The Decatur (TX) varsity volleyball team will play a home playoff match against Celina (TX) today at 8:30 PM. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Volleyball State Championships – 2024 Volleyball Conference 4A Division 1 tournament.

Decatur vs Celina Volleyball Game Info:

What: Texas High School Volleyball
Who: Decatur vs Celina
When: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Time: 8:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Volleyball State Championships – 2024 Volleyball Conference 4A Division 1
Watch here: Watch here

Game preview: Decatur vs Celina

The 2024-2025 volleyball season has seen two teams rise to prominence in their respective divisions: the Celina Bobcats and the Decatur Eagles. Both teams have enjoyed impressive seasons, and their rivalry has reached new heights as they continue to compete for regional dominance. With contrasting records and strengths, the matchup between Celina and Decatur promises to be a thrilling encounter, particularly as they head into the playoffs.

Team Overview

Celina (24-25):

• Record: 25-14 overall, 8-4 in district play
• Home: 8-3 | Away: 6-5 | Neutral: 11-6
• Win Percentage: .641 | District Win Percentage: .667
• Kills: 1,336 | Assists: 1,297 | Digs: 2,150
• Serving Aces: 176 | Total Blocks: 253

The Celina Bobcats have shown solid performances this season, with a competitive 8-4 district record. However, their results in away games have shown room for improvement, with a slightly underwhelming 6-5 record. Leading the charge for Celina are players like Kennedy Hangartner with 350 kills and Paitlynn Martin, contributing 477 digs and 749 receptions. These players have been pivotal in Celina’s success this season, especially in their victories over teams like Krum and Eagle Mountain.

Decatur (24-25):

• Record: 30-13 overall, 12-2 in district play
• Home: 12-3 | Away: 12-2 | Neutral: 6-8
• Win Percentage: .698 | District Win Percentage: .857
• Kills: Not listed for Decatur | Assists: 684 | Digs: 2,010
• Serving Aces: Not listed for Decatur | Total Blocks: Not listed for Decatur

Decatur enters the match with an even stronger record than Celina, boasting a 12-2 district mark. The Eagles have proven to be a formidable force, particularly at home and on the road, where they maintain an excellent 12-2 record. Their high district win percentage of .857 highlights their dominance within their region. Players like Alex Farrow, who has racked up 684 assists, and Paitlynn Martin, a top performer in digs and receptions, have been essential in Decatur’s success this season.

Head-to-Head Comparison

The most recent head-to-head matchup occurred on August 13, 2024, when Decatur defeated Celina in a 3-1 victory. The set scores were as follows: Celina (25-13, 15-19, 13-25, 19-25) and Decatur (12-25, 25-13, 25-13, 25-19). This win not only added to Decatur’s growing momentum but also gave them a psychological edge in their upcoming encounters.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced common opponents, though with varying outcomes. For instance:

• Krum: Celina defeated Krum 3-0, while Decatur battled Krum to a 3-2 win.
• Eagle Mountain: Celina faced a tough loss to Eagle Mountain 3-2, while Decatur dominated the series, with a 3-0 win and two 3-1 victories over Eagle Mountain.

These matchups highlight the differences in performance between the two teams against similarly ranked opponents. Decatur’s ability to win decisive matches has been key to their successful district campaign.

Key Players to Watch

• Kennedy Hangartner (Celina): With 350 kills, Hangartner has been a major offensive threat for Celina. Her ability to attack the ball and create scoring opportunities will be crucial for Celina’s success against a tough Decatur team.
• Paitlynn Martin (Celina): Martin, with 477 digs and 749 receptions, plays a critical role in defense and transition play. Her steady contributions in the backcourt are pivotal for Celina, especially in high-pressure matches.
• Alex Farrow (Decatur): As the team’s leader in assists (684), Farrow’s ability to set up her teammates and control the tempo of the game makes her one of Decatur’s key assets. Her court vision and playmaking will be tested against Celina’s strong defense.

Playoff Picture

As both teams enter the playoffs, the competition intensifies. Celina and Decatur have each proven themselves against a range of opponents, and the next stage of their rivalry promises to be just as compelling. With Celina holding an impressive home record and Decatur performing exceptionally well away, both teams are poised to make a strong push in the postseason.

Celina will need to capitalize on their home-court advantage, while Decatur, with a powerful district performance, will look to carry their momentum forward. With a combined 55 wins between them and an array of standout performances from key players, the matchup between Celina and Decatur promises to be one of the most exciting in the region.

Conclusion

In what is shaping up to be a highly anticipated playoff run, the clash between Celina and Decatur showcases the best of Texas high school volleyball. Both teams have earned their place among the top contenders in the state, and with talent on both sides, it will be fascinating to see who will come out on top as they battle for supremacy.