By Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
A few years ago, Julie Nekolna left her home in the Czech Republic and enrolled at Holtville High School for her senior year of high school. During her senior season in 2023, Nekolna led the Bulldogs’ girls basketball team to 27 wins and the school’s first ever girls’ championship in the Elmore County Basketball Tournament. She averaged 21.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.6 blocks, and 2.6 steals per game and was named Class 5A 1
st
Team All-State.
Nekolna signed with Shelton State out of high school and spent the last two years competing at the junior college level, where she found a lot of success. She was named 2025 NJCAA Division 1 First Team All-American in April after starting all 34 games.
According to the Shelton State website, Nekolna led the ACCC in scoring and field goal percentage during the regular season, and she led Shelton State to the 2025 NJCAA National Championship Game. The runner-up finish is the highest in program history.
As a result of the successful junior college run, Nekolna signed with Texas Tech University. She went on an official visit in April 2025. “I was really impressed by the campus,” said Nekolna. “It’s beautiful and well-organized. Even though the campus is big it is pretty easy to find your way around. I also found the people to be incredibly friendly and welcoming.”
The Lady Red Raiders finished the 2025 season with a record of 19-18, according to
www.espn.com
Julie cited several reasons for choosing Texas Tech.
“I really liked the coaching staff, as I believe they can challenge me and help me grow both as a player and as a person. I also really loved the campus environment and the supportive staff that helps student athletes succeed,” said Nekolna.
The former Holtville star plans to earn a bachelor’s degree at Texas Tech and possibly enter the medical field afterwards. “I’m not sure what the future holds. For now, I want to focus on my studies and personal development, being patient with future opportunities as they come.”
