Kathryn Plummer, a key player for Stanford University, showcased her incredible skill and determination in leading her team to a resounding victory in the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Championship match. Taking place in Pittsburgh, Stanford defeated the University of Wisconsin with a score of 25-16, 25-17, 25-20.
Plummer, who previously represented the U.S. Women’s National Team, delivered an outstanding performance with 22 kills and an impressive .459 hitting efficiency. Alongside her kills, she also contributed with an ace, 10 digs, and three block assists. Plummer’s dominance was evident from the very start of the match, as she scored seven kills in the opening set without any errors, setting the tone for her team’s success.
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Stanford’s success was not solely attributed to Plummer’s exceptional play. The team’s graduate senior, Madeleine Gates, recorded 10 kills with a .529 hitting efficiency, while junior Meghan McClure contributed seven kills and 13 digs. Setter Jenna Gray played a crucial role, amassing 37 assists and guiding Stanford to an impressive .358 hitting efficiency. Senior libero Morgan Hentz showcased her defensive prowess with 17 digs, flawlessly receiving each hit. Senior Audriana Fitzmorris also made significant contributions with eight kills and three block assists. Additionally, Holly Campbell displayed her blocking skills with a team-leading five block assists.
Stanford’s defense proved to be a formidable force, limiting the potent Wisconsin offense to a .152 hitting efficiency. Stanford also maintained a 7-3 advantage in blocks throughout the match. Prior to the championship match, Wisconsin had won 15 out of 16 sets in the 2019 NCAA Tournament.
With this victory, Stanford, seeded third in the tournament, concluded the season with an impressive 30-4 record. The University of Wisconsin, seeded fourth, finished their season with a record of 27-7.
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In terms of individual performances, Wisconsin’s Molly Haggerty led her team with 10 kills, one ace, and a block assist. Dana Rettke, a junior for Wisconsin, contributed seven kills and a block assist. Danielle Hart recorded six kills without any errors and added two block assists. Grace Loberg chipped in with five kills. Sydney Hilley, the team’s setter, contributed with 25 assists and 11 digs, while Tiffany Clark provided strong defensive play with 10 digs.
Stanford has consistently excelled in women’s volleyball, with this year marking their second consecutive appearance in the finals and their third in the last four years. The combined efforts of Plummer, Gray, Hentz, Fitzmorris, and Caitlin Keefe have resulted in three NCAA titles, a historic achievement at Stanford.
In contrast, Wisconsin reached their third NCAA championship match but unfortunately fell short in each instance.
For Plummer, this victory serves as an exceptional finale to her collegiate career. Although she was unable to compete in certain matches due to an undisclosed injury, her previous accolades, including winning the AVCA Division I Player of the Year in 2017 and 2018, strongly position her for a successful professional volleyball journey.
Stanford’s roster is filled with talented players who have progressed through the USA Volleyball High-Performance pipeline, further solidifying the team’s strength. Both Hentz and Plummer earned silver medals at the 2015 FIVB Girls’ U18 World Championship, with Wisconsin’s Hilley and Clark also on the same team. Fitzmorris has represented Team USA in various age-group teams or the U.S. Collegiate National Team each year between 2012 and 2019, achieving a silver medal finish at the 2013 FIVB Girls U18 World Championship.
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Furthermore, Stanford’s coaching staff boasts extensive national team experience, further enhancing their ability to guide the team to success. Head Coach Kevin Hambley served as an assistant coach for the U.S. Women’s National Team from 2001-2004, and Assistant Coach Alisha Glass Childress was the starting setter for Team USA, winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Associate Head Coach Denise Corlett represented the U.S. Women’s National Team in 1982 and 1983 after competing in the 1979 World University Games.
The success of Stanford and Wisconsin in the NCAA Championship match is a testament to their commitment to excellence and the development of talented players. Both programs have contributed significantly to the sport of women’s volleyball and will undoubtedly continue to make an impact in the future.
FAQs
Q: How many kills did Kathryn Plummer have in the match?
A: Kathryn Plummer recorded an impressive 22 kills in the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Championship match.
Q: Who led the defensive efforts for Stanford?
A: Stanford’s senior libero, Morgan Hentz, showcased exceptional defensive skills with 17 digs and flawless reception throughout the match.
Q: How many NCAA titles has Stanford won?
A: Stanford has secured an impressive nine NCAA titles, making them the most successful program in women’s volleyball.
Summary
In the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Championship match, Kathryn Plummer led Stanford University to a resounding victory with her exceptional performance. Plummer’s 22 kills and dominant presence on the court were integral to Stanford’s success. The team’s solid defense, led by libero Morgan Hentz, limited the opposition’s offensive efficiency and contributed significantly to the win. With this triumph, Stanford solidified its legacy as one of the most successful programs in women’s volleyball history, having won nine NCAA titles. The match showcased the talent and dedication of both Stanford and Wisconsin, highlighting their contributions to the sport.
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