Mizzou Coach Arielle Wilson Talks Volleyball

Arielle Wilson, a native of Chicago, says getting more Black kids involved in the sport of volleyball at a younger age is a key to increasing participation numbers. Photo by Mizzou Sports.

In this episode of “What’s Up Cuz!?” Lance and Jason interview University of Missouri women’s volleyball associate head coach Arielle Wilson. An alum of Proviso East High School, Wilson talked about what it was like growing up playing volleyball in a school with a strong athletic tradition in basketball and football. Wilson also shares her thoughts on how more African Americans can become involved in volleyball and explains the key to long-term success in the spot is getting kids involved in volleyball at an early age, along with participation in club volleyball. A four-time NCAA champion, Wilson explains why she chose to attend Penn State and how she got into coaching after her illustrious career ended.

Also in this episode, producer Shawn chops up the upcoming NFL draft and announces the SportsZone Chicago Draft Party, which will take place on Thursday, April 27th at Output Sports Lounge in Chicago. Lance thinks the Bears should draft an offensive lineman, while Jason has other thoughts.

Lance says the NBA playoffs are good this year and that the title is up for grabs with no clear favorite. Jason talks about going to see the movie “Air” which chronicles the life of Irvin family friend Sonny Vaccaro, while Lance talks about his date night with his wife to see singer Brian McKnight.

“What’s Up Cuz!?” airs on Monday nights from 6-8 p.m. cst on the SportsZone Chicago Roku, YouTube channels and the SportsZone Chicago app.