KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In a thrilling semifinal match at the NCAA women’s volleyball tournament, Eva Hudson led the Kentucky Wildcats to a decisive victory over the Wisconsin Badgers. The match, held at the T-Mobile Center, showcased Hudson’s remarkable talent as she recorded a career-high 29 kills, propelling her team to a spot in the national championship against Texas A&M.
As the fifth set reached match point, Hudson soared into the air, delivering a powerful spike that Wisconsin could not block. The ball sailed out of bounds off the Badgers’ defense, igniting a wave of celebration among the Wildcats and their fans. This victory marked a significant achievement for Kentucky, who had previously secured wins in the second and fourth sets, setting the stage for their championship clash.
Hudson’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. After dominating the Big Ten with 567 kills during the 2024 season, she entered the transfer portal following three successful years at Purdue University. The Wildcats welcomed her with open arms, and she soon became an integral part of the team, fulfilling her ambition to compete for a national title.
Throughout her time at Purdue, Hudson earned accolades such as the Big Ten Freshman of the Year in 2022 and was named to the American Volleyball Coaches’ Association All-America team in 2023. Recognizing her immense potential, Kentucky head coach Craig Skinner noted, “She is an extremely talented player who adds a dynamic level of attacking to our offense.”
Hudson’s transition to Kentucky proved successful as she quickly established herself as one of the top hitters in the nation. With 533 kills and an average of 4.595 kills per set, she earned multiple honors, including the SEC Player of the Year and SEC Newcomer of the Year. Her performance has not only contributed to the team’s impressive 30-2 record but also positioned her as a finalist for the 2025 AVCA Player of the Year Award.
Finding Joy in the Game
Despite the high stakes of the semifinals, Hudson has emphasized the importance of enjoying the game. To combat the pressure, she and her teammates began drawing smiley faces on their hands as a reminder to “play with joy.” Hudson stated, “Some of the best times in volleyball and when we’re really playing well is when we’re all playing with joy and bouncing off one another.”
The pressure was palpable at the start of the match against Wisconsin. After dropping the first set, Hudson looked at the smiley face on her hand, which sparked a comeback. She quickly rallied, delivering four critical kills that helped secure Kentucky’s victory in the second set.
Hudson’s determination shone through in the fourth set, where she executed nine kills, showcasing her prowess on the court. Reflecting on her performance, she acknowledged, “By the fourth and fifth, we found that rhythm… just swinging away. I knew my people behind me were covering.”
Her mother, Stacey Hudson, who watched from the sidelines, noted a noticeable shift in her daughter’s demeanor during the game. “My mom always says when I set my jaw, it’s a sign that I’m not going to let anything stop me,” Hudson shared. This intensity resonated with her teammates, encouraging them to rally together.
Looking Ahead to the Championship
As Kentucky prepares for the national championship, Hudson remains focused on the task at hand. She has fostered a strong bond with her teammates, stating, “I knew right off the bat, we had something special. Now, it’s down to the execution.”
Hudson’s leadership and skill have not only contributed to her team’s success but also instilled confidence in her fellow players. As the Wildcats gear up for their final match, Hudson’s mantra of joy and teamwork will undoubtedly be a driving force in their pursuit of the national title.
With just one game left to claim the championship, Hudson is determined to make her mark on the sport. As she prepares for the showdown against Texas A&M, the world will be watching to see if Hudson and the Wildcats can clinch the title and etch their names into NCAA history.
