Key SEMO Players to Watch in the Ohio Valley Conference Championship Tournament

With an impressive overall record of 18-12 and a dominant 15-3 mark in OVC play, the Redhawks enter the OVC Volleyball Championship Tournament as the top seed. SEMO has a flawless 7-0 record in tournament games when ranked number one, a streak that dates back to 1998. To maintain this perfect record, the Redhawks will rely on standout performances from several key players.

Nina Schuberth

Sophomore libero Nina Schuberth is a must-watch player in the OVC Championship Tournament due to her exceptional defensive abilities and consistent performance throughout the season. Named the 2024 OVC Defensive Player of the Year, Schuberth has continued to impress by leading the conference in digs with a remarkable 448 over 71 sets played, averaging a league-high 6.31 digs per set—107 more than the next closest player. Her ability to cover the court, anticipate opponents' attacks, and consistently deliver key defensive plays makes her an indispensable part of her team's success. With five Defensive Player of the Week awards in 2024, including the final week of the regular season, Schuberth’s leadership and skills will be crucial for the Redhawks in their quest for a championship.

Abby Johnson

Graduate student Johnson, a 6’5" All-OVC Second Team standout, is a key player to watch in the OVC Championship Tournament. She started 17 of 18 conference matches, finishing second on her team in kills with 195, averaging 2.75 kills per set, while also contributing 57 total blocks for a solid 0.80 blocks-per-set ratio. Johnson’s well-rounded performance has made her a reliable two-way force, tallying 229 points this season at 3.23 points per set. With 666 career kills from her time at Bradley and 326 more this season, she’s just eight kills away from reaching the 1,000-career mark. Her blend of experience, skill, and consistency makes her a crucial factor in her team’s pursuit of the championship.

Lucy Arndt

Sophomore outside hitter Lucy Arndt is a standout player to watch in the OVC Championship Tournament, building on her stellar season and back-to-back All-OVC First Team selections. The 2023 OVC Freshman of the Year finished third in points during conference play with 294, nearly 100 more than the next closest competitor, while averaging an impressive 4.14 points per set. Arndt’s 256 kills, 17 service aces, and strong defensive stats—13 solo blocks and 16 block assists—highlight her all-around impact on the court. A former OVC Player of the Week this season, Arndt’s consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations make her a pivotal player in her team’s championship aspirations.