The Big West Women’s Volleyball Notebook: Final Tune-Ups of Non-Conference Action

What to Watch For

As the non-conference schedule winds down, teams are making their final preparations for Big West play. Here are a few things to watch for in the coming week: * **Can UC Santa Barbara extend its winning streak?** The Gauchos have won four straight matches and will look to make it five when they host Loyola Marymount on Tuesday. UCSB is led by senior outside hitter Lindsey Ruddins, who is averaging 4.22 kills per set. * **Will UC Davis continue its hot start?** The Aggies are 5-2 this season, including a win over Pac-12 foe Oregon State. UC Davis will be tested this week when it travels to face No. 15 Creighton on Friday. * **How will Hawai'i fare against a pair of ranked opponents?** The Rainbow Wahine will host No. 25 BYU on Wednesday and No. 10 Washington on Saturday. Hawai'i is 4-3 this season, but has yet to face a ranked opponent.

Players to Watch

* **Lindsey Ruddins, UC Santa Barbara:** The senior outside hitter is averaging 4.22 kills per set and is a key reason for the Gauchos' success this season. * **Aurea Cruz, UC Davis:** The junior outside hitter is averaging 3.89 kills per set and is one of the most dynamic players in the Big West. * **Amber Igiede, Hawai'i:** The sophomore middle blocker is averaging 3.11 kills per set and is a force at the net for the Rainbow Wahine.

Teams to Watch

* **UC Santa Barbara:** The Gauchos are 7-2 this season and have won four straight matches. UCSB is led by senior outside hitter Lindsey Ruddins and is a contender for the Big West title. * **UC Davis:** The Aggies are 5-2 this season and have a big win over Pac-12 foe Oregon State. UC Davis is led by junior outside hitter Aurea Cruz and is a dark horse contender in the Big West. * **Hawai'i:** The Rainbow Wahine are 4-3 this season and have yet to face a ranked opponent. Hawai'i is led by sophomore middle blocker Amber Igiede and is a contender for the Big West title.