Spartan earns Big Ten defensive honor

MSU volleyball junior Allyson Karaba was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week following her 52-dig effort this weekend at the Clemson Classic in Clemson, S.C.

Karaba was named to this weekend’s All-Tournament Team and was named MVP of the Cleveland State Invitational earlier in the season.

For the 11th time this season, Karaba recorded at least 10 digs in games this weekend.

Although she was a talented volleyball player in high school, Karaba said she credits her defensive skills to the people she’s been around at MSU.

“I was a hitter in high school, and I credit all my defensive skills and training to … all the coaches here,” Karaba said earlier this season. “I had no technique and I couldn’t dig the ball well when I started here. I think I got hit in the face more than any player they’ve ever had. I’ve learned discipline and that’s kind of what’s helped me.”

Karaba and her teammates will look to build off the momentum of a 12-0 start when they open Big Ten play Friday at Purdue. After traveling to Indiana Saturday, the Spartans finally will return home next weekend after 11 straight road matches.