AUSTIN, Texas – The No. 3 Wisconsin volleyball team is heading to the NCAA National Semifinals, marking an impressive seventh trip in the program’s history. The Badgers defeated No. 1 Texas in four sets (25-22, 25-21, 20-25, 25-19) in a thrilling match at Gregory Gymnasium.
From the start, it was a tight contest. Wisconsin set the pace with a quick 4-0 run, going ahead 10-9. With outside hitter Mimi Colyer making key plays, the Badgers led 15-14 at the first timeout. They pulled away with a strong finish, thanks to freshman Kristen Simon’s serving, including an ace. Colyer sealed the first set with a kill, ensuring Wisconsin took it 25-22.
The second set mirrored the first. Wisconsin’s middle blocker Carter Booth helped create a gap with back-to-back kills, stretching the lead to 14-10. Although Texas tried to claw back, Colyer stepped up again, delivering another crucial kill to finish the set 25-21.
Texas found their stride in the third set, launching a 5-0 run that pushed them ahead. Despite outside hitter Una Vajagic’s efforts with five kills, Wisconsin dropped the set 20-25, letting Texas remain in the fight.
In the fourth set, Texas started strong, racing to a 4-0 lead and prompting a Wisconsin timeout. However, the Badgers responded well, scoring six of the next seven points to secure a 7-6 lead, highlighted by an ace from Colyer. Outside hitter Trinity Shadd-Ceres also contributed with some critical kills. Wisconsin kept Texas on their toes, continuing their momentum and finishing off the set 25-19 with kills from Vajagic and Colyer.
Colyer led the charge for Wisconsin with 23 kills and a hitting percentage of .309. Vajagic followed closely with 15 kills and a striking .458 hitting percentage. Booth contributed 11 kills too. The setter, Charlie Fuerbringer, was instrumental, recording 57 assists and playing strong defense with nine digs.
Coach Kelly Sheffield praised the team’s resilience. He noted, “It’s tough to win on the road, especially against a powerhouse like Texas. But our players stood tall.” He expressed pride in the growth and commitment of the team.
Colyer shared her excitement: “Playing alongside this group has been incredible. We brought so much energy and grit out there.” Booth emphasized their focus: “We knew who we are and what we needed to do.”
Interestingly, Wisconsin is now 5-6 in its all-time series against Texas, with their last win in Austin dating back to 2016. This victory boosts Wisconsin’s NCAA tournament record to 74-29.
Looking ahead, Wisconsin will face No. 1 Kentucky in the National Semifinals on December 18. This matchup will be another opportunity for Wisconsin to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent, continuing their impressive tournament run.
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