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Kentucky volleyball hosts first two rounds of NCAA tournament, streaming details, opponents, and more inside

ByDrew Holbrook|
Kentucky volleyball and Nebraska volleyball fans cheered on their team during the AVCA First Serve Showcase at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Ky. on Aug. 27, 2024
Kentucky volleyball and Nebraska volleyball fans cheered on their team during the AVCA First Serve Showcase at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Ky. on Aug. 27, 2024 | Sam Upshaw Jr./Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Kentucky Wildcats volleyball team is set to take center stage at Historic Memorial Coliseum in Lexington as they host the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats, who earned a No. 3 seed in the national bracket, are primed for a thrilling postseason run starting Thursday, December 5th.

The action kicks off with a highly anticipated matchup against Cleveland State (23-9). Scheduled for 7:30 PM EST, the game will be broadcast, collective sigh, on ESPN+. Kentucky, led by its dynamic roster and seasoned coaching staff, will look to capitalize on the home-court advantage and the electrifying atmosphere at Memorial Coliseum to get back to the Sweet 16.

Earlier in the day, the Lexington pod will feature another exciting contest between No. 6 seed Minnesota and Western Kentucky. That game is slated for 4:30 PM EST, also streaming live on ESPN+. With both teams bringing strong credentials into the tournament, fans can expect a fiercely competitive showdown during both games Thursday.

The winners of these first-round matchups will advance to face each other in the second round on Saturday, December 7, with a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line. That high-stakes match will also take place at 7:30 PM EST, exclusively on ESPN+.

Kentucky’s hosting rights underscore the program’s consistent excellence and strong national standing. The Wildcats have been dominant throughout the season, showcasing their skill, depth, and resilience. Coach Craig Skinner helped lead the Cats to their 8th straight SEC title, and a national tile back in 2020 and continued the streak of 20 straight tournament appearances.

For the Wildcats, playing at Memorial Coliseum—a venue steeped in tradition—offers a unique edge. The historic arena has witnessed countless memorable moments, and this week’s matches promise to add another thrilling chapter to its legacy if the Cats can help it.

Fans are encouraged to pack the coliseum and show their support for Kentucky volleyball as they aim to make a deep tournament run again. With a formidable field of opponents in the Lexington pod, nothing is guaranteed so show up and be loud.

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