Natalie Uhart, junior middle blocker, saw no court time because of an undisclosed injury. Senior setter Emily Brown stepped up to be the catalyst to a balanced Kansas attack. Kansas defeated UMKC 3-0 (30-26, 30-17, 30-28) Tuesday night at the Horesji Family Athletics Center.

Brown showcased her versatility with 27 assists, eight digs, and five kills and helped Kansas to a 7-0 run in the second game. The run put Kansas up 18-11 firmly in the Jayhawk’s control.

“She didn’t have one of her better attacking nights,” Bechard said, “But she helps the team in many ways. She’s not really one we can have out of the line-up.”

Uhart suffered an injury in the fourth game against Michigan State last Friday night. Bechard couldn’t disclose the injury because of NCAA rules. Bechard said there was no time-table for Uhart’s return.

“She’s day-to-day,” Bechard said.

Senior Caitlin Mahoney saw time at middle blocker in Uhart’s absence. Bechard said Uhart’s injury had taken a toll on the team emotionally more than physically. Uhart missed all of last season with a knee injury that she suffered in the preseason. Uhart was granted a medical redshirt and is still classified as a junior by the NCAA.

Freshman Karina Garlington provided a spark for Kansas in the third and final game. Garlington had seven kills in 11 attempts and helped Kansas clinch the match with a 30-28 victory. Kansas rallied twice in the final game, coming back from 16-10 and 25-20 deficits.

Kansas jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the match after winning the first game 30-26. Sophomore Sarah Wittenauer served an ace to give Kansas a 26-23 lead and freshman Jenna Kaiser had a kill to give Kansas a comfortable 28-25 lead. Kaiser came in to the game leading the team in kills but erratic play in the second game put Kaiser on the bench and opened the door for Garlington.

“Early in the year, every swing Jenna took was golden,” Bechard said. “Now, it’s kind of like being in a batting slump where you’re just not seeing the ball well. But you’ll see a lot of Jenna Kaiser this weekend.”

Kansas played its best volleyball during the second match, winning 30-28. Bechard said there was still a lot to work on this week.

“There were some times we looked a little sluggish but we’re back home now for a stretch,” Bechard said. “We’re looking forward to being in our own bed and being in our own gym.”