MANKATO, Minn. — The Minnesota State volleyball team (13-1, 5-1 NSIC) defeated Sioux Falls (9-5, 4-2 NSIC) in straight sets, 25-17, 25-22, 25-17, on Friday, Oct. 3 at the Taylor Center.
Senior middle blocker Emily Kern was a standout at the net, finishing with a team-high six total blocks while also contributing eight kills to the offense. Setter Jadyn Lester directed the Mavericks' attack with 32 assists and added three service aces, including the decisive point to secure the second set. Madisen Miller provided a spark from the service line, tying her career high with four aces to go along with four digs. Right side hitter Avery Klein was steady on both ends, recording seven kills on a .357 hitting percentage while also adding four blocks.
Minnesota State opened the match with a steady offensive rhythm that quickly wore down Sioux Falls. Early kills from Avery Rosenberg and Kern established the tone, while a service ace by Mary Satori pushed the momentum further in the Mavericks' favor. The Cougars struggled to find consistency, committing several attacks and service errors that allowed MSU to pull away. Kern continued to contribute key points at the net, and the Mavericks maintained control throughout the frame to take it 25–17.
The second began with MSU building a 5–0 lead behind Lester's strong serving and a solo block and kill from Rosenberg. Sioux Falls battled back and eventually tied the score at 13–13, putting pressure on the Mavericks. Minnesota State answered with composure, using a service ace from Lester and a block from Klein to reestablish a two point advantage late in the set. Although the Cougars closed within two points at 24–22, Lester capped the frame with a kill to give the Mavericks a 25–22 win.
The Mavericks closed out the sweep with their most dominant stretch of the night. After falling behind briefly, Miller took over at the service line with three aces in quick succession, sparking a decisive scoring run. Libero Ellie Kline anchored the back row with 13 digs, frustrating Sioux Falls attackers and limiting their offensive rhythm. Rosenberg and Klein combined for important blocks that kept SFU from gaining momentum, and the Mavericks steadily built their advantage. A kill from Rosenberg sealed the set at 25–17 and secured the match victory for Minnesota State.
Head Coach for the Mavericks, Corey Phelps felt that this was an "outstanding match for our program." He adds that "Sioux Falls is always a great team and they've had our number for six years and I'm very proud of the way we attacked them from start to finish."
MSU returns to the Taylor Center on Saturday, Oct. 4, hosting nationally ranked No. 12 Southwest Minnesota State. First serve is scheduled for 2 p.m.
