On the morning the volleyball Cougars prepare for the MPSF semifinals, outside hitter Taylor Sander and middle blocker Futi Tavana have been named First-Team All-Americans by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. Sander is second nationally with 4.8 kills per set, while Tavana's 1.6 blocks per set also ranks second nationally. Sander, a sophomore, is already a two-time All-American first teamer.
BYU's All-Americans prepare to face Stanford tonight in the MPSF tournament.
The Cougars faced Stanford twice in early February and got roasted by a total of six sets to one, but were playing without Sander who was out with a broken left hand. No doubt the "Sandblaster" -- the new nickname with which I have dubbed Sander, a more descriptive take on his last name and style of play than the current "Sandman" -- will make an impact. It is almost assured the Cougars must win tonight to have any chance at making the national tournament.
The match starts at 6:00 pm MT and will air live from Los Angeles on BYUtv.