Krystal Rivers has 40 point Game in Taipei’s Universiade

2017 Taipei Summer Universiade (World University Games) – Women’s Tournament

• August 19th-30th
• Chinese Taipei
• Schedule
• Teams
• Team USA Roster
• Day 1
• Day 2
• Day 3
• Quarterfinals
• Semifinals
• Finals and Bronze Medal
• Event page

Krystal Rivers is a champion in a way most of us would never understand. In 2014, she underwent treatment for a Stage III Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer found in the body’s lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. It causes cells in the lymphatic system to grow abnormally. As the cancer progresses, it hinders the body’s ability to fight infection. She has been in remission ever since. While undergoing treatment, she still continued to take classes and go through volleyball workouts in the University of Alabama.

Today, the VolleyMob All-America third team and  AVCA All-American Honorable Mention, adds another chapter to her winning career. She recorded an amazing 40 points in 33 kills, 3 blocks, and 4 aces, while also adding 11 digs in the game against Mexico.

It takes a special set of circumstances for a volleyball player to score 30 points in a match, let alone 40. Usually, it can only be done when both teams are balanced enough for the game to be a very high scoring five setter. The player has to be inspired beyond measure, while the team itself must recognize his/her hot hand.

Krystal River was an Alabama offensive juggernaut. She complete her collegiate eligibility last fall.  Last year she ranked 2nd in the NCAA in kills per set (5.88), points (803.5) and total kills (705). She’s preparing to start her pro career at Beziers in France alongside fellow All-American Amber Rolfzen.

Regardless if done in the not so glamorous 9th – 16th playoffs of the tournament, this is a performance she is bound to remember for a long time, rightfully so. Classes, chemotherapy, volleyball training with all the side effects of treatment. A comeback worth of All-American status, what can’t she do?