The U.S. Women’s National Team has wrapped up the preliminary round of the FIVB Volleyball Nations League with an impressive 13-2 record, securing the top spot in the standings. Over the course of five challenging weeks, the team competed in five different countries across three continents.
Now, Team USA is gearing up for the next level of competition as they prepare to participate in the Volleyball Nations League Final Six, taking place from June 27 to July 1 in Nanjing, China. This prestigious event features the top five teams from the preliminary round, along with the host country, China, competing in two pools of three teams.
Bạn đang xem: U.S. Women’s Volleyball Team Heads to VNL Final Six
The Americans, seeded second, will face off against sixth-seeded Turkey on June 27 at 3 a.m. ET, followed by a match against third-seeded Serbia on June 29 at 3 a.m. ET. Notably, Turkey and Serbia are the only teams that managed to defeat the U.S. Women’s National Team during the preliminary round.
Xem thêm : Peak Produce for Peak Performance: What’s in Season
Speaking about the upcoming matches, Head Coach Karch Kiraly expressed excitement at the opportunity to play against the two teams that handed them their only losses. He also acknowledged the weaknesses that were exposed in those matches, particularly in serve-receive and defending out-of-system players. Kiraly is confident that the team has learned from those experiences and is looking forward to showcasing their improvements in the Final Six.
In the other pool, top-seeded China, as the host country, will face off against fourth-seeded Brazil and fifth-seeded Netherlands. The VNL semifinals are scheduled for June 30, with the pool winners from each pool facing the second-place teams from the opposing pool. The medal round matches will be held on July 1.
As the U.S. Women’s National Team heads into the Final Six, they will make one change to their roster. Outside hitter Madi Kingdon Rishel will replace Sarah Wilhite, bringing her skills and experience to the team’s arsenal.
Throughout the preliminary round, Head Coach Karch Kiraly made use of different starting lineups in 12 out of the 15 matches. This versatility speaks to the depth of talent on the team and their ability to compete at a high level regardless of the lineup on the court.
Xem thêm : Exciting News: Larson Inducted into Hall of Fame, European Champions League Resumes
Kiraly also highlighted the crucial role of libero Kelsey Robinson, who switched positions during the competition and embraced her new role with dedication. Her contributions in serve-reception and defense have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Key players who have made a significant impact during the preliminary round include Michelle Bartsch-Hackley, who led the team in scoring with 192 points, and Kelsey Robinson, who excelled in digging and receiving. Carli Lloyd showcased her setting skills, while Jordan Larson and Kim Hill contributed with their offensive prowess. Rachael Adams and Lauren Gibbemeyer demonstrated their blocking abilities, and Kelly Murphy and Annie Drews provided a strong presence as opposites.
With a consistently strong roster and the depth of talent available, the U.S. Women’s National Team is eager to take on the challenges of the Final Six. Their improved performance throughout the preliminary round has given them confidence and momentum as they pursue success in the Volleyball Nations League.
FAQs
Q1: How did the U.S. Women’s National Team fare in the preliminary round of the Volleyball Nations League?
A1: The U.S. Women’s National Team finished atop the standings in the preliminary round of the Volleyball Nations League with an impressive 13-2 record.
Q2: Which teams will the U.S. Women’s National Team face in the Final Six?
A2: The U.S. Women’s National Team, seeded second, will face sixth-seeded Turkey and third-seeded Serbia in the Final Six.
Q3: What lessons did the team learn from their losses to Turkey and Serbia in the preliminary round?
A3: The losses to Turkey and Serbia exposed weaknesses in the team’s serve-receive and defense against out-of-system players. These areas have been identified as areas for improvement.
Summary
The U.S. Women’s National Team has emerged as the top team in the preliminary round of the Volleyball Nations League, securing their place in the Final Six. With a record of 13-2, the team has showcased their talent and determination as they competed in different countries and continents. As they head to the Final Six in China, the team is excited for the opportunity to face off against the teams that previously defeated them. Head Coach Karch Kiraly is confident in the team’s ability to learn from their weaknesses and make improvements. With a strong and versatile roster, the U.S. Women’s National Team is ready to take on the challenges and strive for success in the Volleyball Nations League.
Nguồn: https://www.alpinetgheep.com
Danh mục: Volleyball
