Hailey
The Western Kentucky University (WKU) Hilltoppers Volleyball team added another victory to their record after defeating Missouri State in a thrilling four-set match on Friday night.
With strong teamwork, sharp attacks, and impressive defense, WKU once again showed why they are one of the top teams in Conference USA (CUSA).
A Strong Team Effort
The Hilltoppers improved to 12-4 overall and 3-0 in CUSA play after their win, while Missouri State dropped to 5-9 overall and 0-3 in conference matches.
WKU recorded a .319 hitting percentage and outblocked the Bears 12 to 9. This victory also gives WKU a 3-1 all-time record against Missouri State.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the match:
| Category | WKU Hilltoppers | Missouri State Bears |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 12-4 | 5-9 |
| CUSA Record | 3-0 | 0-3 |
| Hitting Percentage | .319 | .243 |
| Total Blocks | 12 | 9 |
| Set Scores | 3 (25-21, 25-16, 20-25, 30-28) | 1 |
Set 1: Hilltoppers Start Strong (25-21)
WKU came out strong with a 4-0 run to start the match. Alivia Skidmore, a sophomore middle hitter, led the way with six kills, while Kendall Meller added four. The Hilltoppers’ defense was on point with a 41% sideout rate, compared to Missouri State’s 31.8%.
At the net, Izzy Van De Wiele had three blocks and Skidmore added two. WKU finished the set with four total team blocks, closing it with a block from Van De Wiele and Meller to secure the first win of the night.
Set 2: WKU Dominates (25-16)
The Hilltoppers were nearly unstoppable in the second set, hitting at an impressive .424 percentage with only one hitting error. Faith Young led the charge with five kills. When the Bears led 8-7, Young delivered four consecutive kills, turning the score to 11-8.
From that moment, WKU took full control and never looked back. Freshman Sonja Laaksonen and setter Kate Rush added to the defensive strength with crucial blocks. The Hilltoppers ended the set with confidence, taking a 2-0 match lead.
Set 3: Bears Fight Back (20-25)
Missouri State managed to claim one set as WKU struggled with service errors and recorded their lowest .184 hitting percentage of the match.
Even though Skidmore, Young, and Van De Wiele combined for several kills, the Bears capitalized on three service aces to win their only set of the night.
Set 4: A Nail-Biting Finish (30-28)
The fourth set was the most intense, featuring 18 ties and six lead changes. WKU bounced back with a .309 hitting percentage, showing great composure in pressure moments. The Hilltoppers faced five match points but refused to give in.
In the end, Skidmore’s 18th kill sealed the victory for WKU. Faith Young continued her excellent performance, earning seven kills with a .500 hitting percentage. Laaksonen also contributed with key solo blocks that made a big difference in the final moments.
Match Highlights
- Alivia Skidmore crossed the 500 career kills milestone, finishing the match with 18 kills.
- Faith Young achieved a career-high 16 kills.
- Tayler Baron led the defense with 23 digs, marking her eighth match this season with double-digit digs.
- Izzy Van De Wiele stood tall at the net with five total blocks.
- Kate Rush recorded her first double-double of the season (11 digs, 21 assists).
- Callie Bauer earned her third double-double (12 digs, 32 assists).
What’s Next for WKU
The Hilltoppers will face Missouri State again on Saturday at 1 p.m. CT to finish the series. With their winning rhythm and strong form, WKU will aim to keep their unbeaten streak in conference play alive.
The Hilltoppers’ win against Missouri State was a clear example of teamwork, determination, and strong performance under pressure. Skidmore’s power at the net, Young’s consistency, and Baron’s defensive effort made this a well-rounded victory.
WKU’s ability to recover after losing a set and close the match in a dramatic finish shows that this team has both talent and heart. With their momentum building, WKU Volleyball looks ready for even bigger challenges ahead.