Badgers Triumph Over Stanford in Epic Volleyball Match
In a thrilling matchup, the No. 3 seeded Wisconsin volleyball team defeated No. 2 Stanford with scores of 25-17, 21-25, 25-23, and 25-22. The Badgers showcased their offensive prowess, hitting an impressive .420 overall.
Wisconsin started strong, recording a .514 hitting percentage in the first set. Thanks to a standout performance by libero Kristen Simon, who had a 5-0 serving run, the Badgers quickly surged ahead. Despite Stanford’s efforts, led by outside hitter Mimi Colyer, Wisconsin took the first set.
Stanford came back in the second set. They managed a few crucial 3-0 runs, leveling the match with a 25-21 victory. The competition was fierce, with both teams exchanging points and showcasing their skills.
The third set was pivotal. Stanford had a slight lead until freshman Natalie Wardlow stepped up, serving three consecutive aces. This gave Wisconsin an 18-17 edge, which they maintained to win the set 25-23.
Come the fourth set, Wisconsin charged ahead again, led by Una Vajagic. The Badgers went up 10-6, and Colyer achieved a significant milestone—her 2,000th career kill. In the end, Wisconsin finished strong, taking the match and advancing to the Regional Finals.
Coach Kelly Sheffield noted the intense competition, comparing the level of play to a Final Four matchup. He highlighted Wardlow’s serving ability as a game-changer, showcasing the importance of every player’s contributions to the team’s success.
The match also set a record for Wisconsin: it was their first victory ever against Stanford. Historically, the Badgers have been strong competitors in the NCAA tournament, with a record of 73 wins and 29 losses.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin will face No. 1 Texas in the Regional Final, vying for a trip to the NCAA Championship—a match to mark on your calendar!
Key Takeaways:
- Wisconsin’s hitting percentage of .420 is a remarkable achievement and highlights their offensive skills.
- Natalie Wardlow’s service streak was critical in the third set.
- Mimi Colyer and Carter Booth had standout performances, each contributing significantly to the team’s success.
- Wisconsin continues its impressive tournament history, marking a significant milestone against Stanford.
As sports continue to evolve, performances like this reflect the growing competitiveness in collegiate volleyball. With the Badgers advancing further in the tournament, fans can look forward to even more exciting matches ahead!
