After a disheartening loss to Texas Tech, the ISU volleyball squad is in need of an uplifting win, but it won’t come easily. The Cyclones will travel to Columbia, Mo., on Wednesday to get their chance at the Tigers, who are no stranger to volleyball success.

A regular finisher in the top four of the Big 12, Missouri currently ranks first in the conference with 15.97 assists and 17.76 kills per game.

ISU head coach Linda Crum said the Tigers’ serving and ball handling will be threats.

“They are a good team and can run a faster offense, which creates more one-on-one situations for blockers and defenders,” she said.

“Their setter is very good and will run fast.”

The Tigers’ setter, junior Lindsey Hunter, is ranked seventh in the nation with 13.95 assists a game.

Junior outside hitter Shen Danru has been averaging 4.31 kills per game. Another threat for Missouri will be sophomore hitter Nicole Wilson, who leads the Big 12 in hitting percentage with a .429 clip, averaging 2.86 kills per game.

The Cyclones will also face back-row dominance from freshman libero Tatum Ailes, who scrapes up 3.95 digs per game.

Last year’s Big 12 Freshman of the Year, Merrill native Jessica Vander Kooi, consistently racks up double-double matches for the Tigers as she averages 3.73 kills and 3.19 digs per game.

Crum said Missouri’s strong program makes up for it having a young team this year.

“Their older players have been very successful, and they have lots of maturity and stability,” she said.

Some clashing chemistry on the court against Texas Tech had Crum re-evaluating her lineup, which was put through the gantlet in practice.

Crum created competition for all team positions, which, she said, can only make individuals — and the team — better.

“We needed to stir the pot a little,” she said.

“We have to become more solid together and solid in our roles.”

Passing and consistency from all hitters will again be on top of the Cyclones’ agenda Wednesday night.

Another reappearing factor, aggressive serving, will also need to make a bold statement, Crum said.

“We just have to show up and put ourselves in a position to win,” she said. “It is a very feasible goal.”