Wildcats Seek Redemption Against Reigning National Champions

After sweeping Lipscomb in their season opener 3-0 and falling to No. 1 Nebraska in a heartbreaking five-set loss this past weekend, Kentucky volleyball is ready to make a comeback against the reigning national champions.

The Wildats started strong against the Cornhuskers, taking a 2-0 lead early on. However, a surprising turnaround sweep resulted in a 3-2 victory for Nebraska. Despite the devastating loss, Kentucky still managed to jump from No. 7 to No. 4 in the latest AVCA poll, earning respect from the national media.

Multiple Cats showed out in their match against Nebraska. Brooklyn DeLeye, senior outside hitter, ended the match with 23 kills, the most of anyone on the court. Eva Hudson, a transfer from Purdue, had 19 kills of her own, also adding two solo blocks. Sophomore setter Ava Safara earned herself 43 assists, six blocks, and two aces in her second career start of the weekend double-header. Even in defeat, Safara had an incredible debut start, and Kentucky will need her to continue her hot streak this weekend if they hope to compete with the No. 5 team in the country.

Kentucky looks ahead to another double-header this weekend, where they will first face No. 5 Penn State on Friday at 8:00 P.M. ET (FOX) in State College, Pennsylvania, charging right back into the fire. The experienced 2024 National Champions will challenge the Cats in every aspect of the game. The Nittany Lions return several key players; however, the biggest test will be against Izzy Starch, their star setter.

Penn State has an offensive machine in Starch, who was named the 2024 AVCA National Freshman of the Year and earned First Team All-Big Ten honors. She is incredibly efficient in creating opportunities and putting the ball in the perfect spot for her hitters. In addition, middle blocker Mia Jones controls the front line with powerful blocks, while outside hitter Leah Fisher contributes powerful attacks. Putting up a defense against this talented core group is necessary if the Wildcats want to pull off the upset on their home court.

With a quick turnaround, Kentucky will take on New Hampshire on Saturday at 2:00 P.M. ET (BTN+) in State College, Pennsylvania. Competing in the America East Conference, New Hampshire will put up a solid fight, but Kentucky’s talent and skill level are expected to heavily influence the match in their favor. Looking to make a comeback, a win would provide Kentucky with even more momentum and confidence less than a day after their spotlight matchup.

This meeting between the Wildcats and Nittany Lions will require another standout game from Kentucky’s top performers. DeLeye and Hudson will need to continue their scoring domination while also remaining as vocal leaders for their teammates. In addition, another stellar weekend from Safara at setter will be crucial for the Cats to pull out a win, especially after Penn State pulled off a five-set comeback victory in their last matchup.

After putting up a good fight to Nebraska, a win against Penn State could show the nation that Kentucky belongs in the conversation among the elite programs. It could also help set the tone for the remainder of the 2025 season.

The Wildcats have the drive, the talent, and the momentum to put on a show this weekend against one of the country’s top contenders. With a win, the Wildcats could cement themselves among those in conversation for the 2025 National Title. Sending a clear message that they aren’t a team to be counted out.