Atlanta Dream Overcome Phoenix Mercury for Fifth Straight Win

A Stunning Night in Tempe Arizona State gave its fans a performance to remember Saturday night, erasing a 17-point deficit to stun No. 24 TCU, 27–24, in Tempe. The victory not only marked back-to-back come-from-behind wins for the Sun Devils, but it also delivered an early-season signature moment for a team still building its identity under pressure. The drama reached its climax in the fourth quarter when kicker Jesus Gomez trotted onto the field for a 23-yard field goal with just over a minute left. Gomez had missed twice earlier, but when the game hung in the balance, he delivered the deciding kick, splitting the uprights and sending the Arizona State sideline into celebration. For a program looking to prove it can contend against ranked opponents, the final moments provided a defining exclamation point. A Game of Two Halves What made the victory even more striking was how far Arizona State had to climb just to make it competitive. Midway through the second quarter, the Sun Devils trailed 17–0. The Horned Frogs had opened the game with precision, capitalizing on both short drives and explosive plays. Quarterback Josh Hoover tossed a 10-yard touchdown to Trent Battle , and running back Jeremy Payne broke free for a 16-yard score. When TCU added a field goal to stretch its advantage, it appeared the Horned Frogs were in full command. But momentum in college football can turn quickly, and Arizona State seized its opportunity. Quarterback Sam Leavitt uncorked a 57-yard strike to wideout Jordyn Tyson , igniting the comeback and bringing the home crowd back to life. Leavitt later capped a drive with an 8-yard touchdown run, and suddenly a game that seemed destined for a blowout tightened to 17–14 by halftime. Offensive Leaders Step Up From there, the Sun Devils’ offense grew sharper and more confident. Leavitt’s composure under pressure defined the night. The sophomore quarterback finished with 278 passing yards and two touchdown throws, in addition to his critical rushing score. When Arizona State needed big plays, he found them, often turning to Tyson, who emerged as the star of the receiving corps. Tyson’s eight receptions totaled 126 yards, highlighted by his two touchdown catches that tilted momentum in ASU’s favor. The ground game provided an essential balance. Running back Raleek Brown carved through TCU’s front for 147 rushing yards, often turning modest carries into chain-moving gains. His ability to keep the offense on schedule gave Leavitt more flexibility to attack downfield. Without Brown’s consistency, the comeback effort may never have materialized. TCU’s Missed Opportunities For TCU, the loss was as much about what went wrong as it was about what Arizona State did right. Hoover, while throwing for 242 yards, struggled to protect the football, committing three turnovers that swung the game’s momentum. A strip-sack late in the fourth quarter set up Arizona State’s decisive scoring drive, and a last-minute interception sealed the Horned Frogs’ fate. Perhaps more alarming was TCU’s inability to establish any kind of running game. The Horned Frogs mustered only 10 total rushing yards , a figure that underscored how thoroughly Arizona State’s defensive line controlled the trenches. An offense that thrives on balance was forced to become one-dimensional, and the Sun Devils exploited that vulnerability. Defensive Heroics Seal the Win Arizona State’s defense deserves equal credit for the upset. The unit produced six sacks and forced three turnovers, constantly pressuring Hoover and limiting TCU’s explosive potential. Each big stop further energized the crowd, which became a factor as the game wore on. Linebacker Kaleb Elarms-Orr was a bright spot for TCU with 13 tackles and two sacks, but his efforts could not mask the breakdowns around him. In contrast, ASU’s defensive front operated with cohesion and relentlessness, repeatedly collapsing the pocket and bottling up the run. Their dominance allowed the Sun Devils to claw their way back into the game and ultimately finish the job. The Takeaway The win showcased Arizona State’s resilience and ability to respond under adversity. For the second straight week, the Sun Devils found themselves in a hole and fought their way out, displaying a level of poise uncommon for a young team. The upset of a ranked opponent is more than just another mark in the win column—it’s a potential turning point for the season. For TCU, the loss exposed lingering weaknesses. Protection breakdowns and the lack of a run game left Hoover vulnerable, while turnovers erased what had been a commanding lead. If the Horned Frogs hope to contend in the Big 12, they will need to address these issues quickly before they derail the season. What’s Next Arizona State will look to ride this momentum into conference play, where consistency will be the next challenge. If the Sun Devils can build on their balanced offense and aggressive defense, they may prove to be more than just spoilers in the Pac-12 race. TCU, meanwhile, faces the difficult task of regrouping after a stunning defeat. The Horned Frogs will need to reestablish their offensive rhythm and fix protection issues before facing tougher opponents ahead. How quickly they respond could determine whether this setback becomes a turning point or a troubling trend.

A Historic Night in Charlottesville The atmosphere at Scott Stadium was electric as Virginia captured its most significant football victory in years. In front of 50,107 fans, the Cavaliers outlasted No. 8 Florida State 46-38 in a double-overtime contest. It marked Virginia’s first home win over a top-10 opponent since defeating the Seminoles two decades earlier. Head coach Tony Elliott called the night a championship-level moment for the program and a glimpse of what he believes Virginia football can become. Morris Guides Cavaliers to Victory Quarterback Chandler Morris carried the Cavaliers with five total touchdowns. He rushed for three scores, threw for two more, and delivered the decisive four-yard run in the second overtime. Virginia was required to attempt a two-point conversion, and Morris connected with Trell Harris in the end zone to extend the lead. On Florida State’s final possession, cornerback Ja’Son Prevard intercepted a pass in the end zone for his second takeaway of the night, sealing the victory and sending fans rushing onto the field. Morris completed 26 of 35 passes for 229 yards and added 59 rushing yards. Running back J’Mari Taylor provided balance with 99 yards on the ground and a touchdown, helping Virginia control the tempo in the second half. Seminoles Rally But Fall Short Florida State fought back after a disastrous start. The Seminoles fell behind 14-0 after two first-quarter turnovers but used their own takeaways to mount a rally. Quarterback Tommy Castellanos led three straight scoring drives, highlighted by a short rushing touchdown, to put FSU ahead 21-14 before the break. Even after Virginia regained the lead in the fourth quarter, Florida State responded once more. Castellanos engineered a late 67-yard march in the final two minutes and found Randy Pittman Jr. for the tying touchdown on fourth down with just 36 seconds left. That play sent the game into overtime at 35-35. Trading Blows in Overtime The first overtime ended with both teams trading field goals, Florida State hitting from 36 yards and Virginia answering from 39. In the second overtime, Morris’s rushing score and two-point conversion gave the Cavaliers an eight-point advantage. Florida State’s chance to answer ended in disappointment as Castellanos’s pass was picked off in the end zone by Prevard. Receiver Duce Robinson was Florida State’s top weapon, finishing with nine receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown. Castellanos threw for 254 yards and rushed for 78 but could not overcome Virginia’s timely defense. Running back Gavin Sawchuk added 74 rushing yards and a touchdown, while safety Earl Little Jr. led the Seminoles with 13 tackles. Significance for Both Programs The win gave Virginia a 4-1 overall record and a 2-0 start in ACC play. It was a landmark result that energized the fan base and underscored the team’s ability to compete with the best. Balanced contributions from veterans and emerging players highlighted the Cavaliers’ depth and resilience. Florida State, now 3-1, saw its promising season stumble after a high-profile win over Alabama earlier in September. Head coach Mike Norvell acknowledged that the Seminoles did not start the game with the urgency they needed, even as they showed fight to rally multiple times. Looking Ahead Virginia now prepares for a critical road matchup at Louisville on October 4, where the Cavaliers will attempt to build on their momentum in a crowded ACC race. Florida State heads back to Tallahassee for a rivalry showdown with Miami, hoping to regroup and reassert itself as a conference contender. For Virginia, the double-overtime triumph was more than just a win. It was a reminder of the unpredictability of college football and a night that will be remembered for restoring belief and proving that the Cavaliers can rise to meet the moment against one of the sport’s heavyweights.

A Landmark Victory in Provo The Colorado Buffaloes delivered one of their biggest wins in recent memory, toppling No. 14 BYU in four sets — 25-14, 25-23, 23-25, 25-21 — Thursday night at the Smith Fieldhouse in Provo. The Buffs not only handed BYU its first loss of the season but also opened Big 12 play with a dramatic statement. In front of more than 2,800 fans, Colorado improved to 10-2 overall and 1-0 in league play, while BYU dropped to 12-1 and 0-1 in the conference. It was Colorado’s first victory over a top-15 opponent since 2021, underscoring the team’s steady rise under head coach Jesse Mahoney. Burilovic Leads the Charge Junior outside hitter Ana Burilovic put together a standout performance that shaped the outcome from start to finish. She finished with 22 kills on efficient .333 hitting, added seven digs, and registered four aces that kept BYU’s defense on edge throughout the night. Burilovic’s consistency and ability to deliver in clutch moments gave Colorado the confidence to push through BYU’s rallies. Afterward, Mahoney praised his team’s preparation, noting that the group responded to two consecutive losses with one of its most complete matches of the year. Early Dominance Colorado wasted no time setting the tone. A 5-1 start forced BYU to burn an early timeout, and the Buffs never looked back. They closed the first set with a blistering .565 hitting percentage while holding the Cougars to zero. Sydney Jordan capped the frame with a decisive kill that sealed a commanding 25-14 win. The second set featured more back-and-forth play. BYU surged ahead briefly at 14-13, riding the efforts of Brielle Kemavor and freshman sensation Suli Davis. Yet Colorado countered with a composed response, stringing together timely kills from Burilovic and Lily Dwinell. Even as BYU mounted a late rally to tie the score, the Buffs steadied themselves in the final points, taking the set 25-23 and grabbing full control of the match. BYU Extends the Battle The Cougars showed their resilience in the third set. Setter Alex Bower guided the offense with sharp distribution, piling up assists as BYU built a 19-12 advantage. Claire Little Chambers and Davis took turns at the net, pushing the hosts closer to extending the contest. Colorado stormed back with an 11-3 run that stunned the home crowd, even tying the score at 22 after a Burilovic ace. But Bower reconnected with Chambers and Kemavor in the final rallies, allowing BYU to escape with a 25-23 win and keep the match alive. The Final Push The fourth set reflected the intensity of the entire evening. Both teams traded points to an 8-8 deadlock, neither side able to create separation. Then Colorado’s depth began to shine. Kills from Dwinell and middle blocker Cayla Payne, paired with an ace from freshman Inés Losada, forced BYU into another timeout. The Cougars responded with a short burst to briefly tie the score, but the Buffs answered immediately with their own run. Burilovic’s serving pressure and Payne’s blocking presence helped Colorado establish a late cushion. At match point, fittingly, another ace dropped in to secure the 25-21 clincher and seal the upset. Complete Team Effort Although Burilovic’s star performance stood out, Colorado’s success stemmed from contributions across the lineup. Payne added nine kills while leading all players with five blocks. Setter Rian Finley orchestrated the offense with 47 assists, while also contributing nine digs. Dwinell chipped in 10 kills and four blocks, and libero Sarah Morton steadied the defense with nine digs and a pair of service aces. Collectively, Colorado outplayed BYU statistically in nearly every category, finishing with more kills, assists, blocks, and aces. BYU’s Response For BYU, Davis led the way with 15 kills and nine digs, though she hit just .103 against a disciplined Colorado block. Kemavor recorded 13 kills and four blocks, while Chambers added 11 kills and steady back-row defense. Bower’s double-double of 37 assists and 10 digs was another highlight, yet the Cougars’ 28 attack errors proved too costly against an opponent firing on all cylinders. Head coach Heather Olmstead admitted her team was out of rhythm, noting that the Cougars appeared flat in multiple phases of the game. With Iowa State visiting Provo next, she stressed the need for a quick turnaround. Looking Ahead The Buffaloes left Provo with both momentum and validation. By beating a nationally ranked opponent on the road, Colorado announced its intent to compete at the top of the Big 12. The win came just a week after consecutive losses to in-state rival Colorado State, demonstrating the team’s ability to reset and rise to the occasion against an elite opponent. For BYU, the defeat was a reminder that in a league as competitive as the Big 12, there are no easy nights. The Cougars will look to regroup as they continue their first full season in the conference. Colorado’s upset highlighted the program’s growth and resilience, while BYU’s response will show how quickly a top-15 team can bounce back. For fans, it was a thrilling showcase of the depth and competitiveness that defines Big 12 volleyball.

A Strong Start for the Boilermakers The No. 10 Purdue volleyball team opened Big Ten competition with an impressive sweep over Washington, securing a 25-21, 29-27, 25-22 win at Mackey Arena. The victory marked Purdue’s best season start since 2022 and extended their winning streak to eight matches. Playing in front of more than 6,000 fans, the Boilermakers demonstrated both resilience and composure in a high-energy atmosphere that saw 32 tied scores and 16 lead changes. For Washington, the match reflected a familiar storyline. Despite strong efforts and holding leads late in multiple sets, the Huskies couldn’t close out key points against one of the nation’s toughest teams. The setback leaves them still searching for consistency against top-10 opponents. Key Performances That Defined the Match Kenna Wollard led Purdue’s offense with 17 kills, including back-to-back strikes that saved the Huskies’ set points in the second frame. Her timely plays kept the Boilermakers alive and swung momentum at critical moments. Akasha Anderson added 14 kills on an efficient .393 hitting percentage, providing stability on the outside while contributing four crucial points in the late stages of set two. Setter Taylor Anderson delivered one of her most well-rounded performances of the season, dishing out 39 assists alongside seven digs and a season-high five blocks. Her ability to control tempo allowed Purdue to erase deficits and finish rallies. Opposite hitter Grace Heaney showcased defensive grit with a team-high 12 digs while chipping in nine kills. On Washington’s side, senior Alexa Markley turned in a career-best effort with 19 kills on a .300 clip, showing she could rise to the occasion against elite competition. Junior Kierstyn Barton tallied 15 kills and 11 digs for her first double-double of the year, while Alexis Haury recorded 35 assists and 15 digs. Their efforts highlighted Washington’s fight, though the Huskies were undone by untimely errors and missed opportunities. Set-by-Set Recap The opening set featured back-and-forth play until late. Washington led 18-16 before Purdue surged on a 9-3 closing run, capitalizing on errors and maintaining composure in extended rallies. The second set was the evening’s most thrilling. Washington stormed to a 10-2 lead and maintained an edge throughout, holding four different set points from 24-23 up to 27-26. Purdue, however, refused to yield. Wollard and Anderson fueled the comeback, with Anderson’s block providing the go-ahead 28-27 point before the Boilermakers clinched it 29-27. In the third frame, Purdue built a 15-9 lead, appearing ready to cruise to victory. Washington mounted a late charge, taking a 20-19 advantage, but Purdue again finished stronger. Behind Anderson and Wollard’s steady hitting, the Boilermakers sealed the 25-22 win to close out the sweep. Numbers Behind the Match Statistically, the two teams were evenly matched, but Purdue made the winning plays when it mattered most. The Boilermakers hit .278 with 48 kills, while Washington hit .255 with 45 kills. The Huskies held a slight advantage in digs, 45-42, and produced more aces (4-3), but missed 11 serves—eight of them in the first set alone. Purdue’s ability to minimize errors and stay poised under pressure separated them in key moments. What It Means for Purdue This victory confirmed Purdue’s status as a contender in both the Big Ten and the national conversation. With three ranked wins already on the season and a balanced roster firing on all cylinders, head coach Dave Shondell’s team is showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive depth. The Boilermakers’ streak of eight consecutive victories has them riding momentum into the rest of conference play. Purdue’s schedule remains challenging, but with their mix of veteran leadership and emerging stars, they look capable of maintaining a place among the top programs in the country. Their next test comes against Illinois, where they’ll aim to extend their streak and solidify a 2-0 Big Ten start. Washington’s Path Forward For Washington, the loss highlighted both promise and frustration. The Huskies proved they can hang with elite programs, building leads and creating opportunities, but struggled to close out pivotal points. Serving errors and missed chances in crunch time continue to plague the team, preventing them from translating strong play into signature wins. Still, the performances of Markley, Barton, and Haury point to a foundation that could help the Huskies turn the corner. As they prepare to face Indiana next, the focus will be on minimizing errors and finishing sets with the same composure that top-tier opponents like Purdue have mastered. Final Takeaway Purdue’s sweep of Washington was not just a conference-opening win but also a statement of intent. With Wollard and Anderson leading a deep and balanced lineup, the Boilermakers showed they are prepared to contend with anyone. Washington, though defeated, demonstrated resilience and flashes of brilliance that suggest improvement is within reach. The match was a showcase of the razor-thin margins that define top-level volleyball, and a reminder that in the Big Ten, every rally matters.

A Clash of Powerhouses in Lincoln The highly anticipated Big Ten opener between Nebraska and Michigan lived up to its billing, even if the scoreline told the story of one team’s dominance. On Wednesday night, inside the packed Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln, Nebraska, the No. 1-ranked Huskers swept Michigan 25-22, 25-10, 25-13 in front of 8,543 fans. The win pushed Nebraska’s record to 11-0 and reinforced why the program sits atop the national rankings. For Michigan, the trip marked both an opportunity and a challenge. Entering the match with a 10-2 record, the Wolverines had momentum but also faced the daunting task of taking on the reigning powerhouse in a hostile environment. While the Wolverines battled hard, especially in the opening set, the Huskers’ depth, efficiency, and unrelenting pressure proved too much. First Set: Michigan Challenges Early Michigan started the match with confidence. Behind early kills from Ella Demetrician and strong blocking from Serena Nyambio and Allison Jacobs, the Wolverines opened a 2-0 lead. Nebraska quickly responded, and the first set unfolded as a tug-of-war. Michigan’s offense, led by Jacobs, kept the Wolverines within striking distance. A 3-0 spurt midway through the set, capped by a Jacobs block and a Gordon kill, trimmed the Nebraska lead to 19-15. The Wolverines fought all the way back to trail just 23-22 after a Jones kill and another well-timed block. However, Nebraska’s composure showed late. A Michigan service error handed Nebraska set point, and the Huskers secured a 25-22 win on the next rally. Second Set: Nebraska Flexes Its Muscle If the first set hinted at balance, the second revealed Nebraska’s full dominance. The Huskers came out firing, racing to an 8-1 lead behind kills from Virginia Adriano and Andi Jackson, along with a service ace from Olivia Mauch. Nebraska’s frontline overwhelmed the Wolverines, and their serving forced Michigan into constant defensive scrambles. Michigan attempted to claw back with a brief 5-1 run, cutting the deficit to 13-7. Kills from Jacobs and Gordon provided a spark, but Nebraska slammed the door with a 6-0 surge. Adriano, Murray, and Jackson combined for timely kills as the Huskers ran away with the set, 25-10. Nebraska hit an eye-popping .565 in the frame, while Michigan was held to .000. Third Set: Huskers Close the Door The Wolverines refused to fold in the third, trading points to an 8-8 tie. But Nebraska’s depth again surfaced. Setter Bergen Reilly orchestrated a 7-0 serving run, distributing to Adriano, Jackson, and Allick while also delivering an ace herself. Suddenly, Nebraska led 15-8 and the Devaney crowd sensed the end. Though Michigan managed late kills from Jacobs and Demetrician, the Huskers finished with authority. An ace from Campbell Flynn closed the match 25-13. Nebraska hit .346 in the final set, while Michigan dipped into negative territory at -.033. Michigan’s Bright Spots Despite the Loss Despite the sweep, Michigan showed flashes of resilience. Allison Jacobs led the Wolverines with eight kills, three blocks, and five digs. Serena Nyambio anchored the net with four blocks, while setter Ellie White added nine assists and tied for the team lead in digs with six. Freshman Cymarah Gordon contributed four efficient kills on seven swings without an error. Michigan’s ability to push Nebraska late in the first set demonstrated the team’s growth. Head coach Erin Virtue emphasized postgame that while the result stung, the experience of facing the nation’s best will only sharpen her team for the grind of Big Ten play. Nebraska’s Depth Proves Decisive The Huskers’ balance was once again on display. Harper Murray led with 11 kills and a .391 hitting percentage, while Adriano added 10 kills on .444 efficiency. Allick and Jackson chipped in a combined 17 kills, each hitting well above .300. Setter Bergen Reilly ran the offense with poise, finishing with 28 assists, nine digs, five kills, and an ace. Reilly also passed her head coach, Dani Busboom Kelly, to move into fifth place on Nebraska’s all-time rally scoring assists list. With five different players serving aces and four hitters recording at least eight kills, Nebraska showed why they are a championship favorite. Looking Ahead For Nebraska, the sweep reinforced their position atop the Big Ten and the national rankings. The Huskers remain undefeated and now shift focus to a weekend matchup against Maryland at home. With their depth and versatility, they continue to look like the team to beat in college volleyball. Michigan, meanwhile, heads to East Lansing for an in-state rivalry showdown with Michigan State. The Wolverines will aim to regroup quickly, leaning on the promise shown in their competitive first set against Nebraska. Final Takeaway The Big Ten opener between Nebraska and Michigan highlighted the Huskers’ elite blend of talent, depth, and execution. While Michigan showed grit and flashes of potential, Nebraska’s ability to dominate every facet of the game underscored why they sit at No. 1 in the nation. For fans, the match was both a glimpse of Nebraska’s championship form and a reminder that in the Big Ten, every contest is a battle—even for the very best.

A Clash of Ranked Programs Moody Coliseum in Dallas provided the stage for one of the most exciting early-season volleyball battles in the country as No. 5 Pittsburgh met No. 11 SMU. The Panthers entered the match on a long winning streak, while the Mustangs were eager to prove themselves against one of the most consistent programs in the nation. In a contest filled with momentum swings, powerful kills, and a crowd that seemed to lift both teams, Pitt survived the challenge and escaped with a 3-2 victory (25-20, 23-25, 25-19, 18-25, 15-9). The meeting carried significance beyond the scoreboard. For Pitt, it was another chance to add a high-quality road win to its résumé and show why the team continues to sit firmly among the top programs in the ACC. For SMU, the matchup offered a chance to demonstrate that last season’s breakthrough was no fluke and that the Mustangs belong in the conversation as one of the country’s toughest teams. Pitt Controls Early Momentum The opening set began with SMU feeding off its home environment, racing to a 4-1 advantage. The energy in the building surged as the Mustangs looked poised to strike first. Pitt, however, responded with the composure expected from a seasoned top-five team. Olivia Babcock delivered three early kills, and the Panthers’ blocking schemes began to slow SMU’s rhythm. By the midpoint of the set, Pitt had seized full control. Their outside hitters found consistent success against the block, and the back row kept rallies alive with sharp defensive coverage. Although SMU mounted a small push late, the Panthers’ early lead proved too much to overcome. Pitt sealed the frame 25-20, setting the tone with their balance and poise. Mustangs Rally to Even the Match The second set told a different story. SMU regrouped and displayed greater patience on offense. The combination of Sarah Jones and Emma Livings gave the Panthers trouble, as both players mixed power with smart shot placement. A 19-14 lead for the Mustangs forced Pitt to burn a timeout. The Panthers tried to close the gap behind Babcock’s attacking, but SMU’s serve receive held steady in the closing points. With the set hanging in the balance at 24-23, the Mustangs delivered one of their most efficient rallies of the night, capped by a Jones kill that brought the crowd to its feet. SMU evened the match at one set apiece with a 25-23 victory, shifting momentum back to the home team. Panthers Reassert Their Authority Pitt answered with authority in the third set, reminding everyone why they hold a top-five ranking. Their serving pressure increased dramatically, and SMU’s passing broke down under the constant barrage. Dagmar Mourits contributed timely kills, while setter Brooke Mosher distributed the ball with precision, keeping the Mustangs guessing on each attack. SMU tried to counter by pushing the tempo and forcing Pitt’s middle blockers to move laterally, but errors began to pile up. The Panthers extended their lead steadily and closed the frame with a 25-19 win. At that point, it appeared Pitt was ready to finish the night in four. SMU Forces a Decisive Fifth The Mustangs, however, refused to let the match slip away. Their response in the fourth set was fueled by resilience and the energy of the Dallas faithful. An early 5-0 run gave SMU breathing room, and their block finally began to slow down Pitt’s pin hitters. Livings delivered her best stretch of the match, recording four kills in the span of six rallies. Pitt attempted to close the gap, but unforced errors and strong serving from SMU prevented any late comeback. The Mustangs secured the set 25-18, tying the match at two sets apiece and sending the showdown into a dramatic fifth frame. Pitt Delivers in the Clutch As the decisive set unfolded, the experience and steadiness of Pitt became clear. The Panthers opened with a 6-2 lead, capitalizing on SMU’s nerves. Babcock, who had been consistent all evening, turned in her most dominant performance in the shortened set. Her three early kills and one ace silenced the home crowd and put the Panthers firmly in control. SMU fought hard, drawing within two points at 10-8 after a long rally won by Jones. Yet Pitt responded with back-to-back blocks that halted the momentum. A final kill from Mourits sealed the 15-9 set and gave the Panthers a 3-2 road victory. Standout Performances For Pitt, Babcock finished with a match-high 21 kills, four blocks, and three service aces. Mourits added 12 kills and five blocks, while Mosher orchestrated the offense with 47 assists. The Panthers hit .280 as a team, using balance and depth to wear down SMU over five sets. The Mustangs were led by Jones, who recorded 18 kills and eight digs, and Livings, who added 15 kills of her own. Despite falling short, SMU’s block recorded 11 stuffs, and their ability to respond after dropping two sets demonstrated the toughness head coach Lisa Seifert has instilled in the program. Looking Ahead For Pitt, the victory further validates their top-five ranking and builds confidence heading into the heart of conference play. Their ability to win on the road, especially in a hostile environment, bodes well for a team with national championship aspirations. SMU, though disappointed by the result, gained valuable experience and showed it can compete with the nation’s best. Their balanced offense and defensive resilience suggest they will remain a factor not only in the American Athletic Conference but also on the national stage. Final Takeaway The showdown between Pitt and SMU delivered everything a marquee volleyball matchup should: momentum shifts, clutch performances, and a dramatic conclusion. Pitt’s ability to execute under pressure ultimately decided the outcome, while SMU’s resilience proved they are a team worthy of their top-15 billing. For both programs, the night was a reminder of the fine margins that define elite-level volleyball.

A Strong Bounce Back for the Cardinals The No. 6 Louisville Cardinals returned to form on Monday night inside the KFC Yum! Center, delivering a convincing sweep over in-state rival Western Kentucky. After a narrow loss to Kentucky in their previous outing, Louisville wasted no time in asserting its dominance, defeating the Hilltoppers 3-0 (25-15, 25-17, 25-20). The victory marked Louisville’s 20th straight win over WKU and demonstrated why the Cardinals remain a national powerhouse. Head coach Dan Meske emphasized the team’s eagerness to return to competition after the Kentucky setback. He explained that the Cardinals felt they had let opportunities slip away in that loss and were hungry to return to the court. The focus was clear—get back on track and reassert their dominance before heading into conference play. Set One: Louisville Establishes Control Early The opening set saw the Cardinals immediately establish their rhythm. They jumped out to an 11-6 lead, forcing Western Kentucky to call an early timeout. Middle blocker Cara Cresse delivered a standout performance with a solo block and three kills in quick succession, fueling the Cardinals’ momentum. WKU’s Faith Young tried to answer back with two kills, but Louisville proved too strong. The Cardinals closed the set 25-15, sending a message that they were determined to dictate the pace. Set Two: Cresse and Company Extend the Lead The second set began with both teams trading points, tied at 11-11 before Louisville went on a decisive 3-0 run. Western Kentucky fought to stay within reach, cutting the deficit to two points, but Louisville’s serving and balanced attack proved too much to handle. Ava Utterback’s strong serving runs, paired with kills from Cresse and Kalyssa Blackshear, stretched the lead. Blackshear capped off the frame with a decisive kill, securing the set 25-17 and putting the Cardinals up 2-0. Cresse remained the driving force, finishing with 10 kills on 17 swings and an efficient .588 hitting percentage. Her eight blocks across the night disrupted WKU’s offensive rhythm and kept the Cardinals firmly in control. Set Three: Hilltoppers Show Fight, But Cards Finish Strong Western Kentucky saved its best effort for the third set. The Hilltoppers recorded 15 kills, with freshman Sonja Laaksonen contributing four and libero Tayler Baron adding six digs. Faith Young led the offensive charge with four kills, energizing the team and keeping the set competitive. For a moment, it looked as though WKU might extend the match, but Louisville had other plans. Petersen, Blackshear, and Cresse delivered timely kills to put the Cardinals ahead 21-15. Although WKU mounted a late rally, the Cardinals closed out the match 25-20. An ace from libero Kamden Schrand sealed the sweep, giving Louisville a much-needed bounce-back victory. Standout Performances Louisville’s victory was fueled by balanced contributions across the lineup. Cara Cresse’s combination of offense and defense anchored the team, while Chloe Chicoine added eight kills and 14 digs, stabilizing both the front and back rows. Payton Petersen and Kalyssa Blackshear chipped in nine kills apiece, giving Louisville reliable scoring from multiple positions. Schrand provided defensive stability with 14 digs and two service aces, while Utterback’s timely serving runs added crucial momentum shifts. For Western Kentucky, Faith Young’s nine kills led the way, supported by Baron’s 16 digs. Though they struggled against Louisville’s block and serving pressure, the Hilltoppers showed flashes of resilience, particularly in the third set. What the Win Means for Louisville The victory highlighted Louisville’s ability to quickly recover from adversity and reaffirm their status as one of the nation’s top programs. The Cardinals posted a .274 hitting percentage while tallying 42 kills, 52 digs, and 12 blocks. Their aggressive serving kept WKU off balance and demonstrated the kind of performance they will need in conference play. Head coach Dan Meske praised the team’s serving effort, calling it their most consistent and disruptive performance of the season. For Louisville, this win was not only about adding another victory to the record but also about proving they can reset and perform at a high level after setbacks. Looking Ahead for Both Programs Louisville improved to 8-2 overall and now turns its attention to Atlantic Coast Conference play, opening against Boston College on Friday. With momentum from this dominant sweep, the Cardinals are well-positioned to challenge for the ACC crown and make another deep NCAA Tournament run. Western Kentucky dropped to 9-4 but remains a dangerous team heading into Conference USA play against Jacksonville State. Despite the loss, WKU’s defensive effort and flashes of offensive production suggest they have the tools to compete for their conference championship. Final Takeaway The rivalry clash inside the KFC Yum! Center delivered another chapter in Louisville’s dominance over Western Kentucky. With Cresse’s commanding presence, Chicoine’s defensive reliability, and a well-balanced attack, the Cardinals showcased why they are ranked among the nation’s elite. For WKU, the sweep was a reminder of the adjustments needed to compete at the highest level, but also evidence of their resilience and potential as conference play begins.