Kamden Schrand Shines as Cardinals Defeat Illinois

The Cardinals leaned on defense in a big way Sunday afternoon, and junior libero Kamden Schrand answered the call. Inside the KFC Yum! Center, Schrand turned in a career-best performance to help No. 4 Louisville take down Illinois 3–1 and keep their undefeated start intact.

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Schrand was everywhere on the floor, finishing with 28 digs, just two shy of the program’s single-match record. Time after time, her ability to read hitters and extend rallies swung momentum back to the Cards.

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Her impact went beyond digging. Schrand handled a team-high 51 serve receptions with consistency, helping Louisville stay steady in first-contact play. She also fired in 24 serves, a clear sign that the Cards built momentum whenever she was behind the line.

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What made the outing even more impressive? It was only Schrand’s fourth career start in a Louisville uniform. Playing with the poise of a seasoned veteran, she anchored the back row and earned player of the match honors for her effort.

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Head coach Dan Meske praised Schrand afterward, pointing to her energy and reliability as a difference maker in the win.

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Now 4–0, Louisville turns its attention to a marquee matchup on Wednesday night against No. 2 Texas in Dallas. With the Longhorns looming, the Cards will once again look to their defensive anchor to steady the backcourt on one of the biggest stages of the season.