The top-ranked Wisconsin Badgers volleyball team clashed with the No. 24 Tennessee team in what was almost an upset by the Vols. The home opener brought exactly what you’d hope for, an exciting match that lasted 2 hours and 45 minutes, going the full five-sets with the Badgers coming out on top. The final score, 25-16, 25-23, 18-25, 20-25, 15-13, offers a glimpse into the back and forth match.
Whew! What. A. Match. pic.twitter.com/HYfC3PLiXg
— Wisconsin Volleyball (@BadgerVB) September 3, 2023
A Fast Start for Badgers Volleyball
Wisconsin began the afternoon with what looked like might be a repeat performance of their sweep of the Razorbacks. With Julia Orzol’s 5-0 serving run, they gained an early lead of 6-3 and never looked back. Hammill, who orchestrated a six-straight serve sequence, extended the lead to a commanding 12-4. Sarah Franklin’s five kills during the runs solidified their grip on the set. Despite the Vols continued attempts to battle back, the Wisconsin Badgers held firm, sealing the first set at 25-16. The set concluded with 18 kills from Wisconsin, setting the tone for the game.
A Battle of Determination
The second set brought out the Badgers’ tenacity, showcasing just why they are No. 1. Claiming a 25-23 victory, they powered through to secure a 2-0 lead in the match. However, Tennessee rallied back, capturing the third and fourth sets, marking what could end up in an upset of the top-ranked Badgers volleyball team.
The Badgers Down the Vols
The fifth set was an intense tug-of-war, each point carrying weight and significance. A blistering start saw Wisconsin claiming a 6-1 lead, fueled by Carter Booth’s stellar performance, marked by two blocks and a kill. Tennessee, refusing to yield, fought back to take the lead 12-11.
Julia Orzol’s service ace at 12-all tilted the scales in Wisconsin Badgers’ favor, bringing them to a 13-12 lead. The The Badgers ended the match outscoring the Vols 4-1 along the way. Vols defense held off one match point, prolonging the battle. But it was Sarah Franklin’s triumphant kill on the outside that sealed the victory
It was an electric day at the Field House ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/HBhc4SD9Zp
— Wisconsin Volleyball (@BadgerVB) September 3, 2023
Badgers on Display
Franklin emerged as the key to the Badgers volleyball offense, notching an impressive 23 kills. Devyn Robinson followed suit with 15 kills, while Carter Booth contributed eight. Anna Smrek and Temi Thomas-Ailara added seven kills each. Wisconsin’s attacking prowess was mirrored in their .306 hitting percentage (62 kills – 16 errors – 147 attempts). Head Coach Kelly Sheffield acknowledged the team’s growth: “You’re certainly happy with the win against a really good team and there are certainly things for us to learn and continue to grow moving forward.” The strategic prowess and resilience displayed by the Badgers reverberated through the game.
Noteworthy Achievements by Badgers Volleyball
Unfortunately, Izzy Ashburn was unable to collect an ace in her march to history atop the Badgers all-time leaderboards. However, there were still a couple of noteworthy achievements for the team.
Sarah Franklin added another match with double-digit kills. This brings her streak to eight total matches with double-digit kills that dates back to the previous season.
- Julia Orzol has been a consistent defensive stalwart for the Badgers with 10-plus digs in all five matches this season.
The Badgers volleyball team will host Arizona and Miami on Friday night, both of whom were unranked at the most recent AVCA Coach’s Polls. This marks an end to the run of ranked opponents for the Badgers.
