Attention all volleyball fans, the Memphis Tigers are setting up to hopefully bounce back from recent losses as they host the UAB Blazers this Wednesday. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. tip-off at Elma Roane Fieldhouse and will be broadcast on ESPN+, according to Memphis Tigers' official athletic site. This match comes on the heels of the Tigers suffering defeats against both Florida Atlantic and Temple, leaving them eager to turn around a 1-9 record in the American conference.
Standouts for the Tigers include Zaniah Hoskins who led with 26 kills and 29 points across the past two matches, as well as junior Janyah Henderson who put up 10 blocks and 22.5 points. The setting duties were split between Maddy Bach and Sydney Marshall, who is reported to have set a career high of 38 assists against FAU. Defensive contributions were notable too, with Abigail Schlueter and Brianna Washington combining for 25 digs and six blocks respectively; there’s no denying these players are aiming to seriously step up their game come Wednesday night.
Scouting reports on the Blazers aren't yielding much brighter stats, with the team also struggling at a 1-9 record. Despite this, player Jorda Crook stands out, having accumulated 30 kills and 35 points last weekend. With 277 kills this season, Crook leads her team, demonstrating talent that the Memphis defense will have to contain. UAB's setting roles were handled by Annastiina Tarkkanen and Izabella Carter, both managing to post over 20 assists in their last matches. Delaney Bowser, a defensive asset for the Blazers, will be someone to watch as well after collecting 25 digs recently.
When considering the matchup history, it goes back quite a ways with Wednesday marking their 60th meeting. Memphis holds the reins with a strong lead in their past encounters, despite a recent win for UAB in Birmingham. Nonetheless, the Tigers have won the last five matchups overall, including the last three held in Memphis. For fans looking to catch the action live, tickets are still available, and they can be purchased through a link provided by the Tigers' site. Additionally, there's a sweet deal where kids aged 18 and under can get free general admission for the entire season. It seems like Memphis is aiming to not just win, but to also foster a love for the sport among the younger generation.
