Los Angeles Thunder, Omaha Supernovas will face off on February 28 at John Cook Arena
Major League Volleyball (MLV) has announced the inaugural MLV John Cook Invitational presented by JUNKLESS, featuring the Omaha Supernovas and the Los Angeles Thunder on Sunday, February 28, 2027. The match will take place at John Cook Arena on the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln. The special matchup will honor Cook’s lasting impact on volleyball, celebrate Nebraska’s passionate volleyball community and spotlight the continued growth of women’s professional volleyball in the U.S.
Nebraska has long been one of the sport’s most influential communities, with generations of fans helping establish volleyball as a defining part of the state’s identity. With Omaha serving as the home of professional volleyball in Nebraska, the Supernovas are carrying that tradition into the professional game, building on the state's deep connection to volleyball and bringing that enthusiasm to audiences across the country. The invitational extends that professional experience to Lincoln for a special night of competition and celebration.
“There is no better place to celebrate the past, present and future of volleyball than Lincoln, and few people have done more to advance the sport in the U.S. than John Cook,” said Jaime Weston, commissioner of Major League Volleyball. “The John Cook Invitational reflects what MLV is building, which is a league that elevates the professional game, showcases the incredible talent of its athletes, and brings volleyball to the national stage it deserves. Bringing that vision to a community with such a deep passion for the sport makes this event especially meaningful. This is the Major Leagues, and we’re building the future of professional volleyball.”
The matchup also offers Nebraska fans an opportunity to see the Los Angeles Thunder, one of MLV’s newest franchises, compete on a major stage. As the league continues to expand its reach and connect with new audiences, they represent the next chapter of professional volleyball, bringing a new team, market and fan base into the league.
“Volleyball is part of the fabric of Nebraska, and the fans here have played an enormous role in shaping the sport,” said John Cook, co-owner and general manager of the Omaha Supernovas. “The Supernovas are building on that tradition at the professional level, and being involved with MLV gives me an opportunity to help grow the game for the next generation. Bringing these two teams to Lincoln is a great way to celebrate the people who have supported volleyball for decades and the athletes continuing to raise its level.”
“The idea for this invitational was immediately exciting as we began sharing concepts between our ownership groups,” said Ben Priest, governor and managing partner of the Los Angeles Thunder. “I have a long history with the Omaha Supernovas and their ownership, including Coach Cook, having previously served as an owner and governor of the team. We have tremendous respect for what they have built and the care and execution they will bring to this phenomenal event. We’re thrilled to be part of this inaugural invitational and return to Nebraska to experience the incredible team and volleyball community that bring this sport to life, this time from the other sideline.”
For MLV, the invitational reflects a commitment to honoring the people and communities that have shaped volleyball while building new opportunities for the sport’s future. With Cook’s legacy at its center, the event will bring together an established volleyball powerhouse, an emerging professional franchise and fans who continue to fuel the game’s momentum.
“Omaha is our home, and we're proud of the foundation we've built for professional volleyball there,” said Amanda Sjuts, team president, Omaha Supernovas. “As a former Husker who played for Coach Cook, I know firsthand how much this program and its history mean to Nebraska. Bringing the Supernovas to John Cook Arena connects the past, present, and future of volleyball in our state while giving even more fans an opportunity to experience the professional game.”
“At JUNKLESS, we believe great nutrition should fuel an active lifestyle and make every moment more enjoyable. That’s why we’re thrilled to partner with Major League Volleyball and the John Cook Invitational,” said Brian Camus, President of JUNKLESS Foods. “Volleyball is the perfect combination of athleticism, competition, and infectious energy. We’re excited to be part of that experience and celebrate the athletes and fans who make this sport so special.”
Fans can secure early access to purchase tickets for the Omaha Supernovas vs. Los Angeles Thunder match by signing up today at mlvb.com. Pre-sales access begins November 4, with tickets on sale to the general public on November 12.
About Major League Volleyball
Major League Volleyball (MLV) is the premier professional volleyball league in the United States, designed to provide the sport and its athletes with the major league platform they deserve. Founded on a player-first philosophy, MLV combines elite competition, significant investment in athlete development, experienced professional sports ownership and a commitment to the long-term growth of volleyball across the country. As the league enters its fourth season in 2027, MLV has expanded to 12 teams from coast-to-coast in some of the top media markets in the nation. It will continue to create top-level, lasting opportunities and memories for players, coaches and local communities while leading the way in solidifying the future of professional volleyball in North America. For more information, visit MLVB.com and follow the league on Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube.
About JUNKLESS
Founded in 2018, JUNKLESS® is on a mission to make indulgent, junk-free snacks your tastebuds and family will thank you for. It began with their award-winning line of delicious Chewy Granola Bars made with real ingredients like 100% whole grain oats and less sugar than the leading national brand and in 2025 JUNKLESS upgraded another popular snack staple to an indulgent new level with JUNKLESS® Protein Bars. With 15g of protein, high fiber, low sugar, and no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners, they are proving once again that snacks that are better-for-you can actually taste amazing as well, delivering functional indulgence so you can snack smarter, any time of day. For more information on JUNKLESS, visit JUNKLESSFoods.com and follow the JUNKLESS journey on Instagram - @JUNKLESSFoods, TikTok - @JUNKLESSFoods and Facebook - @JUNKLESSFoods.
John Cook Invitational Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MLV John Cook Invitational?
The John Cook Invitational is a Major League Volleyball event at the Devaney Center designed to celebrate the legacy of one of Nebraska volleyball’s most influential figures while helping grow the league’s fanbase. The matchup will see the Los Angeles Thunder take on the Omaha Supernovas, bringing together two teams with a unique connection to legendary Husker volleyball coach and current Supernovas Co-Owner & General Manager, John Cook. A California native, Cook’s remarkable career has created a special connection between the two markets, making this matchup a fitting celebration of his lasting impact on growing the sport of volleyball.
Who is the home team for this event?
The Los Angeles Thunder are designated as the home team for this event. Each team in the MLV has 13 home matches on its schedule and all 13 of the Omaha Supernovas’ home matches are played at the CHI Health Center Omaha.
Why are the Supernovas and Thunder playing a match in Lincoln, away from their traditional home venue?
The MLV is looking to elevate the fan experience by bringing a professional volleyball match to one of the most iconic volleyball venues in the world — John Cook Arena at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Hosting a match in this historic venue creates a unique opportunity to showcase the league in front of Nebraska’s passionate volleyball community while delivering an unforgettable experience for fans.
Is this included in the season ticket packages for the LA Thunder or Omaha Supernovas?
This match will not be included in either team’s season ticket package. For the Omaha Supernovas, the match is being played outside of their home venue, the CHI Health Center Omaha, which will host all 13 home matches included in the Supernovas’ season ticket package. Similarly, because the event will take place out of state and will utilize a separate ticketing platform, it will not be included in the Los Angeles Thunder’s 2027 season ticket package. As a standalone event, the match provides an opportunity to reach new fans and create an additional experience outside of each team’s traditional home schedule.
Will season ticket members for both teams have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the John Cook Classic before the general public?
Yes. Season ticket members for both the Los Angeles Thunder and Omaha Supernovas will receive an exclusive opportunity to purchase tickets to the event before tickets are made available to the general public. A dedicated season ticket member presale is planned for November, giving members of both organizations early access to secure tickets and be part of this special event before the public on-sale.
What is priority order for the pre-sale for Thunder and Supernovas Season Ticket Members?
Priority order for the pre-sale will be based on premium season ticket members for the franchise and consecutive years of purchase of season tickets for teams. On Wednesday, November 4 at 10 am CT both teams premium season ticket members will have access to the first pre-sale. On Thursday, November 5 at 10 am CT all other season ticket members from both franchises will have access to the pre-sale.
Will Husker Volleyball season ticket members have any priority to purchase tickets before the general public?
Yes, Husker Volleyball season ticket members will also be able to be a part of the pre-sale for this event on Thursday, November 5 at 2 pm CT.
Is anyone else eligible for the pre-sale?
Yes, fans on the John Cook Invitational fanbase through MLV will have access to a pre-sale on Friday, November 6 at 10 am CT. Supernovas Mini Plan Holders and those on the Nebraska Volleyball Fan List will have access to a pre-sale on Monday, November 9 at 10 am CT
When will tickets go on sale for the general public?
Any remaining tickets after the pre-sales will go on sale to the general public on November 12 at 10 am CT.
Will there be an opportunity for fans to purchase tickets in the Premium Areas at the Devaney Center?
Courtside tickets will be available when the pre-sales begin. The Libero Club will not be open for this event. Loge seating will be sold at the discretion of the Husker Athletic Department.
How much will tickets cost for the John Cook Invitational?
Tickets in the seating bowl range from $10–$40 per ticket, with courtside seating available for $140 per ticket.
Will college students get the opportunity to attend this event for free with their Student ID?
No, college students will not be able to attend this event for free with their student ID as it is not a Husker Athletics event and also outside of the CHI Health Center Omaha as one of the Supernovas home matches.
How will parking be handled for this event?
Parking will be available on a first come, first choice basis on match day. We will announce more information on parking as part of the 'Know Before You Go' information heading into the event.
How can I access my tickets for the event after purchasing tickets?
Tickets will be available through Huskers eVenue accounts at: https://huskers.evenue.net/signin
When will doors open for this event?
Doors will open for the event 90 minutes prior to first serve.
Where will this match be broadcast for fans to watch and what time is first serve?
More information regarding the first serve time as well as the broadcast outlet for this event will be released at a later date.