This weekend, the Villanova Wildcats volleyball team (11-6, 4-2 BIG EAST) will be traveling to New England for two crucial BIG EAST matchups. The Wildcats will first face the Connecticut Huskies on Friday afternoon, followed by a matchup against Providence on Saturday. These games are essential for Villanova as they look to strengthen their position in the conference standings.
Freshmen Shining in 2024 Season
The 2024 season has seen the impressive contributions of Villanova’s freshman class. Five of the six freshmen have made an immediate impact on the court, with four regularly starting. These newcomers have bolstered both offense and defense, with standout performances from players like Campbell McKinnon and Cat Young. McKinnon has accumulated 145 kills and 52 blocks, while Young has produced 140 points. Alyssa Nelson has been another key player, leading the team in assists (328) and digs (134), while ranking second in aces (16), all despite playing just three rotations. Additionally, libero Lola Buck-Taylor has made a strong defensive presence with 74 digs, and Taylor Lewis has contributed 40 kills in her role as an opposite hitter.
Villanova’s Offensive Efficiency
Offensive strength has been a defining characteristic of Villanova’s play this season. The team ranks second in the BIG EAST for both kills and assists, and third in hitting percentage. The setters have a wide variety of attacking options, with four players surpassing 100 kills and seven players tallying over 40 kills. Veteran players have been a solid force for the team as well, with Abby Harrell leading with 191 kills. Other key contributors include Tara Garvey with 110 kills, along with Riley Homer and Ozzie Ozonoh, who each have 68 kills, providing valuable experience and consistency in the attack.
Villanova Wildcats Volleyball Team (image via Getty)Scouting UConn
The Connecticut Huskies, boasting a strong 16-2 record, have only been defeated by nationally ranked teams Creighton and Marquette. UConn leads the BIG EAST in service aces and ranks second in both hitting percentage and opponent hitting percentage. Emma Werkmeister has been a standout performer for the Huskies, recording 224 kills and leading the conference with 40 aces. Senior setter Doga Kutlu ranks in the top five for assists and aces, while freshman libero McKenna Brand has been solid defensively, ranking third in digs per set (3.74) during conference play.
Previewing Providence
Providence has faced difficulties in BIG EAST play this season, holding a 7-10 general record and a 0-6 mark in the conference. Despite their struggles, the Friars managed to sweep the Friar Volleyball Classic and secure wins against teams like Evansville, Brown, and Quinnipiac. Key players for Providence include Miller McDonald, who ranks eighth in assists per set, and Kayla Grant, who leads the team with 61 blocks and holds the fourth-highest hitting percentage in the league. Senior hitter Shaliyah Rhoden has also been a major contributor with 187 kills.
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