Arizona volleyball hit the road last weekend and traveled to San Diego, California, to participate in the SDSU/USD Invitational. The Wildcats squared off against No. 2 Nebraska, West Virginia, and San Diego State University on Friday and Saturday.
Friday:
The start of the SDSU/USD Invitational did not go as well as expected for the Arizona Wildcats, as they fell short to (No. 2) Nebraska in a four-set match (25-17, 25-14, 17-25, 25-17).
Although the Wildcats failed to upset last year’s runner up for the national championship, there were many bright spots from Friday’s match. First off, the team proved that they will not be discouraged when down two sets to a juggernaut of a program like Nebraska.
Also, Devyn Cross played extremely well in her first game back from injury, recording 6 kills and 3 blocks (team high). As for career milestones, Julia Patterson, who showcased a variety of skills in the losing effort, has now totaled over 2,500 assists in her college career.
Lastly, Paige Whipple continued her strong start to the season, recording 13 kills (team high), 6 digs, 2 assists and an ace.
RELATED: Arizona Volleyball wins two out of three in Cactus Classic
Saturday:
On Saturday, Arizona volleyball played their second game of the invitational against West Virginia and won 3-1. Arizona lost the first set 32-30 but then turned it on from there.
The Wildcats went on to win the next three sets in a row 25-14, 25-12 and 25-19. Whipple went on to lead the Wildcats in kills again with 19.
The second game of the doubleheader had Arizona play against San Diego State. Arizona swept with a score of 3-0. Some outstanding players of the game were Paige Whipple with 13 kills, Katie Smoot with 12 kills and Shardonee Hayes added 9 herself. Arizona had 30 digs and SDSU had 23.
What’s Next:
Arizona’s next game will be held on Sept. 13 in Lawrence, Kan. as the Wildcats travel to play in the Kansas Invitational.
Follow Dan Philipsborn and Clarissa Edwards on Twitter.
