so incredibly special.

To the young fans: thank you for being part of my journey.

I was once the little girl waiting for an autograph, and it means the world to me to now be on the other side, giving back to the community that gave so much to me.

Thank you for the bracelets, the pictures, the hugs, and the encouragement.

Women’s basketball has come such a long way, and it’s an honor to play in an era where the sport is gaining recognition and respect.

I never imagined playing in packed arenas or having little kids ask for my autograph—but here we are.

It’s a testament to the growth of women’s sports, and I’m so grateful to be part of it.

My time at Nebraska has been nothing short of extraordinary.

And I’ll carry these memories with me for the rest of my life.

Thank you, Husker Nation, for making it all possible.

Forever a Husker,

Alexis