Texas Volleyball is steamrolling ahead with another impressive performance. No. 2 Volleyball recorded its eighth consecutive sweep after blowing away LSU. Freshman Cari Spears was on fire as she recorded 16 kills. Meanwhile, Torrey Stafford extended her terrific season so far by adding her eighth double-double.
While matches like these may have garnered far less attention and fandom in the past, the digital age has changed all that. The influence of social media enables teams to provide behind-the-scenes updates and content directly to fans and spectators these days, drumming up all kinds of new support for women’s college volleyball in the state.
Online volleyball-themed gaming is also becoming more popular as more players catch on to the electrifying nature of the sport. Titles like The Spike Cross are popular on mobile platforms. Even casino games are getting in on the act with volleyball-themed slot games like Beach Volley. However, with local gambling laws being among the most restrictive in the nation, people usually have to look abroad for options that let them play online in the Lone Star State. These sites are becoming popular locally for their convenience, wide-ranging payout methods, and accessibility, even in states like Texas where gambling is strictly regulated.
All this has amounted to a lot more publicity and engagement for women’s sports, even at college and state levels. The impressive streak recorded by No.2 Texas Volleyball has garnered a lot of attention for the team recently. With many players likely eyeing professional contracts one day, the level of play has been mesmerizing at times.
Sunday’s match in Baton Rouge saw Texas dominate from start to finish, taking the sets 27-25, 25-21, and 25-18. Spears and Stafford led an impressive offensive display, supported by strong blocking from Taylor Harvey and Ayden Ames. The Longhorns’ consistent defence and quick transitions helped limit LSU’s attack efficiency throughout the contest.
This victory marked Texas’ 15th straight win over LSU dating back to 1991. The team has now won 58 of its last 60 road games and remains unbeaten in SEC away fixtures since joining the conference. Head coach Jerritt Elliott continues his perfect record against the Tigers as Texas sets its sights on Texas A&M next Friday.
With female college sports having to settle for markedly less attention in the past, the digital era is helping bridge those gaps. The popularity of mediums like social media has opened the women’s game up to all new audiences. Many newer generation players now blend their on-court prowess with budding social media followings that offer them the opportunity to increase visibility and endorsement opportunities as they develop their game. The sky is the limit now for budding female volleyball players in Texas who can now engage with more experienced ones directly through content platforms.
As for The Longhorns, momentum is clearly on their side. Their depth, composure, and consistency are driving a season that already feels destined for more silverware.