Volleyball Team Finalizes Sweet 16 Preparations with Media Engagement
The Creighton Volleyball team is gearing up for the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, set to take place in Lexington, Kentucky. The Bluejays are scheduled to face Arizona State in an exciting matchup at Memorial Coliseum this Saturday.
Creighton Volleyball Team Prepares for Sweet 16
Head coach Brian Rosen, alongside standout players Kiara Reinhardt, Ava Martin, and Annalea Maeder, addressed the media before their 90-minute practice at Memorial Coliseum. The match against Arizona State will kick off at 12 p.m. Central Time and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2.
Coach Brian Rosen’s Insights
- Rosen expressed gratitude for reaching the Sweet 16, acknowledging the team’s long-term goals.
- He highlighted the significance of Reinhardt’s achievement as the winningest player in the program’s history.
- The Bluejays and Arizona State share similar records, which adds layers to the upcoming clash.
“We’ve led the nation in blocks during early tournament rounds,” Rosen noted, emphasizing that the match will hinge on maintaining offensive consistency against strong defenses.
Key Players and Statistics
Ava Martin and Annalea Maeder contributed their thoughts on the team’s success and the importance of respecting all opponents. Both players have stated they have not lost a match since September, preparing them well for this high-stakes encounter.
- Kiara Reinhardt is noted for her leadership and consistency, setting a record for NCAA tournament appearances.
- Martin emphasized a one-game-at-a-time mindset, critical due to numerous upsets in college volleyball this season.
- Maeder acknowledged the team’s ability to fight back after losing sets, showcasing their resilience.
Arizona State’s Approach
Arizona State’s head coach, JJ Van Niel, expressed optimism regarding his team’s performance this year. He noted their focus on blocking and depth, which have been key areas of development.
- Van Niel pointed out that competing in the Big 12 has prepared his team well for the tournament.
- The Sun Devils plan to maintain a balanced strategy to counter Creighton’s effective play.
- Freshman Grace Martin, competing against her sister Ava, adds an emotional layer to the matchup.
Anticipation Builds for the Match
As both teams finalize preparations, excitement builds for this pivotal matchup in Lexington. The combination of seasoned players and strategic insights sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable contest in the NCAA Tournament.
