LOUISVILLE, Ky., – Clemson showed its fight throughout a challenging match against Louisville, pushing the Cardinals to the limit in the third set before the match ended 25-10, 25-13, 28-26.
The Tigers continued to compete through the first two sets, with Anika Groom and Talea Mitchell providing key kills in the opening set. Groom’s kill, assisted by Katherine Sandt, helped Clemson stay engaged at 22-10. In the second set, Groom and Brianna Washington combined for a block as Clemson continued to battle at the net.
Clemson’s strongest performance came in the third set. The Tigers built an 11-7 lead behind kills from Mitchell and Lina Merz and blocks from Maddie Anspaugh, Mitchell and Sandt. Groom added key kills assisted by Sandt, and Clemson reached set point at 24-23 and 25-24.
The Tigers continued trading points with Louisville through 26-26, forcing an extended finish. Clemson’s defensive pressure, offensive balance and composure in the third set highlighted the team’s persistence and gave the Tigers their most competitive stretch of the match.
With the 3-0 loss the Tigers are now 8-15 on the season and 2-9 in conference play.
Tiger Leaders
- Points: Lina Merz, Talea Mitchell – 9.5
- Kills: Lina Merz – 9
- Digs: Katherine Sandt – 9
- Assists: Katherine Sandt – 24
- Blocks: Talea Mitchell – 3
Up Next: The Tigers will continue on the road at Notre Dame on Sunday, Nov. 1 at 1 pm. The team will then return home for games against Wake Forest on Nov. 6 and NC State on Nov. 8. All the Tigers matches will be streamed on ACCNX. For the most up to date schedule information go to clemsontigers.com