Nebraska volleyball star Harper Murray charged with misdemeanor for shoplifting case

Nebraska volleyball standout Harper Murray has been charged with a misdemeanor after being accused of shoplifting five rings with a value of $12.99 on May 2, per KOLN. Her arraignment is scheduled for June 26 at 1:30 p.m.

In total, Murray was accused of stealing $70 worth of merchandise from Scheels in Lincoln before buying $350 worth of merchandise. In May, Nebraska Athletics addressed the situation in a statement to the Journal Star.

“We are aware of the incident report from Thursday night and are gathering more information,” the statement read. “We had previously made the determination that Harper would be suspended for Saturday’s spring match. Any further discipline will be handled internally. We will have no further comment at this time.”

Murray’s alleged shoplifting isn’t the only trouble she’s faced this offseason. In early April, she received a citation for DUI, and a breathalyzer test showed her blood-alcohol content as .169, according to Lincoln Police—double the legal limit. She also received citations for reckless driving, obstruction of a peace officer, minor in possession and carrying a false ID.

Harper Murray addresses off-court concerns

On May 20, Murray released a statement on social media regarding her off-court issues.

“I deeply regret some of the recent decisions I’ve made, and the pain that I have caused my family, my team, volleyball fans, and everyone who has supported me,” Harper Murray wrote. “I take full responsibility for my actions. This past month has been a great opportunity for me to recenter and refocus on myself and get back to who I am.

“Thank you to everyone who has shown me grace, kindness, and compassion. When the time is right I hope to share my story more and in the process hopefully help others. Again thank you to everyone who has supported and believed in me.”

In her debut campaign with the Cornhuskers in 2023, Murray finished second on the team with 3.23 kills per set and had a .237 hitting percentage. Additionally, Murray averaged 2.07 digs per set and tallied a team-high 36 service aces.

Further, the 6-foot-2 freshman finished the season with the highest kills per set average by a Husker freshman since Kadie Rolfzen (3.46) in 2013.

For her efforts, Murray was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in the 2023 campaign. She was also selected for the All-Big Ten First Team, AVCA All-Region Team and AVCA All-America Third Team.