CEDAR CITY, Utah – Southern Utah volleyball (1-10) will host in-state rival Utah Tech (9-3) to open WAC conference play Thursday at 6:30 PM MT. The Thunderbirds open conference play after a challenging non-conference slate. This matchup features a growing rivalry between the two programs, with bragging rights and early conference momentum on the line.

Coach Jensen Said

“We’re excited to open conference play at home against a quality opponent in Utah Tech. Our non-conference schedule challenged us in a lot of ways, and I feel like our group has grown from those experiences.”

Keys for the Thunderbirds

Through the first stretch of the season, Southern Utah has shown promise, but will look to sharpen several areas as they open WAC play. Offensively, the Thunderbirds are averaging 10.8 kills per set on a .144 hitting percentage, and cutting down on the 269 attack errors will be critical to turning long rallies into points. From the service line, SUU has produced 53 aces (1.2 per set), but the team has also committed nearly 100 service errors, an area where efficiency could make a major difference in tight sets. Defensively, the Thunderbirds have been steady, averaging 11.8 digs per set and posting 2.1 blocks per set, both numbers that show they can hang in long exchanges. To swing momentum against Utah Tech, SUU will need to improve first-contact consistency and find ways to turn defensive stops into transition scoring opportunities. Cleaning up the small details could help the Thunderbirds flip close sets into wins.

Utah Tech

The Trailblazers enter WAC play with momentum, boasting a 9–3 record and strong statistical advantages across several categories. Offensively, Utah Tech is averaging 13.5 kills per set on a sharp .224 hitting percentage, significantly outpacing opponents in both efficiency and production. Their balanced attack has been supported by 542 assists (12.3 per set), showing they can consistently spread the ball to multiple options at the net. From the service line, Utah Tech has delivered 53 aces (1.2 per set) while keeping reception errors even with opponents (1.2 per set), underscoring their steadiness in first contact. Defensively, the Trailblazers have been effective, averaging 14.3 digs per set and holding opponents to a .167 hitting percentage. Their net play has been especially strong, with 2.8 blocks per set and a 123–88 edge in total blocks on the season. With efficiency in attack, discipline at the net, and defensive consistency, Utah Tech enters Cedar City as a tough, well-rounded opponent.

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