![Head coach Hugh McCutcheon gives advice to Gophers volleyball super freshman Stephanie Samedy who has had an immediate impact on the team.]Richard Tsong-Taatarii ï richard.tsong-taatarii@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/UOFGQU7OHSVDXAAY2GS2E5LXAY.jpg?&w=1080)
U volleyball: Big Ten opening weekend
7 p.m. Friday: vs. Michigan
Noon Sunday: vs. Michigan State
Where: Maturi Sports Pavilion
The skinny: The No. 1-ranked Gophers (11-0) open Big Ten play at home Friday and Sunday against No. 20 Michigan (10-2) and Michigan State (7-2). Minnesota coach Hugh McCutcheon has one of his most balanced teams in years and one that is a contender to win the Big Ten and return to the Final Four. Freshman Stephanie Samedy leads the Big Ten in kills per set (4.55) and junior setter Samantha Seliger-Swenson is the conference leader in assists per set (12.26). The U has a 39-match home win streak, dating back to Oct. 25, 2014.
Marcus Fuller
