Annual Spirit Awards Handed Out at Girls Basketball Tournaments

The Spirit of Su and Spirit of Six awards recognize sportsmanship and community spirit.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 5:52pm

The annual Spirit of Su and Spirit of Six awards were presented during halftime of the Girls Class AA, A, and B State Basketball Tournaments on Saturday. These awards recognize outstanding sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive team spirit among the participating high school basketball teams.

Why it matters

The Spirit awards highlight the values of teamwork, character, and community that are central to high school sports. By recognizing these qualities, the tournaments aim to promote a positive culture around girls' basketball in the state.

The details

The Spirit of Su award is given to the team that best exemplifies the spirit, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship of the late Susan Sunderman, a longtime supporter of girls' basketball in Nebraska. The Spirit of Six award goes to the team that best represents the values of the Girls State Basketball Tournament, including community service, fan support, and positive team dynamics.

  • The awards were presented on Saturday, March 15, 2026 during the halftime of the Girls Class AA, A, and B State Basketball Tournaments.

The players

Susan Sunderman

A longtime supporter of girls' basketball in Nebraska, the Spirit of Su award is named in her honor.

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The takeaway

The Spirit awards recognize that high school sports are about more than just winning games. They celebrate the positive values and community spirit that girls' basketball fosters across Nebraska.