Kentucky volleyball looked dominant in their match against SEC rival Missouri in the round of 16. They were able to win 2-1 and only really let that one set get away from them in their push for a national championship.
It is tough to beat any team three times in any sport, and volleyball is no exception. It seemed like Kentucky knew that and came ready to push and let the match go their way. They were aggressive and feisty, with an impressive amount of kills and aces.
ELITE. 😤@KentuckyVB powers past Missouri, 3-1, to advance to the Pittsburgh Regional Final!@NCAAVolleyball x #ItJustMeansMore pic.twitter.com/FIDS4FtSun
— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) December 12, 2024
The Wildcats had an impressive 59 kills to Missouri's 48. It was Brooklyn Deleye who would lead the way for Kentucky with 22 kills, 3 aces, and 2 blocks. She was impressive, and Kentucky turned to her a lot with the sets in order to get the kill. Missouri was able to stay in each set because of the skill of Jordan Iliff, who had 20 kills. Kentucky didn't seem to have a great answer for her. Maya Sands for the Tigers led the way with digs for both teams totaling 13.
After the game, she said that they had to stay focused and work together to get the win. As for what's next, "We just have to clean up the little things, but we are ready [for the Elite Eight]." The Wildcats get the privilege of watching the two teams they could face in the next round later today.
.@KentuckyVB is making their 5th Elite Eight appearance of the NCAA Tournament in program history (1983, 1987, 2017, 2020, 2024)
— Corey Price (@coreyp08) December 12, 2024
They head into the Elite Eight to take on the winner of Oregon and Pitt later today. Pitt is the home site for the regional games and will play the host if they are to advance. Even if Oregon beats them, it'll still be on the Pitt court on Saturday, December 14th, at 5 pm EST on ESPN2 or ESPN+. You can follow this link to watch on your browser.