Kill
An attack that directly wins the point. The ball hits the floor inbounds, flies out of play off a defender, or the receiving team simply can't make a legal return. The stat sheet credits the attacker with a kill and typically the setter with an assist. Kills per set is the headline offensive stat, but pair it with hitting percentage to see if the volume is efficient.
Example
A hard cross lands a foot inside the line before anyone can react. The stat crew marks a kill for the outside hitter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a kill in volleyball?
Any attack that immediately scores a point for your team. Whether the ball hits the floor untouched, flies out off a defender, or forces an unplayable contact, if your attack ends the rally, that is a kill.
How many kills per set is considered good?
In Division I, outside hitters typically average 3.0 to 4.0 kills per set. Above 4.5 is elite. Middles may have fewer attempts but are expected to convert at a higher rate because they attack quicker sets against fewer blockers.