Villanova Volleyball loses in Big East Tournament Final

The Villanova University women's volleyball team traveled to Omaha this weekend to take part in the Big East tournament. In their first game on Friday night, the Wildcats faced off against the Xavier Musketeers, defeating them in straight sets (25-20, 25-19, 25-17). Amanda Pederson-Henry led the way for the offense with 13 kills and Claire Crutchfield added 10 kills as well; overall, the Wildcats had a 64% match attack percentage in comparison to the 48% match attack percentage for the Musketeers. Allison Fitzgerald led the defensive effort for the 'Cats with 11 digs.

Unfortunately, the Wildcats fell short with a tough loss to the top-seeded Creighton Blue Jays in the Big East Championship match, losing in straight sets (25-18, 25-18, 25-17). Allie Loitz led Villanova's offense with 9 kills, while Amanda Pederson-Henry, and Gabby Pethekoukis added 7 kills each. Allison Fitzgerald led the way for all players in the match with 19 digs, but the Blue Jays offense was just too much to handle, with a match attack percentage of 78% and having at least a 77% attack percentage in every set. Both Amanda Pederson-Henry and Emma Pettit were named to the all-tournament team for their production in the two matches this weekend.

The Blue Jays clinched the automatic bid for the NCAA tournament as conference champions, which leaves the Wildcats at the mercy of the selection committee tonight. Overall, the Wildcats had a great season, finishing 25-8 overall, including 14-4 in Big East play. Their victory at home against Creighton could prove to be vital for their hopes tomorrow, proving that they can defeat NCAA tournament quality opponents. We wish the 'Cats the best of luck on Selection Sunday tonight.