Kentucky will advance to the semi-finals of the NCAA volleyball tournament, thanks in part to the quick thinking of hitter Megan Wilson. In the team’s quarter-final match on Thursday evening against Missouri, the senior used her head to save a critical rally, which ultimately helped the squad advance.
The score was within one point when Kentucky sent the ball barely over the net. Missouri senior Morgan Isenberg responded quickly, spiking the ball back to Kentucky. The squad scrambled to follow Isenberg’s hit without expecting such a fast return. Turning her head at just the right moment, Wilson, the six foot four senior, diverted the hit with the top of her head, saving the rally and sending the ball back to Missouri.
Not only did Kentucky win the impressive rally, but they also eked out a three-to-one match victory, sending them on to compete in the semi-finals. Wilson scored thirteen points in the match, the second-highest scorer on the squad after Brooklyn Deleye. Strong on defense, Wilson also picked up one dig and secured three serves.
Kentucky will face off against Pittsburgh on December 14 at 5 pm EST. The match should be close, as both teams are undefeated. Kentucky has a 20-7-0 record, while Pittsburg comes in a little stronger with 29-1-0. However, Pittsburg struggled more in their semi-final match against Oregon, barely scraping by in a 3-2 victory. With 12 digs and 32.5 points in the last game, Olivia Babcock will be the player to watch on Pittsburgh’s side.
