Zips Set to Battle Bowling Green on the Road

The Akron Zips volleyball team is gearing up for a pivotal two-match series against the Bowling Green Falcons on November 7 and 8, as they strive to maintain their recent momentum in Mid-American Conference (MAC) play.

How to Follow the Action

Fans can stay updated with live stats and video streams available for both matches.

Stat Leaders

Akron's offensive powerhouse, Delaney Gash, leads the team with 393 kills and 425.5 points this season. Setter Martina Villani has orchestrated the offense with 994 assists, while defensive specialist Vanessa Del Real tops the charts with 402 digs and 40 service aces. At the net, Chidera Ozoh has been formidable, recording 108 blocks.

For Bowling Green, Avery Hobson leads with 319 kills and 360 points. Amanda Otten has contributed 668 assists, and Sydnie Hernandez anchors the defense with 388 digs and 28 aces. Helen Wilford has been a blocking force with 118 blocks.

A Look at the Series

Historically, Bowling Green holds a 49-21 advantage over Akron. The Zips' last victory against the Falcons was on October 4, 2019, when they secured a 3-1 win in Bowling Green.

Recent Performances

Akron is coming off a strong performance, including a thrilling five-set victory over Buffalo on October 28. In that match, Delaney Gash delivered 24 kills and 12 digs, while Martina Villani added 39 assists and 12 digs, showcasing the team's resilience and depth.

Earlier in the season, the Zips demonstrated their tenacity with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Northern Illinois on October 24. Gabby Brissett stood out with 15 kills at a .519 attack percentage, and Vanessa Del Real contributed 26 digs, highlighting the team's balanced attack and defensive prowess.

Scouting Bowling Green

The Falcons, with a 13-13 overall record and a 7-7 mark in the MAC, are looking to rebound after recent losses, including a 3-0 defeat to Miami. Despite the setback, Amanda Otten led the team with 15 assists and eight digs in that match, while Jessica Andrews added seven kills.

Bowling Green ranks in the top five in several MAC statistical categories, including total points and blocks per set, indicating their competitive edge in the conference.

Milestones to Watch

Several Zips are approaching significant career milestones:

• Vanessa Del Real is 239 digs away from tying for 10th in Akron's all-time digs list.
• Del Real is also nine aces shy of entering the top 10 in career service aces.
• Martina Villani is 601 assists away from 10th place in the program's all-time assists.
• Delaney Gash is 63 kills away from breaking into the top 10 for single-season kills.

Looking Ahead

Following the series against Bowling Green, Akron will conclude the regular season with home matches against Toledo on November 14 and 15 at James A. Rhodes Arena, aiming to solidify their position for the upcoming MAC Tournament.

As the Zips prepare for this crucial stretch, their blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent positions them as formidable contenders in the conference.