Wisconsin vs. Kentucky: Badgers Ready for Final Four Rematch | The Kelly Sheffield Show

Wisconsin volleyball opens the 2026 season with a massive challenge: No. 3 Kentucky in a Final Four rematch, followed by another top-10 showdown against No. 7 Louisville. Head coach Kelly Sheffield joins Jon Arias to break down whether the No. 6 Badgers are ready for the test. On this episode of The Kelly Sheffield Show, Sheffield looks back at Wisconsin’s exhibition against Butler, including the Badgers’ aggressive serving, strong passing and dramatic fourth-set comeback. He also discusses Hie Thompson’s return to the court, Wisconsin’s unsettled starting lineup and the competition at libero. Then, Sheffield previews the huge opening weekend at Fiserv Forum, explains what makes Kentucky such a difficult matchup and answers fan questions about replacing key players, former Badger Anna Smrek and why this could become one of the best passing teams he’s ever coached.