Ole Miss Volleyball will travel to Houston on Friday, Sept. 20 to take on the University of Houston Cougars.
In this Big 12 versus SEC matchup, both teams bring strong performances and high hopes for their seasons into the game.
Coming off of an 11-18 (5-13 in the SEC) season in 2023, the Rebels are aware that this season is not going to be any easier, with seven ranked teams on this year’s schedule.
Ole Miss is predicted to enter each game with heavy momentum thanks to experienced veterans and new players alike on its roster.
Talented players for Ole Miss include middle blockers Sasha Ratliff and Payton Brgoch, and outside hitter Julia Dyess, who ended last season with more than 200 kills. Defensive specialist Cammy Neiesen plays a major part of this team’s defensive system.
Newcomers Ragan Kinard from USF and Emma Ammerman from Pepperdine tally over 400 kills in less than 100 matches played. UCLA transfer Mokihana Tufono finished with 100 digs, 21 aces and 27 assists last season. All three have proven to be strong additions to the team.
Losing in the second round of the NCAA tournament last year ending with a 19-10 overall record, Houston looks to bounce back with high energy and new players as well.
Annie Cooke, a versatile opposite hitter and setter, has been a strong competitor throughout her collegiate years for the Cougars. University of Miami transfer Angela Grieve carries a lot of offensive power with the help of transfer setter Rebecca Rocassin from Jacksonville, Fla., who recorded 1,036 assists last season.
The Rebels will need to focus on locking down Grieve and Cooke if they wish to shut down the Cougars to claim a much-needed victory. Using Dyess at the net to put up a huge amount of kills will help their overall offensive front.
Juniors Nia Washington and Vivian Miller will also be key players for the Rebels up at the net to take down the Cougars’ Grieve and Barron. The Rebels’ offensive intensity and defensive strength make them intimidating competition on the court.
The Rebels will take on the University of Houston Cougars on Friday, Sept. 20 at 3 p.m. ESPN+ and SEC Network+ will broadcast the game.
