Lansing Sun

Michigan State University's volleyball team secured a win against the University of Michigan in the third annual Battle at Breslin. The match, held at the Breslin Student Events Center in East Lansing, ended with a 3-1 victory for MSU (20-25, 25-17, 25-18, 25-18).

"Tonight was the best all-around team performance we've had to date," said Leah Johnson, head coach of Michigan State. "We worked all week on being a better team, being more fluid and connected in the match, and I was so proud of how they executed that tonight."

Following this victory, MSU's record stands at 10-16 overall and 3-12 in Big Ten play. Their next match is scheduled against Iowa.

Junior opposite hitter Akasha Anderson led Michigan State with 15 kills on a .500 hitting percentage. Junior outside hitter Taylor Preston contributed with 13 kills and eight digs. Senior opposite Aliyah Moore achieved a season-high nine kills.

Sophomore middle blocker Zuzanna Kulig and junior middle blocker Evie Doezema each recorded five blocks during the match. Senior setter Rachel Muisenga earned a double-double with 16 assists and 10 digs. Her teammate Julia Bishop also recorded 16 assists. Senior libero Nalani Iosia led all players with 23 digs.

The Spartans registered eight service aces against seven service errors while holding Michigan to .134 hitting efficiency for the match.

In set one, MSU narrowed an early deficit but ultimately fell short as Michigan pulled ahead late in the set. The Spartans responded strongly in set two by overcoming an early disadvantage to level the scoreline at one set each.

Momentum remained with MSU into sets three and four as they maintained their offensive pressure. Anderson's consistent performance alongside strategic plays from teammates like Karolina Staniszewska helped secure consecutive set wins to close out the match.

The win marks an important step for Michigan State as they continue their season within conference play.