Wildcats end season strong

Senior setter Torey Thompson jumps to set the ball during a Wildcats home game. Photo credit: Jovanna Garcia

The Chico State volleyball team faced Alaska Anchorage in the first round of the NCAA Tournament and lost 0-3 to end the Wildcats season Dec. 1.

The loss concludes the Wildcats season, leaving their overall record at 23-8. The 23 wins Chico State had led it to a California Collegiate Athletic Association tournament and earned it the No. 8 spot in the NCAA Tournament.

While Chico State came away with the loss, it was still a historical night as senior setter Torey Thompson who collected 21 assists to reach a career total of 4,586. Thompson passed the previous record holder coach Sable Villaescusa, as the all-time career assist leader.

The game was decided in three sets, as Alaska Anchorage provided a strong offense and committed few errors. Alaska Anchorage racked up 15 more kills than Chico State in the game and had nine fewer errors.

First-year outside hitter Kim Wright fought hard to keep Chico State from being eliminated as she blocked three shots and provided two assists. Wright also led the Wildcats in scoring with seven kills and an ace.

Although the team ends its journey in the NCAA Tournament’s first round, it managed to fight hard against its No. 1 seeded team. This is the first time the Wildcats have made it to the NCAA Tournament since 2008.

Key Players:

Torey Thompson