After a disappointing start to the season in the Mizzou Invitational, Missouri volleyball (0-3) continues its journey toward their first win when they travel to Louisville, Kentucky, for the Cardinal Classic this weekend.
Missouri is scheduled to play against a pair of 2020 NCAA Tournament teams this upcoming weekend when they take on host team No. 12 Louisville and South Dakota, whom the Tigers defeated 3-0 in the first round last year.
The Tigers will begin their tournament slate on Friday, Sept. 3 against Louisville at 7 p.m, then take on Northern Kentucky less than 24 hours later at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday will feature Missouri’s anticipated rematch of South Dakota, which will take place at 9:30 a.m.
Following last weekend’s losses to Creighton, Missouri-St. Louis and Missouri-Kansas City in the Mizzou Invitational, Missouri is looking to capitalize on the opportunity they have to play against one of the country’s premier talents in Louisville. The early season matchups against South Dakota and Northern Kentucky will give Missouri another two non-conference showdowns that will help them gain more experience against high-quality teams.
Experience is key for Missouri, as they brought in more newcomers than returning players this season. Although this may be looked at early as a rebuilding season, the veteran leadership behind junior Anna Dixon and the seven freshmen hope to get the Tigers back on track before the start of SEC play.
Tigers To Watch
Junior outside hitter Anna Dixon: Dixon was a 2020 All-SEC player last year and serves as a veteran presence for a team that has more newcomers than returning members. She compiled a team-high 40 kills and an additional 21 digs across three games last weekend. As part of that performance, she recorded 11 kills and 11 digs in the Creighton game alone, which marked her first double-double as a member of the Tigers.
Freshman middle blocker Kayla Burbage: Burbage starred in her first games as a freshman with 24 kills and 11 block assists, including a team-high five blocks against St. Louis. Coach Joshua Taylor said he sees promise in Burbage given her three starts in as many matches, and she should see the court a lot this weekend.
Sophomore defensive specialist Emily Brown: Missouri’s libero, Brown, had a team-high 40 digs throughout the three games where she averaged 4.00 digs per set. Brown’s early season success, coupled with her talent shown last season, will make her an invaluable member of this young core.
Freshman outside hitter Kaylee Cox: Another one of Missouri’s promising freshmen, Cox displayed all-around skill last weekend with 20 kills, 12 digs and 6 block assists. The Cardinal Classic serves as a great opportunity for her to face top college competition.
Edited by Mason Arneson | marneson@themaneater.com
