Volleyball extends home win streak with strong freshmen showings
After setting her career high in kills (20) just 13 days ago, freshman outside hitter Barbara Teakell one-upped herself, putting away 21 kills Friday night.
The Mean Green extended their program-record home winning streak to 10 games with a four-set win against Rice (25-19, 29-31, 25-19, 25-22).
Teakell was found early and often, totaling 47 attacks and finishing with a .340 attack percentage. She also led the team with 18 digs, showing her versatility on the outside pins.
“She’s always had a great variety in her shots. It’s natural for her,” Head coach Andrew Palileo told MeanGreenSports.com. “She’s been consistent at knowing when to try a different shot. I was more impressed with her digs, and that’s what I complimented her on, because we weren’t defending well tonight.”
Fellow freshman outside hitter Valerie Valerian also had a solid showing with 16 kills, 12 digs and one block.
Both freshmen came out of the gate attacking and junior setter Karley York found them with ease, putting up 58 assists in the win.
“I knew we had to go out there and be aggressive,” Valerian told MeanGreenSports.com. “You can’t hesitate in these big games. Starting off, you have to have that go-after-it mindset.”
Senior middle blocker Amanda Chamberlain put away 11 of her 16 attacks with zero errors leading to an eye-popping .688 attack percentage. Her presence alone was vital in opening up the game for the freshmen on the outsides.
Despite falling in the second set 31-29, the Mean Green brushed it off and went about their business, winning once again.
“Neither team played to the best of their abilities,” Palileo tole MeanGreenSports.com. “So it came down to who would sustain runs a little bit longer in each set. [Rice] did a good job of staying in there in that second set.”
The Mean Green had seven aces in the match and pulled out a tough win at home, putting them in sole possession of second place in Conference USA.
Throughout the season, the home court has brought a lot of energy and has been rewarded up to this point. Tonight was no different as the team put on a show once again.
“There was lots of energy,” Teakell told MeanGreenSports.com. “The team brought so much energy and everyone played amazing.”
Featured Image: Senior middle back Holly Milam hits the ball in a game against Rice University. The Mean Green won 3-1 against Rice. Rachel Walters
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