ChompTalk.com

The Florida Gators Volleyball team hosted round one of the 2023 NCAA tournament Thursday. The team hosted in-state opponent Florida Gulf Coast at the O’Connell Center. The Gators came out ready put their talents on display in front of the home crowd as they cruised to a 3-0 sweep.

In set one, UF made an early statement with a commanding 25-18 victory. The team continued to apply the pressure in the second set as they cruised to a 25-17 win. In the third and final set, the Gators slammed the door shut on FGCU as they completed the sweep after dominating the last set 25-17.

Florida was led offensively by Kennedy Martin with 14 kills and Sofia Victoria following her lead with 11 kills. Gabrielle Essix rounded out the Gators attack as she recorded eight kills of her own.

On the defensive side of the net, the team put on an impressive performance. AC Fitzpatrick led the defense with five blocks. Nnedi Okammor and Essix also had strong performances on defense posting a combined seven blocks between the two.

The Florida backcourt was held down by Elli McKissock. In the senior’s final home game at the O’Dome she tallied 20 digs. Emily Canaan chipped in six digs of her own and Martin added 11.

Kennedy Muff facilitated the Gators offense at a high level all night long. The fifth year dished out 36 assists which was good enough for a match high.

The Gators will now play host to Georgia Tech in second round of the NCAA tournament on Friday. First serve is slated for 7 p.m. from Exactech arena in Gainesville, Florida.