BOULDER, Colo. – The Fresno State Volleyball Team dropped its final match of the Buffs classic with a nail-biter five-set loss to the Georgia Bulldogs on Sunday.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The battle of the Bulldogs began with a fairly evenly-paced first set, with Fresno State quickly jumping to a lead thanks to Brooke Cowie's service ace and a few errors from Georgia. The Bulldogs managed to maintain a lead with kills from Jenna Legault and Addison Haluska, but Georgia fought back, tying the game multiple times. Fresno State eventually pulled away with a critical block by Ella Rud and Mya Sellers, finishing the set 25-21 in favor of Fresno State.
Fresno State built an early lead again in the second set, powered by strong kills from Ella Rud and consistent serving from Dionii Fraga. Despite Georgia's efforts to close the gap, Fresno State maintained its composure, with key contributions from Kasey Purry and Addison Haluska. The set remained tight, but Fresno State edged Georgia 29-27, taking a 2-0 lead in the match.
Georgia turned the tables in the third set, establishing an early lead and capitalizing on Fresno State's errors. Fresno State tried to rally back with solid performances from Brooke Cowie and Jenna Legault, but Georgia managed to hold on and took the set 28-26.
In the fourth set, Georgia carried their momentum forward, starting with a 3-0 lead. Fresno State struggled to find their rhythm and faced numerous errors, allowing Georgia to extend their lead. Despite a brief rally and defensive efforts from Fresno State, Georgia claimed the set 25-19, forcing a decisive fifth set.
The final set saw Georgia taking an early lead, but Fresno State fought back to close the gap with strong plays from Ella Rud and Kasey Purry. However, Georgia's consistency and critical plays in the end allowed them to clinch the set 15-10, and the match 3-2.
NOTES:
Ella Rud had a career-high 28 kills, four more than her previous high set in 2022.
As a team, Fresno State totaled 12 blocks, a season-high.
Mya Sellers contributed seven block assists; a career high.
Addison Haluska was named to the All-Tournament Team.