Women's Volleyball | 8/26/2026 3:59:00 PM
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky State women's volleyball set to open 2026 campaign at home as they host the KSU Invitational, Aug. 28-29 at Bell Gym.
The Thorobreds will face Young Harris and Shawnee State on Friday, Aug. 28, before closing the invite on Saturday, Aug. 29, with matches against Kentucky Wesleyan and Georgetown.
KSU Invitational Schedule
Friday, Aug. 28
11 a.m. – Kentucky State vs Young Harris | WATCH
1 p.m. – Shawnee State vs Kentucky Wesleyan
3 p.m. – Young Harris vs Georgetown
5 p.m. – Kentucky State vs Shawnee State | WATCH
7 p.m. – Georgetown vs Kentucky Wesleyan
Saturday, Aug. 29
9 a.m. – Shawnee State vs Young Harris
11 a.m. – Kentucky State vs Georgetown | WATCH
1 p.m. – Young Harris vs Kentucky Wesleyan
3 p.m. – Shawnee State vs Georgetown
5 p.m. – Kentucky State vs Kentucky Wesleyan | WATCH
A NEW DEFENSE INTENSITY
Kentucky State entered preseason camp emphasizing defensive consistency, communication and its ability to extend rallies. Those areas will be tested quickly during a weekend in which the Thorobreds will play four opponents over approximately 30 hours.
The condensed schedule will require Kentucky State to make adjustments between matches while maintaining its energy and execution. It will also give Jones and his staff an early look at the team's rotations, serve-receive combinations, and depth.
The Thorobreds return a strong foundation last season while welcoming four freshmen and a junior Division I transfer. Their ability to blend those newcomers into the rotation could help determine how quickly Kentucky State finds its rhythm.
WHEATON LEADS THE WAY
Junior middle blocker
Laila Wheaton enters the opener after earning a spot on the 2026 All-SIAC Preseason First Team.
Wheaton recorded more than 200 kills, 44 service aces, and 80 total blocks during the 2025 season. Her ability to impact matches the net and the service line gives Kentucky State an experienced presence around which it can build.
The Thorobreds will also look for production throughout the lineup as several returning players enter the season with significant collegiate experience. With four matches on the schedule, Kentucky State's depth could become one of its greatest assets.
WHAT TO WATCH
First-contact consistency will be important throughout the weekend. Kentucky State's ability to control serve receive and turn defensive plays into quality offensive opportunities will help establish the pace of each match.
The Thorobreds will also look to create pressure from the service line. Kentucky State produced 218 aces last season, and aggressive serving could help the team disrupt opposing offenses and generate scoring runs.
At the net, Wheaton and the Kentucky State front row will be challenged to limit clean swings and create transition opportunities for the offense.
Follow KSU Sports
For complete coverage of Kentucky State Athletics, follow the Thorobreds on social media @KYSUAthletics (X), @ksuthletics (Instagram), Kentucky State Athletics (Facebook) or visit the official home of Kentucky State Athletics at ksuthorobreds.com.
###
