BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Nevada Volleyball team is set to return to action this weekend at the Roadrunner Classic hosted by Cal State Bakersfield. The Wolf Pack, fresh off a successful showing at the Rose City Showdown, went 2-1. Securing two five set wins over San Franciso and Portland State. Both Bella Snyder and Gabby McLaughlin earned spots on the All-Tournament Team, will look to build on their momentum as they face a challenging slate of matches in Bakersfield.
Roadrunner Classic Schedule:
Nevada vs. Seattle U
Thursday, Sep. 5, 2024 - 6 P.M.
Bakersfield, Calif. - Icardo Center
TV/Stream: Live Stats
Nevada vs. Oregon State
Friday, Sep. 6, 2024 - 1 P.M.
Bakersfield, Calif. - Icardo Center
TV/Stream: Live Stats
Nevada at CSU Bakersfield
Saturday, Sep. 7, 2024 - 2 P.M.
Bakersfield, Calif. - Icardo Center
TV/Stream: ESPN+
Nevada will face Seattle University in their upcoming match, and understanding Seattle U's recent performance will be crucial for the Wolf Pack. Seattle U comes into the match with a 1-2 overall record, indicating some early season struggles. However, they possess a few standout players who could pose challenges. Merima Smajlovic leads Seattle U with 35 kills, averaging 2.92 kills per set. Another player to watch is Arianna Bilby, who has contributed 28 kills thus far this season. On the defensive side, Katlyn Sipes is notable with 40 digs, averaging 3.64 digs per set, which highlights her ability to anchor the defense. Nevada will need to focus on minimizing the impact of these players while capitalizing on Seattle U's weaknesses, particularly their lower attack efficiency and blocking capabilities, to secure a victory in this encounter.
Nevada is set to face a formidable opponent in Oregon State, a team that used to compete in the PAC-12, one of the most competitive conferences in collegiate athletics, but now plays in the West Coast Conference. This experience makes Oregon State a tough competitor, despite their 1-2 start to the season. The Beavers' offense is led by Lauren Rumel, who has been a dominant force with 55 kills, averaging 4.58 kills per set. Annika Hester also contributes significantly with 35 kills at an average of 2.92 kills per set. Oregon State's balanced attack is complemented by strong serving, with the team averaging 2.0 aces per set, and defensive efforts led by Yasemin Narlioglu, who averages 3.75 digs per set.
The tournament concludes on Saturday with a match against the host team, CSU Bakersfield. Nevada will look to repeat last year's success against the Roadrunners. Seattle U has shown some early season struggles, holding a 1-2 record, but they remain a competitive team. Merima Smajlovic stands out as SeattleU's primary offensive threat with 35 kills, averaging 2.92 kills per set. Arianna Bilby and Yasemin Elmas also contribute to their offensive success. Defensively, Katlyn Sipes leads the team with 40 digs, averaging 3.64 digs per set.
FOLLOW THE PACK
Fans can follow all the action and stay updated on Nevada Volleyball's progress by following @Nevada_Volleyball on, Instagram and @NevadaWVB on X. Don't miss the opportunity to see the Pack in action this weekend in Bakersfield!
