The Auburn women’s volleyball team is set to open its 2025 season on the road with a major challenge, facing off against No. 4 Louisville on Friday evening.
The Tigers are coming off a 2024 campaign that was middling at best. They finished just above .500 overall but struggled in conference play, going 4-12 in Southeastern Conference action. Looking to turn the page, Auburn participated in its annual Orange and White Scrimmage earlier this month, as well as an exhibition match against Georgia Tech, to prepare for the new season.
While Auburn hasn’t faced a ranked opponent in quite some time—much less a top-five program—head coach Brent Crouch hopes the team’s returning experience and fresh additions from the transfer portal will give the Tigers a fighting chance against one of the nation’s elite programs.
Experience Returns for Both Sides
Auburn returns several key players from last season, bringing much-needed continuity to the lineup. Outside hitters Lauren Dreves and specialist Bel Zimmerman, along with libero Alexis Dacosta headline the group of veterans expected to make an impact in Friday’s opener.
The Tigers, however, will be without one of their top performers from last year—outside hitter Madison Scheer—who led the team in kills in 2024. With her absence, Zimmerman and Dreves will likely shoulder a larger offensive load, while Dacosta anchors the back line defensively.
Louisville, coming off another deep NCAA tournament run, returns a wealth of talent as well. The Cardinals bring back three starters and multiple preseason honorees. Middle blocker Cara Cresse and outside hitter Chloe Chicoine were both named AVCA Preseason All-Americans, while Chicoine, Cresse and setter Nayelis Cabello earned spots on the All-ACC Preseason Team.
Louisville’s Defense Presents Major Test
The Cardinals boast one of the most imposing defenses in the country. In 2024, Louisville led the NCAA in blocks per set (3.09) and total blocks (393), while also ranking No. 10 in opponent hitting percentage at .154.
That level of net presence presents a serious challenge for Auburn’s attackers. The Tigers, who ranked fourth in the SEC last season with a team hitting percentage of .227, will need to be both aggressive and efficient at the net to avoid falling into defensive traps set by Louisville’s front line.
Last season, Auburn also ranked seventh in the conference in service aces with 127. Improved serving and creative offensive play will be crucial in disrupting the Cardinals’ rhythm.
Transfer Additions Bolster Auburn’s Depth
Recognizing the need for added firepower, Auburn brought in five transfers during the offseason, all of whom bring NCAA tournament-level experience.
The group includes Belle Patrick, Eden Bower, Kate Mansfield, Shanelle Puetz and Liz Markovska. Patrick stands out as a player to watch, having been named to the All-ACC Freshman Team last year while at Virginia Tech. Each transfer brings unique strengths, from blocking and passing to attacking, giving Auburn more flexibility and depth heading into the season.
Series History and Game Information
This will be the fifth all-time meeting between Auburn and Louisville. The Cardinals lead the series 3-1, including a sweep the last time the two programs met.
First serve is scheduled for 5 p.m. CST at L&N Federal Credit Union Arena in Louisville. The match will be broadcast on ACC Network +.
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