Volleyball looks to extend winning streak
WSU looking for a strong performance to propel themselves into top 25
WSU outside hitter Laura Jansen runs onto the court during her introduction before an NCAA women’s volleyball match against California Baptist, Sept. 1, at Bohler Gymnasium.
September 8, 2022
WSU volleyball (5-1) looks to continue its three-game win streak this weekend as they travel to Fairfield, Connecticut to compete in the Fairfield Invitational.
Following their performances of the first two weekends, WSU is getting recognition as one of the better teams in the NCAA, however, they have not been able to sneak into the top 25 rankings. Going into the tournament, they are ranked as the No. 34 team in the nation.
The Cougs are the favorites to win all three matches this weekend. They begin with a matchup against Howard (2-3) at 8 a.m. on Friday. The Cougs have played Howard one time in program history, winning 3-1 (25-22, 18-25, 25-16, 25-21) on Aug. 28, 2017.
Later that evening, WSU will compete against tournament host Fairfield (4-2) at 5 p.m. These two schools have only matched up twice before, with WSU holding a 2-0 series lead. Both matches were played in September 2017, with WSU winning both games in 3-0 sweeps.
In their last matchup of the weekend, the Cougs will take on Fairleigh Dickinson (2-4) at 10 a.m. This will be the first-ever matchup between the two teams, with WSU being the heavy favorite to take the series easily.
So far the Cougs have impressed with a strong attack style and gameplan. Their play has led to a Pac-12 leading .331 hit percentage that ranks third overall in the nation. If they are able to maintain their game plan and stay healthy, they should be easily able to sweep the weekend dropping no more than two or three sets.
Players to look out for:
Pia Timmer – WSU’s predicted best player going into the season has played well but has been overshadowed by the play of her teammates. Look for her to have a strong showing and fully showcase what we can expect the rest of the season.
Karly Basham – Libero and defensive specialist who has started the season strong with several service aces. She acts as the glue and hype woman of the team. Look for her to keep the team in the game if there are to be any struggles.
Laura Jansen – Graduate transfer from Arkansas-Little Rock who won MVP last weekend of the Cougar Challenge after leading the team in kills in all three matches. With more focus on footwork leading to the net, she should continue her dominating start to the season.
