The University of Cincinnati volleyball team is set to face Texas Tech in a home match on Thursday at Fifth Third Arena. The Bearcats aim to break a four-match losing streak, holding an overall record of 11-7 and 2-5 in the Big 12 Conference.
Recently, Cincinnati faced three top-25 teams, managing to take one set from No. 18 TCU before losing in four sets. In their last four matches, the Bearcats have utilized a 6-2 rotation with Katelyn Lefler and Caroline Endres as setters. Endres achieved her first double-double of the season against TCU with 14 assists and 10 digs.
Katelyn Lefler returned to play against Baylor after missing the Kansas game due to injury. She has recorded seven double-doubles this season and ranks eighth in the league for assists per set (9.31), having delivered over 40 assists in five matches.
Freshman Fallon Stewart led scoring against two top-ranked opponents last week, achieving a .444 hitting percentage against Baylor. Fellow freshman Faith Frame has consistently recorded over ten digs in matches, ranking seventh in the league for digs per set (3.98). Frame was also highlighted by NCAA correspondent Michella Chester as one of eight standout freshmen this season.
Junior Carly Glendinning leads the team in kills, points, and aces per set while sophomore Zeta Washington has contributed significantly since returning to play. Sydney Nolan ranks second on the team for kills and third for digs.
Cincinnati's blocking performance places them fourth in the Big 12 and 79th nationally, totaling 150 blocks this season. Senior Abby Walker ranks ninth in league blocks per set while redshirt junior Ligia Williams stands seventh.
The Bearcats have won all games where they outhit their opponents but currently face challenges with opponents averaging higher hitting percentages during Big 12 matchups.
Thursday's game marks only the second meeting between Cincinnati and Texas Tech; their first encounter ended with a Bearcats' victory last year. A win would not only end Cincinnati’s current losing streak but also mark their second consecutive win against Texas Tech.
"Faith Frame has been recognized as one of eight standout freshmen on NCAA correspondent Michella Chester's mid-season top freshman list," highlighting her impact as she continues her breakout season as both "the only Big 12 volleyball player included" and "the sole libero on the list."
Head coach Molly Alvey is nearing a personal milestone with just two more wins needed to reach her 200th victory at Cincinnati.