Riding the momentum of two straight wins, the Providence Friars will prove to be tough competition for the UConn volleyball program as they are set to face off on Oct. 25.
In the last month of regular season play, both teams are hungry to improve their standings going into the post-season. With the season nearing its end, every conference matchup becomes increasingly important for teams like UConn and Providence, who are looking to finish strong and qualify for the Big East tournament.
With their last two matches being losses to teams in the Big East, the Huskies have struggled to secure victories within their conference.
Their conference record currently sits at 1-7, contributing to their overall record of 8-13.
Despite these challenges, there is hope for UConn, as they hold an 8-2 advantage in the all-time series against the Friars and pulled out a 3-1 win over them at home last season.
This year’s Providence team is performing fairly well, boasting an overall record of 11-8 and a conference record of 3-5. Their two most recent victories were over Big East teams, both of which the Huskies have lost to this season. The Friars are backed by their three statistical leaders: Sophia Adkins, Kaia Easterbrook and Miller McDonald.
Adkins, a junior, leads the team in points, averaging 3.07 per set. She also leads in kills, averaging 2.63 a set.
Easterbrook, a sophomore, holds the team high for attack percentage at .407.
McDonald, a captain, heads the team in assists per set, averaging 4.99. Additionally, she leads in service aces, averaging .036 per set.
As much as Providence has its leaders, UConn does too.
Sydney Borowy leads the team in points, averaging 3.1 per set. The freshman also leads in kills, averaging 2.79 a set. Borowy has been a pretty consistent player all season for the Huskies, putting up impressive numbers in only her first year.
As for assists, Isabella Sohl leads the team, averaging 7.33 per set. She also holds the team high for attack percentage at .314.
Another reliable player for UConn, Maja Daca, leads the team in service aces per set, averaging .61.
With the Huskies eager to improve their conference record and the Friars determined to continue their winning streak, this matchup is sure to be exciting. The game will be held at Mullaney Gymnasium in Alumni Hall and streamed on ESPN+. Start time is set for 4 p.m.