Brainerd likely needs a win over Willmar to get a share of the Central Lakes Conference title. The Cardinals own the advantage, having swept the Warriors on Aug. 30, but Brainerd should be motivated by more than revenge when the teams meet Tuesday. Along with its Central Lakes aspirations, the Warriors are looking for its first win in the series since 2015.
Avery Eckman notched 23 kills in a 3-1 win against St. Cloud Apollo on Sept. 18. Eckman and Courtney Russell were all-conference and libero Jenna Meyer was an honorable mention selection last year for the Warriors (12-4, 7-1).
The Cardinals (13-5, 6-0) should be searching to rebound after a two-set loss to No. 2-3A Champlin Park in the St. Michael-Albertville tournament Saturday.
Willmar has versatile all-conference players in Caitlin Ogdahl (136 kills), Abby Stark (308 digs) and Carly Wedel (447 assists).