Omaha Women's Basketball Players Rescue Driver from Sinkhole

Two University of Nebraska-Omaha teammates sprang into action when a sudden road collapse trapped a driver in a deep hole.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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On their way back from basketball practice, Olivia Borsutzki and Esra Kurban witnessed a sinkhole open up in the middle of an intersection, trapping a driver inside. Without hesitation, the two teammates rushed to the edge of the hole and, with the help of a bystander, were able to pull the trapped driver to safety before emergency responders arrived.

Why it matters

The quick thinking and bravery of the two student-athletes highlights the importance of being willing to step up and help in emergency situations, even when others around may be hesitant to act. Their actions also underscore the potential dangers of sudden infrastructure failures that can put public safety at risk.

The details

Borsutzki and Kurban were stopped at a red light when they noticed a driver had exited their vehicle in the middle of the intersection. Upon closer inspection, they realized a sinkhole had opened up, swallowing two cars. While bystanders stood by and filmed the incident on their phones, the two basketball players sprang into action, rushing to the edge of the hole to pull the trapped driver to safety.

  • The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon as the two players were driving back from basketball practice.
  • The sinkhole opened up suddenly in the middle of the intersection.

The players

Olivia Borsutzki

A University of Nebraska-Omaha women's basketball player who was driving the car when the sinkhole opened up and took the lead in rescuing the trapped driver.

Esra Kurban

Borsutzki's teammate on the University of Nebraska-Omaha women's basketball team who also rushed to help rescue the trapped driver.

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What they’re saying

“I wasn't really thinking. I just knew I needed to help.”

— Olivia Borsutzki, University of Nebraska-Omaha Women's Basketball Player (on3.com)

“I didn't even know sinkholes existed. I was thinking, is it going to fall more?”

— Esra Kurban, University of Nebraska-Omaha Women's Basketball Player (on3.com)

What’s next

The two players plan to continue focusing on their basketball season, but say the experience has made them more aware of the importance of being prepared to respond in emergency situations.

The takeaway

The quick actions of these two student-athletes to rescue a trapped driver highlight the value of being willing to step up and help in a crisis, even when others may be hesitant to act. Their bravery and presence of mind in a dangerous situation is an inspiring example of the positive impact young people can have in their communities.