Lansing Sun

Michigan State's volleyball team faced a tough challenge against No. 15-ranked Minnesota, losing 3-0 in a match held at the Breslin Student Events Center. The Spartans showed determination, particularly in the closely contested third set.

"I was glad to see us play competitively in set three," said Michigan State head coach Leah Johnson.

With this loss, Michigan State's record now stands at 8-14 overall and 1-10 in the Big Ten Conference. Meanwhile, Minnesota improved to 15-6 overall and 8-3 in conference play. The Spartans will return to action on Sunday, November 3, when they face Ohio State.

Taylor Preston led Michigan State with nine kills, six of which came in the final frame. Akasha Anderson contributed seven kills and Taylah Holdem added six. Anderson also recorded a match-high of 11 digs.

Julia Bishop had 19 assists while Nalani Iosia completed the match with ten digs for the Spartans. Zuzanna Kulig led Michigan State's blocking efforts with three blocks.

Michigan State improved its hitting percentage late in the match, finishing the third set with a .297 hitting percentage but swung .151 for the entire match. Iosia accounted for both of Michigan State’s service aces.

Minnesota took an early lead over MSU in each set. In the first set, despite efforts from Preston and Kulig, Minnesota pulled ahead significantly after an initial close scoreline. A similar pattern followed in the second set where MSU managed to narrow Minnesota's lead but couldn't maintain momentum as Minnesota finished strong again.

The third set saw intense competition with numerous tied scores and lead changes. Although Michigan State briefly gained a lead late into this set following key plays by Preston and Anderson, it ultimately fell short as Minnesota secured victory by winning two consecutive points after reaching a tie at 26-26.