A Much-Needed Win to Lift Team Spirits
The CU Buffs volleyball team finally snapped their frustrating six-game losing streak with a decisive win over the Cincinnati Bearcats. The match, held at the CU Events Center on Saturday afternoon, ended with scores of 25-20, 25-18, and 25-21. This victory was particularly significant as it marked only the second meeting between the two programs, the first encounter occurring 18 years ago. Additionally, it ended the Buffs’ longest losing streak since they experienced a seven-game slump in the 2020 season.
Strong Start Following a Bleak Streak
The Buffs faced a challenging start in the opening set, holding a narrow lead at 21-20. However, they showcased impressive resilience by scoring five consecutive points to secure the set. This momentum not only gave them an early advantage but also set the tone for the remainder of the match. Their most remarkable performance came in the third set, where a powerful 10-2 run helped the Buffs claim a convincing victory. This win marked the Buffs’ fourth of the season, bringing their overall record to 11-14 and their Big 12 conference record to 4-9.
Outstanding Performance on the Court
In one of their strongest showings in the Big 12 this season, the Buffs ended the game with an impressive hitting percentage of .306. In stark contrast, the Bearcats struggled offensively, achieving only a .075 hit rate. Leading the Buffs was Ana Burilovic, who delivered an outstanding performance with 14 kills. Not far behind was Lily Dwinell, contributing 10 kills to the team’s success. Additionally, veteran setter Taylor Simpson played a crucial role, providing 33 assists throughout the game, demonstrating her effective ball distribution.
Coach Mahoney’s Recognition for the Team
After the match, CU head coach Jese Mahoney expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. “It’s great to get a win, especially in three sets. You don’t often see that in this conference,” he noted in a post-game statement. Mahoney highlighted the team’s excellent passing and aggressive serving, emphasizing the importance of minimizing errors while maintaining an offensive edge. “I think Taylor Simpson distributed the ball really well, and we generated a lot of production up front. It’s fantastic to get the win.”
Key Players Stepping Up
The game also saw significant contributions from other players, including defensive specialists who played a key role in sustaining rallies. The Buffs’ ability to stay composed under pressure was evident, and their teamwork shone through in critical moments. The cohesion on the court was noticeably improved, and fans are hopeful this performance will serve as a turning point for the season.
A Journey of Proving Themselves Ahead
With this much-needed victory, the Buffs are eager to carry the momentum into their upcoming match against Iowa State on Wednesday. The team aims to build on this achievement and continue their upward trajectory in the competitive Big 12 conference. The players are motivated to prove they can compete with the best and are determined to improve their standings.
The Buffs‘ win over Cincinnati represents more than just a victory; it’s an essential step in regaining confidence and unity as a team. After a challenging stretch, they’ve demonstrated resilience and determination, qualities that will be crucial in the coming weeks. Fans are excited to see how this newfound energy will translate into their upcoming games, with a renewed sense of hope surrounding the program.
As the CU Buffs move forward, they carry with them the lessons learned from past hardships and the excitement of recent success. The road is far from over, but with each game, they are building a foundation for future victories. The Buffs team is ready to tackle the challenges ahead, and their supporters can anticipate an exciting remainder of the season as they strive to make their mark in the Big 12.
