In their second matchup against their in-state rivals, the No. 24 BYU Cougars will play the Utah Utes — this time with the homecourt advantage Wednesday night at Smith Fieldhouse.
The Cougars lost in a tight five-set match against the Utes in their last game on Nov. 14.
Wednesday will not only be a night of rivalry but also a night of recognizing graduating seniors. Cougar Nation will honor their three seniors after the game — middle blocker Elena Wallace; setter Macy Marshall; and libero Hannah Billeter.
Wallace transferred to BYU after two seasons at Tennessee Tech as well as two seasons at Salt Lake Community College. She recorded 90 kills and 51 total blocks with the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles.
“Elena is everything a coach hopes for–hard-working, competitive, and the ultimate team player," said coach Heather Olmstead. "Whenever we needed her, she stepped up without hesitation and gave her all. Her commitment, selflessness, and steady humility made our program better every day. I’m so grateful Elena joined us for her final year."
Marshall played two seasons at Snow College then later played a year at Southern Utah University where she led the Thunderbirds with 778 assists and 27 aces.
“Macy has been a player that has brought a quiet confidence to our gym. She shows up every day ready to work and her effort, attitude, and commitment over these two years have meant a great deal to our program. I’m so grateful for Macy and that she came to BYU,” Olmstead said.
Billeter has been with the Cougars for all four years of play and is a two-time Fall Academic All-Big 12 First Team. She finished fourth in the Big 12 for aces with 42 in 2024. She also tallied 155 digs and 36 assists, both good for fourth most. After only playing in three matches in the 2022 season, she started the last 23 matches of the 2023 season.
“One of the things I love about Hannah is that she always shows up, works hard, and gives her best," Olmstead said. "Her commitment and quiet determination have been a meaningful part of our program. I’ve seen her grow in resilience and confidence, and I am grateful she’s been a BYU Cougar these past four years.”
These three seniors have each brought something to the BYU women’s volleyball team and they will be remembered by both the team and Cougar Nation.
The last time BYU and Utah met up on Nov. 14, the Utes won a historic reverse sweep over BYU. Both teams are coming off upset wins over No. 13 Kansas.
Both teams are looking for a win in this rivalry, but a victory for BYU would feel even sweeter for the three seniors who will be leaving after this season.
This match will begin on at 6 p.m. MST and will be broadcast on ESPN+.