Lansing Sun

Michigan State's volleyball team faced a challenging match against the third-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions, resulting in a 3-0 defeat at the Breslin Student Events Center. The Spartans struggled with passing and serving, as highlighted by head coach Leah Johnson: "Our passing today, compared to when we played at their place where I felt like we out-served and passed them, today they out-served and passed us." Despite this setback, Johnson remains optimistic about the team's progress.

The loss brings Michigan State's record to 7-9 overall and 0-5 in Big Ten play, while Penn State advances to 15-1 overall and maintains an unbeaten conference record. The Spartans will continue their Big Ten schedule by hosting Illinois on Saturday afternoon.

In the match against Penn State, junior outside hitter Akasha Anderson led Michigan State with seven kills, a service ace, and a solo block. Sophomore middle blocker Zuzanna Kulig contributed five kills and a block. Senior setter Julia Bishop recorded 18 assists, while freshman defensive specialist Mya Bolton had seven digs.

The first set saw Michigan State tied with Penn State at 12-12 before the Nittany Lions pulled away with an 8-1 run to win it 25-16. In the second set, Michigan State held a lead of 18-15 after a double block by Bishop and Kulig but ultimately fell short as Penn State took it 25-22. During the third set, despite efforts from Anderson and junior outside hitter Taylor Preston, Penn State secured victory with a final score of 25-16.