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- Utah's women's volleyball team marked its 50th anniversary with a commanding 3-0 victory over No. 17 TCU at the Huntsman Center, demonstrating their strong control of both offense and defense.
- The Utes capitalized on their depth and balance to overpower a TCU team with an 11-3 record, securing three consecutive 25-22 set wins.
- Kamry Bailey played a pivotal role, providing leadership and defensive prowess with 10 digs, two blocks, and seven kills, despite a minor ankle injury.
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah celebrated 50 years of women's volleyball in spectacular fashion on Thursday night, sweeping No. 17 TCU 3-0 at the Huntsman Center, continuing their momentum with a two-match win streak.
The atmosphere was electric, the team radiated energy on the court and an undeniable spirit as they welcomed their new Big 12 opponent TCU for the first time since 2010.
The Utes displayed the depth and balance that has become hallmarks of the season. Their ability to control both ends of the court proved decisive against the Horned Frogs, who came into the match with an impressive 11-3 record.
The first set saw both teams exchange powerful rallies, with TCU's Melanie Parra leading the Horned Frogs' attack.
But Utah's determination shone through, with Kamryn Gibadlo, Lauren Jardine, Emrie Satuala, and Allie Olsen all contributing to the offense. The set was hard-fought, but the Utes closed it out 25-22.
In the second set, Utah, once again, showed resilience, pushing back against a strong TCU defense to secure another 25-22 win.
Kamry Bailey was a defensive standout, totaling 10 digs, two blocks, and seven kills before suffering a minor ankle injury late in the third set.
"Luckily, it wasn't too bad," Bailey said. "It's next-ball mentality — you figure it out."
UTAH GETS THE UPSET 🙌@UtahVolleyball takes down No. 17 TCU in 3 sets!#NCAAWVBpic.twitter.com/b7Hn6HKeZ8
— NCAA Women's Volleyball (@NCAAVolleyball) October 11, 2024
Bailey's leadership on and off the court has been critical for Utah's success this season.
"This program has grown a lot ever since I've been here, and it's just been an amazing experience to play with these girls and these coaches," Bailey said. "I have a voice that's pretty loud and it carries, so I've learned how to say the right things to help our team out. Honestly, that's why I've found myself on the court for the most part — my voice and my ball control."
The third set was the most competitive, with TCU taking their first lead of the game at 12-11, but Utah's continued resilience and the unrelenting support of the home crowd pushed the Utes to another 25-22 victory.
Ashley West was sidelined due to injury Thursday night, but her impact was still felt.
"I just try to give to the team in any way that I can," West said. "There have been amazing players that come about this program, especially under coach (Beth) Launiere, so to be able to play on a night like this and get a huge win for this program is another tally mark in the history book."
6️⃣0️⃣0️⃣➕️ wins
— Utah Volleyball (@UtahVolleyball) August 21, 2024
3️⃣0️⃣0️⃣➕️ conference wins
2️⃣3️⃣ AVCA All-Americans @CoachLauniere heads into year 35 and the @Big12Conference with a resume unlike any other‼️#GoUtespic.twitter.com/oT1rkYB6R0
With another top-25 matchup coming up against No. 18 Baylor on Saturday, the Utes will look to build on their momentum and continue their impressive season.
Meanwhile, TCU will head south to face No. 23 BYU in Provo in what promises to be another Big 12 showdown.
Utah's victory was more than just a win, it was a celebration of 50 years of Utah volleyball — a testament to the spirit and resilience of a program that continues to thrive.
