Pac12 | Washington volleyball’s Krista Vansant named Player of the Week yet again

Junior outside hitter named Pac-12’s best defensive player after victories over California and Stanford

Washington's Krista Vansant (arms raised) celebrates a point against Cal
-photo by Shutter Geeks Photography

For the third time this season—and the fifth time in her career—the Pac-12 Conference has named Washington’s Krista Vansant a Player of the Week.

Jenni Nogueras (1) , Krista Vansant and Jenna Orlandini
-Volleyblog Seattle photo by Leslie Hamann

This time, however, the award was a bit of surprise. Like most outside hitters, Vansant is known for her offense. She had 14 kills against California, and added 23 more against Stanford, both wins. But it was her defense that won this week’s honor—particularly her 14 digs against the Bears and 20 more against The Cardinal. Vansant had a solo block against Cal and two block assists against Stanford.

Coach Jim McLaughlin said Vansant also contributed great passing and serving. “I think it’s about being a good volleyball player. Good volleyball players can play defense. They can block, they can serve. They’re not one dimensional..

Arizona’s Madi Kingdon was named Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week, while Arizona’s Penina Snuka is Freshman of the Week.

In the latest AVCA coaches’ poll, Washington is ranked #3 in the nation. See also: What we learned from Washington volleyball’s win over Stanford.

---