Auburn women’s volleyball is starting a tough two-game stretch this weekend with No. 6 Texas A&M coming to town. The Tigers have won three of their past four matches heading into this top-10 matchup and hope to get back in the win column after a recent loss to Georgia.
“Georgia is a very good, very physical team,” said Auburn head coach Brent Crouch after the loss to Georgia. “Obviously, their serving created a bunch of problems for us in set two, and it took us a while to get back into the rhythm of the match. Tough way to end a difficult road trip, but we’re really looking forward to getting back home, spending some time in the gym, and playing in front of the Auburn family next Friday.”
Lauren Dreves continues to impress this season and will be a key player in this matchup after eclipsing 500 career kills. She also recorded her eighth straight double-digit kill match against Georgia, marking her 21st of the season.
The Tigers have been dominant at the net defensively, leading the conference in blocks per set at 2.94. They rank No. 1 in the SEC and No. 7 nationally. Middle blockers Kate Mansfield and Grace Havlicek have anchored that effort. Auburn is seeking its 13th match this season with double-digit blocks.
Alexis Dacosta has been consistent all season, averaging 3.80 digs per set and helping the Tigers hold opponents to a .186 hitting percentage. Defense will be the calling card for Crouch’s squad as it looks to grind out sets against a top-tier opponent.
The Aggies are putting together their best season so far under third-year head coach Jamie Morrison, who has led his team to top wins over No. 2 Texas and No. 16 Tennessee this season. Senior Maddie Waak will be one to watch in this matchup, as she has become one of the best setters in the country, leading the nation in assists per set with 11.34.
Texas A&M is currently on a six-game win streak, with Kyndall Stowers serving as its most recent kill leader. She has been on a tear over the past few matches, racking up kills with ease and dominating at the net. The Tigers will need to game plan for her well if they hope to slow her down.
Auburn has a losing record in the series at 5-15, including a 3-5 mark at home. With the SEC Tournament just around the corner, a ranked win over the Aggies would give the Tigers a much-needed boost of confidence heading into the postseason.
The Tigers will face the Aggies on Military Appreciation Night on Friday at 6 p.m. CST. The match will be broadcast on SECN+.
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