As the Kentucky State women’s volleyball team gears up for the 2024 season, intensity continues to rise under the direction of first-year head coach Keith Jones. The season opens with a scrimmage against Kentucky Wesleyan on August 28th at 6:30 p.m. in Owensboro, Kentucky. Coach Jones has been impressed with the surge in performance, particularly from the new additions to the roster. “I’ve loved to see the intensity and the work ethic from our team. We’ve got a handful of new players that I think have brought in some good energy. And with the returning girls coming back, everybody’s just ready to go and turn the season into something special,” Jones remarked.
Jones has bolstered the team with the addition of graduate transfers from Johnson C. Smith, Camri Goodwin and Randi Neal. Goodwin had a standout 2023 season, recording a season-high 25 kills, 28.5 points, 16 digs, and three blocks against Claflin on October 23. Neal also shined in the same match, posting a season-high nine kills and 11 points, along with a season-high four digs against Benedict on September 12.
The Thorobreds will also benefit from the return of key players like middle blocker Leah Tubbs, who led the team last season with 22 solo blocks and 50 block assists. Additionally, Timaia Sugars, the team leader in kills (223) and points (242.5) from the previous season, and Kentucky native Justice Mudd, who recorded 151 digs in 2023, will rejoin the lineup.
Kentucky State will kick off their regular season against in-state opponent Asbury on September 4th at 6 p.m. in Wilmore, Kentucky.
