In preparation for their NCAA Volleyball Tournament matchup with Arkansas, the Kentucky volleyball team is facing a mix of good news and bad news. On the positive side, the Cats have already secured two victories against the Hogs during the regular season, giving them familiarity with their opponent’s style of play. However, the bad news is that Arkansas is equally acquainted with Kentucky and will undoubtedly seek revenge when the teams clash on Thursday in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Brooklyn DeLeye, a freshman on the UK team, understands that Arkansas will be coming full force. She acknowledges that beating a team three times in a row is no easy feat, stating, “Obviously, they’re an amazing team. They’re going to be coming for us. It’s honestly hard to beat a team three times in a row.”
Head coach Craig Skinner attests to Arkansas’ strength as a team. He holds immense respect for their coaching staff and appreciates the accomplishments they have achieved this season. Skinner highlights Arkansas’ ability to utilize their prominent attackers, explaining that they are adept at hitting cross court, hitting lines, executing off speed shots, and targeting deep corners. He highly regards Arkansas’ players as having a high IQ and understanding how to score.
When faced with the challenge posed by Arkansas, Skinner emphasizes that the Cats must adapt their strategy accordingly. Depending on the situation, they may have to concede a great shot and focus on side outs, or they may have to employ their serve and blocking defense to create opportunities for transition and scoring.
Skinner firmly believes in the determination and readiness of his team. He expresses his confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion on Thursday, stating, “I have no doubt our team will be fired up to play again. Regardless of who you’re playing the second weekend (of the NCAA Tournament), it’s a great opportunity for us.”
However, the Cats cannot afford to become complacent. While they have triumphed over the Hogs twice this season, those victories hold no significance in the postseason. Skinner stresses that this matchup will be the first time the teams compete in the NCAA Tournament, necessitating a fresh perspective. Both teams have made adjustments and fine-tuning since their last encounter, leading to new strategies that each side must defend against.
According to DeLeye, the SEC Freshman of the Year, the game plan for the Cats should be straightforward. They should stick to their usual playing style without making drastic changes and focus on enjoying the game. As DeLeye explains, “Just playing our game and not really drastically changing our team… Going out and having fun is the biggest thing. You win, you keep advancing. You lose, you’re done.”
The Cats are hopeful that at the end of Thursday’s match – their third meeting against Arkansas this season – the good news will outweigh the bad news.
