The O’Connor Eagles (30-2) varsity volleyball team from Phoenix, AZ, will host a home playoff match against the Hamilton Huskies (24-15) from Chandler, AZ, on Tuesday, November 12 at 6 p.m. This game is part of the “2024 AIA State Girls Volleyball Championships (Arizona) – Conference 6A” tournament.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Arizona High School Volleyball
Who: O’Connor vs Hamilton
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 6 PM
Bracket: 2024 AIA State Girls Volleyball Championships (Arizona) – Conference 6A
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Game preview: O’Connor vs Hamilton
As the Arizona high school volleyball playoffs heat up, all eyes are on the much-anticipated rematch between the Hamilton Huskies and O’Connor Eagles. Set for Tuesday, November 12, at O’Connor’s home court, this matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle as Hamilton aims to avenge its previous loss to the top-ranked O’Connor team. Here’s an in-depth look at how these two teams stack up.
Season Overview
Hamilton (24-15) and O’Connor (30-2) have both had impressive seasons, but their records reveal different journeys. While Hamilton holds a respectable .615 win percentage, O’Connor’s season has been dominant, boasting a .938 win percentage and an unbeaten section record (8-0). Hamilton’s 7-1 section record is impressive but pales in comparison to O’Connor’s unblemished record.
In head-to-head competition, O’Connor defeated Hamilton decisively in a tournament on August 31, winning 2-0 with scores of 25-16 and 25-15. Since then, both teams have grown, and Hamilton will be aiming to pull off an upset on the road.
Team Scoring & Averages
Hamilton and O’Connor exhibit strong scoring abilities, especially in sets one through four. However, O’Connor maintains an edge, averaging 23.9 to 25 points across the first four sets compared to Hamilton’s consistent 22-point range. In terms of wins, O’Connor also averages 2.4 points more per match, underscoring their relentless offensive prowess.
Key Stats and Team Leaders
Both teams feature standout players, with Hamilton’s Raegan Richardson leading with 364 kills, closely followed by O’Connor’s Devyn Wiest, who has 375 kills. In blocking, Hamilton’s Anna Williams holds a slight edge over O’Connor’s Kristen Sheehy (90 to 85 blocks), indicating Hamilton’s defensive strengths.
On the service line, O’Connor has a clear advantage with Wiest delivering 51 aces this season compared to Hamilton’s Hailey Johnston’s 43. The Eagles also show depth in digs and assists, led by Anabelle Cummings and Addison France, who exceed their Hamilton counterparts by narrower but critical margins.
Common Opponents
When comparing common opponents, O’Connor shines with an 11-2 record, whereas Hamilton stands at 6-8. O’Connor has consistently bested strong teams such as Sunnyslope, Highland, and Corona del Sol, while Hamilton struggled against several of these same teams earlier in the season. However, Hamilton has shown resilience by securing wins against Casteel, Chandler, and Highland late in the season, highlighting their growth and potential to perform under pressure.
Matchup Outlook
Hamilton enters as the underdog, but their tenacity and experience against top teams could play in their favor. They have a deeper pool of receptions (2020) compared to O’Connor’s 1311, which may help them weather O’Connor’s aggressive serving.
O’Connor’s advantage in serving, home-court dominance (9-1), and a winning streak of 30-2 overall place them as clear favorites. Hamilton, however, has momentum in recent games and has proven capable of adjusting to formidable opponents.
Prediction
Hamilton has the skill and resilience to keep the match close, but O’Connor’s consistent dominance this season suggests they’re well-prepared to clinch another victory. The Eagles’ well-rounded offense, strong serving, and home-court advantage make them the likely favorites, but Hamilton’s defensive tenacity and playoff spirit could make this a thrilling and competitive playoff clash.
