A historic run for the Louisville Cardinals comes to an end in a heartbreaking sweep by the #1 Texas Longhorns in the 2022 NCAA Women’s Volleyball National Championship game. Under Head Coach Dani Busboom Kelly, the Cardinals have reached new heights this season with their first ever berth in the National Championship game.
Louisville also became the first representative of the ACC Conference in the game as they defeated Pittsburgh in the Final Four matchup with a dominant fifth set win over the Panthers. Despite their dominating win, the Cardinals could not overcome the Longhorns.
The three-headed beast of Logan Eggleston, Madisen Skinner, and Asjia O’Neal were too much for the Cardinals as they recorded a combined 40 kills, which was more than the entire Louisville team. In three sets, Louisville only managed to record 36 total kills, led by Claire Chaussee and Anna DeBeer.
Chaussee was dubbed the ACC Player of the Year and DeBeer was named the All-Regional MVP throughout the tournament, but their historic seasons came to an abrupt halt against the Longhorns. These girls gave it their all in helping keep the first and third sets close and helped cap off a very memorable season for the Cardinals.
Not only should this team receive their flowers for their accomplishments this season, but they should also be recognized for their sheer, genuine love for one another. Current ESPN reporter and former Louisville volleyball star, Katie George, interviewed Head Coach Kelly and Claire Chaussee after their Final Four matchup and it is evident that this team loves each other.
"I just don't have any words for this."@clairechaussee9 is overcome with emotions after the match as she and @danib18 speak with @Katie_George05 after defeating Pitt in five sets.
— NCAA Women's Volleyball (@NCAAVolleyball) December 16, 2022
📺 @espn#NCAAWVB pic.twitter.com/4LjCvx6vhp
The season that this team has put together is nothing short of incredible and should be celebrated. This program is only just getting started.