The U.S. Women’s National Team just kicked off their 2025 FIVB World Championship journey with flair. A 3-1 win against Slovenia is just what the doctor ordered.
SKINNER SISTERS STEAL THE SHOW
Avery and Madisen Skinner were nothing short of electric. Avery tallied 15 points with 14 kills, while Madisen added 13 points. These sisters are more than just hype—they're the real deal.
“We got a lot of help from a lot of players,” head coach Erik Sullivan shared, and you could feel it. The U.S. took down Slovenia 25-23, 17-25, 25-22, 25-14, but it wasn't just a walk in the park.
SLOVENIA PUSHES BACK
Slovenia came ready. They out-blocked the U.S. 10-5 and served up more aces, 7-4. But they couldn't capitalize on that edge, making 30 errors to the U.S.'s 17. Sarah Franklin chipped in with 10 points and was clutch with seven receptions.
TURNING POINT MOMENTS
The real flip happened late in the first set. Jordyn Poulter's dig and perfect set to Madi Skinner was poetry in motion. That moment? Game-changer. Slovenia tied it 22-22, but Franklin answered back. This is where it changed.
DEFENSIVE DOMINANCE
The U.S. defense wasn't just there to spectate. Morgan Hentz and Lexi Rodriguez were solid, with Hentz leading the team with eight digs. Chiaka Ogbogu made her international debut count with eight points, adding a block and her experience to the mix.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Next up, Argentina. They’ve got their own 1-0 record, so expect fireworks on Sunday. The U.S. will need to bring more aggression and clean up those errors if they want to keep this momentum going.
And from there… it was over.
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Source: USA Volleyball
