DURHAM, N.H. – It’s an exciting time in Durham, the 2022 UNH Wildcats are heading back to the playoffs. The path was far from easy. UNH enters the playoffs on a 4-game win streak, knocking off consecutive American East opponents. Their most recent win came on senior day against NJIT in a 3-set sweep. The Wildcats have hit their stride at the perfect time, because as recently as 3 weeks ago, the Wildcats playoff hopes appeared to be in jeopardy. The Wildcats were 14-9 overall, and more importantly 2-4 in their conference games. With their backs up against the wall, the Wildcats gutted out close contests with Bryant, UMBC and UAlbany before a decisive victory against NJIT to wrap up the regular season.

While the Wildcats have a lot to be proud of for their .667 regular season winning percentage and 6-4 record against American East opponents, they have so much more to accomplish in the postseason. The Wildcats opening round opponent is against the Binghamton Bearcats, who finished their season with a .708 and an impressive 8-2 record in conference play. The Bearcats beat the Wildcats in their two previous games this season. The good news for the Wildcats? Their second game was far more competitive than their first. The Wildcats suffered losses in consecutive sets in their October 2nd matchup, despite close scores throughout the game. In their rematch two weeks later, the Wildcats battled their way to a fifth and deciding set, which they unfortunately came up just short. Despite their 0-2 regular season record against them, the Wildcats have been very competitive. The Wildcats are back in action- possibly for the last time, this Saturday at 1PM.

With the regular season coming to an end, it is time to give props to the statistical leaders for the Wildcats this season, starting with offensive statistics. Hannah Serbousek led the team in kills with 206. Wren Macaulay led the way with 402 assists, over 150 more than the next closest teammate. Service aces were led by Avery Lepore with 27. Moving on to defensive statistics, Mia Pagliarini was the team leader with 266. Finally, the block category, Kara Oxenknecht recorded 104.00.