KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In a thrilling NCAA women’s volleyball semifinal, Eva Hudson propelled the No. 1 seed Kentucky Wildcats to victory over the No. 3 seed Wisconsin Badgers with a remarkable performance. Hudson’s career-high of 29 kills secured Kentucky’s place in the national championship match, showcasing her exceptional skill and determination.
With the match on the line in the fifth set, Hudson’s impact was undeniable. As her teammate Kassie O’Brien set the ball, Hudson leaped high above the net, delivering a powerful strike that left the Wisconsin defenders unable to respond. The sound of the ball hitting her palm echoed through the packed T-Mobile Center, marking a pivotal moment in a match that had seen both teams trading victories in earlier sets. Hudson’s shot sailed past the blockers, sealing the set and the match for the Wildcats, who now advance to face Texas A&M in the championship contest.
Hudson’s journey to this moment has been marked by significant achievements. Last year, she entered the transfer portal after a stellar three-season run at Purdue, where she led the Big Ten with 567 kills and was named the conference’s Freshman of the Year in 2022. After joining Kentucky, she quickly became a key player for the Wildcats, earning accolades such as SEC Player of the Year and SEC Newcomer of the Year. Her ability to perform under pressure has made her one of the top hitters in collegiate volleyball.
Under the guidance of head coach Craig Skinner, who led Kentucky to its first national title in 2020, Hudson has thrived. Skinner praised her dynamic attacking skills, noting, “She is an extremely talented player who adds a dynamic level of attacking to our offense.” Hudson’s presence has significantly enhanced the team’s performance, contributing to their impressive 30-2 season record.
Transforming Pressure into Joy
Despite the high stakes, Hudson has emphasized the importance of maintaining a joyful mindset throughout the tournament. To combat the pressure of expectations, she and her teammates began drawing smiley faces on their hands as a reminder to “play with joy.” This simple act helped reinforce their focus on the enjoyment of the game, even amidst the intensity of the semifinals.
“At the end of the day, it’s still a game,” Hudson said. “Some of the best times in volleyball are when we’re all playing with joy and bouncing off one another.” This philosophy proved effective as she rallied after a slow start against Wisconsin, turning the tide in her favor with critical kills that ultimately led to Kentucky’s victory.
Hudson’s resilience was particularly evident during the match. After facing a challenging first set, where the Wildcats suffered their largest margin of defeat since 2018, she looked down at her smiley face reminder and quickly regained her momentum, contributing to a crucial second-set win. Hudson recalled the encouragement shared among teammates during timeouts, as they would remind each other to “tap your smiley face” to stay positive.
In the decisive fourth set, Hudson found her rhythm, delivering nine kills that showcased her powerful hitting ability. Her mother, Stacey, watched from the sidelines, recognizing the determined expression Hudson makes when she is fully focused on the game. “My mom always says when I set my jaw, it’s a sign that I’m not going to let anything stop me,” Hudson explained.
As the match progressed into the final set, Hudson’s confidence radiated to her teammates. She shared a moment of connection with them, asserting, “I’ve got you. We’ve got this.” This sense of unity and assurance was pivotal as the Wildcats approached the championship match.
Looking Ahead to the Championship
With a national championship on the horizon, Hudson’s focus remains steadfast. She understands the significance of this opportunity, having prepared for it since her transfer to Kentucky. “I knew right off the bat, we had something special,” she stated, reflecting on the team’s chemistry and preparation.
As the Wildcats gear up to face Texas A&M, Hudson’s contributions and leadership will be crucial. Her journey from Purdue to Kentucky has not only been about individual accolades but also about fostering a strong team spirit that emphasizes joy and collaboration. With the championship title within reach, Hudson and her teammates are poised to make their mark in women’s college volleyball history.
