In a start to the 2024 Volleyball Nations League, the USA women’s national team, led by debutant Madisen Skinner, triumphed over Thailand in four sets at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanãzinho stadium. Skinner, playing her first match in the national team colors, scored a match-high 20 points to secure a 3-1 victory (25-22, 19-25, 25-12, 25-18). The win had a minimal effect on the FIVB World Rankings, with the USA maintaining their second-place spot.
Skinner’s performance was notable for her 13 kills, four blocks, and three aces. The USA’s strong blocking game was also a key factor in their victory, outperforming Thailand with a significant margin in blocks. Thailand’s top scorer was Pimpichaya Kokram with 14 points.
In another match, the Dominican Republic faced off against world champions Serbia and emerged victorious in four sets (25-18, 25-17, 21-25, 25-20). This victory allowed the Dominicans to reclaim the eighth position in the FIVB World Rankings from Japan, while Serbia remained fourth.
