The off-season is a time dedicated to team growth, whether that be in the weight room, training on the court or exploring new opportunities to bond. Women’s basketball took advantage of this opportunity in its annual return to the intermural volleyball leagues at the Wellness Center on Monday, April 24. The team, nicknamed Best Sets You Ever Had, faced off against the Black Thunder W, and after a close defeat the week prior, the athletes were ready to bring their A-game to the match off.
“I think it definitely brings us together,” shared sophomore Mallory Meyer, “because we constantly celebrate and pick each other up.”
The courts were echoing with encouragement and cooperation from Best Sets You Ever Had’s court, as they were determined to maintain competitive play on new turf. The night saw some impressive net play by first-years Bailey Nez and Taylor Svoboda, who claimed a number of kills in the first set. Sideline players could be heard from across the gym cheering through the lows and highs of the match.
Meyer stated, “A lot of aspects, like communication and energy, translate to basketball.”
Best Sets You Ever Had lost 19-25 after a hard-fought first set, but they weren’t going down without a fight in the second. First-years Bailey Griffis and Josie Eager brought hustle to the defense right from the start, alongside some loud courtmanship from senior Delaney Brookes. First-year Sophie Morey caught the other team on their heels with a number of tips and Svoboda snagged three aces towards the end of the second set to push the team ahead. After a tug-a-war of points, Best Sets You Ever Had fell just short in the second set, losing the nail-biter 27-29.