Back to Dominant Form: Chicoine and the Cards Sweep NC State

Louisville returned to form in Raleigh, sweeping NC State for its third consecutive straight-set victory and continuing to build late-season momentum. The seventh-ranked Cardinals controlled every phase of the match, hitting .343 as a team while holding the Wolfpack to limited offensive rhythm throughout.

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Chicoine Sets the Tone

Sophomore outside hitter Chloe Chicoine once again led the charge, posting 15 kills with her trademark intensity and consistency on the attack. When Chicoine finds her rhythm, Louisville’s offense tends to follow — and Friday night was no exception.

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Balanced Firepower Across the Lineup

Freshman opposite Kalyssa Blackshear continued her steady play with 11 kills on 19 swings, providing balance on the right side. In the middle, senior Cara Cresse delivered one of the most efficient performances of the season, finishing with nine kills on 11 attempts without an error for an .818 hitting percentage, the highest by any Cardinal this year. Cresse also added five blocks, anchoring a front line that dictated play at the net.

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Louisville’s defense was equally sharp. Libero Kamden Schrand and defensive specialist Hannah Kenny combined for 27 digs, while four different Cardinals recorded service aces, maintaining constant pressure from the service line.

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Clean, Confident, and Controlled

This was Louisville volleyball at its most composed — efficient in transition, aggressive at the net, and unwavering in execution. NC State’s Courtney Bryant managed 13 kills, but the Wolfpack never found consistent momentum against the Cardinals’ balanced attack and disciplined block.

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With the sweep, Louisville continues to strengthen its position near the top of the ACC standings and appears to be hitting its stride at the perfect time.