In her second week as a member of the Missouri Tigers, junior middle blocker Lauren Larkin demonstrated her value as one of the most significant offseason additions from the transfer portal. Larkin, who joined Mizzou from Utah State, played a crucial role in the team’s offense during their recent match against Oregon.
In a challenging four-set encounter, Larkin delivered a standout performance, recording a team-high 14 kills along with four blocks. This impressive showing marked her second consecutive match leading the Tigers in scoring, continuing the momentum she built last season at Utah State, where she boasted an impressive .408 hitting percentage.
The 6-foot-2 middle blocker was a key target for setter Nina Mandovic throughout the match, consistently exploiting gaps in Oregon’s defensive formation. Larkin’s most significant contributions came during the opening set, where her quick-tempo attacks helped propel Missouri to a remarkable .565 hitting percentage, allowing the Tigers to seize an early 1-0 lead in the match.
After the match, Larkin expressed her appreciation for her teammates, stating, “I think just keep doing what we’re doing. And big shout outs to my passers and my setters because I wouldn’t be able to get so many kills without them.” This acknowledgment highlights the importance of teamwork in achieving individual success on the court.
Defensively, Larkin was equally effective, contributing four blocks, which ranked second on the team behind her middle partner Eva Smith. Her defensive efforts were instrumental in disrupting Oregon’s potent offensive threats, helping to keep the match competitive through each set.
Although the Tigers ultimately lost to the Ducks in four sets, Larkin’s performance is indicative of her potential to significantly enhance Missouri's offensive capabilities as the season progresses. Her combination of offensive firepower and defensive skill suggests that she will be a pivotal player for the Tigers moving forward.
Leave a Comment