The Westlake (Austin, TX) varsity volleyball team will face Fulshear (TX) in a neutral playoff match today at 6:30 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 UIL Texas Volleyball State Championships – 2024 Volleyball Conference 6A D1 tournament.
Westlake vs Fulshear Volleyball Game Info:
What: Texas High School Volleyball
Who: Westlake vs Fulshear
When: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Bracket: 2024 UIL Texas Volleyball State Championships – 2024 Volleyball Conference 6A Division 1
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Game preview: Westlake vs Fulshear
As the 2024-25 volleyball season heats up, Fulshear and Westlake are two teams that have stood out with impressive records and competitive performances. The battle between these two elite programs is one of the most anticipated matchups in the state, and both teams have earned their spots as top contenders in their respective divisions.
Team Overview
Fulshear, boasting a 38-6 overall record, has been an unstoppable force in the 2024-25 season. The team has a perfect 10-0 district record and is 18-4 when playing away from home. Their dominant performances both at home and on the road speak volumes about their consistency and high level of play. In terms of overall performance, Fulshear has shown remarkable strength, with a win percentage of .864 and an outstanding 1.000 district win percentage.
In contrast, Westlake, with a record of 32-17, has been a formidable opponent throughout the season. The team sits at 9-3 in district play and has been successful on neutral ground with an 11-2 record. Their overall win percentage of .653, although lower than Fulshear’s, still highlights their ability to compete at the highest levels. Westlake’s district win percentage of .750 is a testament to their consistency in the highly competitive environment of Texas volleyball.
Head-to-Head: Fulshear Takes the Win
The two teams met earlier in the season in a highly anticipated matchup, and it was Fulshear that came out on top, securing a 2-1 victory over Westlake. The match, held on August 29, 2024, saw Fulshear win the first and third sets with scores of 25-18 and 25-21, respectively, while Westlake took the second set 25-16. This victory gave Fulshear the upper hand in the head-to-head record for the season, with a 1-0 advantage.
Team Stat Comparison
When comparing team stats, Fulshear holds a slight edge in several key categories. They have accumulated 1843 kills compared to Westlake’s 1632 and also lead in total blocks (129 to 300 for Westlake). However, Westlake is slightly ahead in assists, totaling 1575, while Fulshear has 1672.
Both teams have been strong in serving, with Fulshear earning 320 serving aces and Westlake not far behind with 319. On defense, Fulshear has a solid 2491 digs, just ahead of Westlake’s 2319. Receptions are close, with Fulshear recording 2186 and Westlake at 2212.
Key Players to Watch
For Fulshear, Bailey Warren has been the standout player, leading the team with 551 kills. Other key contributors include Sydney Black, who leads in serving aces (55) and digs (674), and Arayah Watson, who has been a force at the net with 71 total blocks.
Westlake’s Chloe Kelly has been a star for the team, recording 400 kills and 57 serving aces. Mallory Weyand, with 606 digs, and Trinity Johnston, who has 706 assists, are also crucial to Westlake’s success.
Common Opponents: A Strong Schedule for Both Teams
Both teams have faced a tough slate of opponents, including teams like Tomball, Reagan, and Austin. Fulshear has posted a 5-1 record against common opponents, while Westlake is just behind with a 4-2 mark. These games against mutual opponents have tested both teams’ abilities, and the results show that both squads have navigated these challenges well.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications
As the season progresses, both teams are primed for deep playoff runs. Fulshear has demonstrated their dominance, particularly in the postseason, where they remain undefeated at 4-0 in playoff games. Westlake, though with a more modest 4-0 playoff record, is no stranger to high-pressure situations and will certainly be a threat in the postseason.
With both teams excelling in various aspects of the game, the next meeting between Fulshear and Westlake promises to be a thrilling encounter. The balance of offense and defense from each side ensures that every match between these two powerhouses will be one to watch as they continue to battle for supremacy in Texas volleyball.
Conclusion
Fulshear and Westlake have emerged as two of the most exciting teams in Texas high school volleyball this season. Both have impressive records, and their head-to-head matchup highlighted the intensity and skill both teams bring to the court. As the playoffs approach, expect these teams to continue to shine and push for a state title. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: the rivalry between Fulshear and Westlake is one that will continue to captivate fans throughout the state.