Rivalry Recap: Louisville Tops Kentucky in Historic Spring Match

In a sold-out showdown that marked the first spring match in program history to be televised (thanks, ESPN+), Louisville Volleyball showed up and showed out—continuing their dominance over in-state rival Kentucky with a strong performance across four sets.

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Set 1:

Louisville rolled out its expected starting lineup, with Nayelis Cabello running a 5-1 alongside Reese Robins, Cara Cresse, Hannah Sherman, Payton Petersen, and Chloe Chicoine.

Kamden Schrand held down the libero jersey, while Hannah Kenny subbed in for Reese on defense and Ava Utterback served for Cara.

• Reese Robins led the Cards with 4 kills in the opener.
• Nay Cabello notched an ace and threw down a solo block, setting the tone early.

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Set 2:

No changes to the lineup, and the Cards stayed steady.

• Chloe Chicoine led the way offensively with 5 kills in the set, flashing her usual mix of power and precision.

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Set 3:

Louisville stayed with the same group, continuing to build rhythm and control. While individual stats weren’t tracked in detail, the consistency across the first three sets was a clear strength—especially for a team testing new systems under first-year head coach Dan Meske.

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Set 4:

 A few changes gave fans a glimpse of the team’s depth:

• Alanna Bankston and Ava Utterback stepped in at outside hitter
• Kalyssa Blackshear, the 6'5" freshman, took the floor at right side
•  This mix brought a different look and some fresh energy to close things out.

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Final Thoughts:

Louisville’s depth, blocking presence, and clean serve-pass game stood out against a Kentucky squad still adjusting to life with a new setter. As expected, Nay Cabello ran the offense with poise, Cara Cresse was a constant threat on the slide, and Kamden Schrand looked steady in her anticipated libero role.

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The win extends Louisville’s streak in the rivalry to five straight, and if this spring match is any indication—the fall rematch is going to be can’t-miss.