Casanova comes in clutch for LOVB Salt Lake in season opener

© Athletes Unlimited, LLC 2024
Alex Jean Glover
Jan 15, 2025

The highly anticipated inaugural season of League One Volleyball (LOVB) kicked off with a bang last week, headlined by an exciting victory from LOVB Salt Lake over LOVB Atlanta.

The league features 15 Athletes Unlimited Pro Volleyball players with LOVB Salt Lake possessing the most AU Pro athletes of any team — a fitting advantage for their dominating performance.

The first match in League One history took place in front of a sold-out crowd and delivered an unforgettable showcase of professional volleyball in the United States. The competition was fierce, the power was undeniable, and the quality of play was second to none.

To go with an exceptional debut were standout performances from AU Pro Volleyball stars Heydi Casanova and Manami Kojima, a dynamic duo poised to cause headaches for opponents throughout the season.

Opposite Casanova led the charge offensively, tying the team-high with 20 kills while hitting an impressive .341. She also contributed 13 digs for an all-around impact on the game. Two-time Olympic medalist and teammate Jordyn Poulter praised Casanova’s fearless play.

Heidy’s biggest weapon for us is power. She was able to get us big points and take courageous swings in key moments,” Poulter said.

 

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One of those pivotal moments came in the second set, with Atlanta at set point. Casanova’s clutch attack tied the score at 24-24, shifting the momentum in Salt Lake’s favor and setting the stage for their eventual 27-25 win in the set. Her ability to deliver in high-pressure situations sets her apart and can allow her teammates to trust her in the team’s crucial moments.

Complementing Casanova’s offensive efforts was Japanese libero Manami Kojima, who set the tone for Salt Lake’s defense. Kojima’s perfect performance in serve receive (100% on nine attempts) and her relentless effort led to 15 digs and three assists. Her steady defensive presence kept Salt Lake grounded and poised under pressure, proving why she’s one of the best liberos in the game.

LOVB Salt Lake will shift attention to their next match against LOVB Madison on Friday, January 17th, in Madison, Wisconsin. Fans can catch the action live on ESPNU, where seven Athletes Unlimited players will be featured.

LOVB Salt Lake:

  •   Tori Dixon
  •   Dani Drews
  •   Claire Hoffman
  •   Heidy Casanova
  •   Manami Kojima
  •   Mary Lake

LOVB Madison:

  •   Temi Thomas Ailara

 

Alex Jean Glover is a former collegiate volleyball player and multi-sport reporter, serving as a correspondent for Athletes Unlimited. You can follow her on Instagram @alexjeannnn.