Michigan State University’s volleyball team faced a challenging match against the No. 2-ranked Nebraska on Friday night at the Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing, Michigan. The event attracted over 8,200 fans, marking it as the second-highest attendance in the program’s history.
The Spartans were defeated by Nebraska with scores of 25-15, 25-19, and 25-15. This result leaves Michigan State with a record of 7-11 overall and 0-7 in the Big Ten Conference (B1G), while Nebraska improved to 17-1 overall and remains undefeated in conference play at 7-0.
During the match, Michigan State honored its alumni from the past decade between sets two and three. The period from 2010 to 2019 was highlighted as one of the most successful eras for MSU volleyball, featuring seven NCAA Tournament appearances and advancing to the Elite Eight in 2017.
Junior outside hitters Akasha Anderson and Taylor Preston each contributed nine kills for Michigan State. Sophomore Zuzanna Kulig led with a .545 hitting percentage alongside six kills on eleven attempts and three blocks. Senior setter Julia Bishop recorded twenty-six assists while senior libero Nalani Iosia achieved a match-high thirteen digs. Freshman Kayla Foley made her debut with four digs.
In set one, Michigan State initially led after a strong start but eventually succumbed to Nebraska’s closing run. Set two saw MSU attempt a comeback from a significant deficit before falling short again. In set three, Anderson stood out with seven kills; however, Nebraska sealed their victory with a decisive run.
The Spartans will remain at home for their next game against Washington on Sunday afternoon.
