Position Battle Preview: Louisville Setters Gear Up for 2025 Season

As the Louisville Cardinals prepare for the 2025 volleyball season, all eyes are on the setter position, a crucial role that could define the team’s offensive identity this fall. With standout returners and a high-profile newcomer now on campus, the battle for playing time is heating up.

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Nayelis Cabello, the reigning ACC Freshman of the Year, enters the new season as the frontrunner. After a breakout debut in 2024, Cabello showcased her versatility by running a 5-1 offense during the spring season. Her presence at the net provided an extra layer of offensive firepower, becoming a key X-factor for the Cardinals. With another year of development, Cabello is poised to take full command of the court and lead Louisville’s offense.

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However, Molly Wilson, a graduate transfer from the University of Washington, brings experience and poise to the competition. Wilson led the Huskies to the NCAA Tournament in 2024 while orchestrating a 6-2 offense. Now at Louisville and pursuing a master’s degree in Couples and Family Therapy, Wilson brings a seasoned skill set and a winning pedigree that will immediately challenge for significant playing time.

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Meanwhile, Hannah Kenny, a highly touted recruit, is carving a different path. Originally brought in as a setter, Kenny has spent the spring transitioning to a libero and defensive specialist role. Her strong platform and defensive instincts may anchor her in the back row, though her hands remain reliable should the Cardinals need a setting option in a pinch.

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With depth, talent, and versatility, Louisville's setter group promises to be one of the most dynamic in the ACC. Whether the team leans into a 5-1 or 6-2 system, the competition will continue to elevate each player and raise the ceiling for the Cardinals in 2025.