LINCOLN, Neb. — In a stunning and emotional turn of events, Nebraska Cornhuskers women’s basketball star Natalie Potts has announced she will miss the remainder of the 2024–25 season due to a torn ACL suffered earlier this season. The announcement, made via her personal social media accounts, left Husker fans, teammates, and even basketball supporters around the country in shock.
The 6-foot-2 sophomore forward had been having a breakout season, averaging 14.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 70% from the floor. Her presence in the paint, defensive tenacity, and leadership had quickly made her one of the most impactful players in the Big Ten and a rising name nationally.
The injury occurred during Nebraska’s convincing 85–48 win over North Alabama back in November, but until now, the extent of the damage had not been made public. On Friday, Potts confirmed the worst: a full ACL tear that would require season-ending surgery and a long rehabilitation process.
“Surgery is done, and now I’m officially one day closer to being back on the court with my best friends,” Potts wrote in her heartfelt message. “This isn’t the season I imagined, but I’m embracing the journey. I’ll be back — stronger than ever.”
The announcement immediately sent ripples through social media, with fans, former players, and even NBA athletes posting messages of encouragement. Many praised Potts for her courage and her team-first mindset during what is clearly a devastating moment for any young athlete.
Head coach Amy Williams expressed both her heartbreak and support. “Natalie is the kind of player every coach dreams of. She’s tough, selfless, and determined,” Williams said in a statement. “While we’ll deeply miss her on the floor, her leadership and presence will continue to be felt every day as she begins this new phase of recovery.”
Potts’ absence poses a major challenge for a Nebraska team that had high expectations entering conference play. Without her, the Huskers will need multiple players to step up and fill both the scoring void and the emotional gap left by her injury.
Still, the team is rallying behind Potts — who despite being sidelined, has vowed to stay active in practices, film sessions, and team support roles. It’s clear she remains a key leader for the program, even off the court.
For now, fans can only hope for a full and speedy recovery for the rising star. And if her past resilience is any indication, Natalie Potts will return better than ever — and ready to finish what she started.
Her message to fans ended with a determined promise: “This is just the beginning of a bigger comeback story.”
