The CU volleyball team was knocked out of the NCAA Tournament on Friday night by the defending champion, the Washington Huskies, at the Coors Events Center.
The Buffs were beaten in four games (15-30, 30-22, 26-30, 24-30). The team finished the season with an overall record of 17-12.
“I am really proud of the way we fought tonight. We got in as many long rallies in a match as I’ve seen us do all season,” Head Coach Pi’i Aiu said. “We came up a little short. We congratulate Washington. We congratulate the senior class.”
The loss to the Huskies marks the first loss for the Buffs when hosting the NCAA tournament.
Friday night’s game was the last for Amber and Ashley Nu’u, Lara Bossow, and Austin Zimmerman. Setter Ashley Nu’u was named to the first team of the All-Big 12 for this season.
“It’s difficult. I didn’t think it would be this difficult. I think it is because these girls are so awesome and amazing teammates. I think we left it all on the court tonight,” Ashley Nu’u said.
Ashley Nu’u and Austin Zimmerman had an outstanding presence on the court for the Buffs all year, so their departure will be difficult for the Buffs to compensate for.
“It’s going to be hard to replace these girls. I mean, each year it’s so hard to see all of them go. You have Ashley who is an amazing setter; she is going to go far. Austin just played her heart out,” said outside hitter Amber Sutherland.
The team played some incredible games this year, beating ranked teams Missouri, New Mexico State and No. 1 Nebraska.
“I’m going to miss this season. I ‘m going to miss this team a lot. They are a great bunch of kids. This is a team that wanted to play more volleyball,” Aiu said.
With only Ashley and Amber Nu’u, Austin Zimmerman, and Lara Bossow leaving, the team will have a lot of players returning next season.
Sutherland, who was an honorable mention for the All-Big 12 squad, will have to step up next year and lead the Buffs. She will have some help from middle blocker Lauren Schaefer, who was also an honorable mention for the All-Big 12 team.
“Yes, I’m looking forward to next year. We are excited about it. Obviously, we have some big shoes to fill,” Aiu said.
