EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State’s volleyball team played an exciting match against Iowa, winning in five sets (25-20, 25-15, 23-25, 21-25, 15-7) at the Breslin Center. This win elevates MSU’s record to 13-2 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten, while Iowa falls to 10-7 and 1-4 in the conference. The Spartans continue their perfect home record, improving to 7-0 this season.
In the match, MSU outperformed Iowa with a hitting percentage of .293 compared to .245. They also led in total kills (67 to 58), service aces (8-3), and digs (55-53). Iowa had a slight edge in total blocks, finishing with 9.5 to MSU’s 8.
Four players stood out for the Spartans. Senior Evie Doezema, junior Karolina Staniszewska, freshman Bianca Mumcular, and junior Zuzanna Kulig each delivered 13 kills. Notably, Kulig’s performance was exceptional—she hit .667 with just one error on 18 attempts, marking a career high. Kulig also contributed three service aces and four blocks, making her .667 hitting percentage one of the best in Breslin’s history since 2022.
Redshirt freshman setter Malayah Long recorded 54 assists, nearly reaching her career high. In defense, both Staniszewska and Mumcular racked up 13 digs, with Mumcular achieving her fourth double-double of the season. Junior Ky Clayton had a standout moment, recording her first career match with double-digit digs at 10.
The match began tightly contested. MSU took an early lead but faced pressure when Iowa went on a 4-0 run to lead 10-9 in the first set. The Spartans quickly regained momentum and closed out the set 25-20.
In the second set, MSU surged, leading by as much as 11 points before winning 25-15. Iowa claimed the third set 25-23 after a comeback, demonstrating their resilience. They carried that momentum into the fourth set, edging out MSU 25-21.
The deciding fifth set was all about MSU. They started strong, going up 3-0 and maintained control, eventually winning 15-7.
This thrilling match reflects the improvement of the MSU team, especially considering their performance in past seasons. In 2022, they struggled more against teams like Iowa. This year, the confidence and teamwork have clearly made a difference.
As the season progresses, MSU focuses on building momentum with upcoming matches. Their next challenge is against No. 20 Indiana, set for Sunday, Oct. 12, at 1 p.m. This contest will be another important test for the Spartans as they stride toward the Big Ten championship.
For more on NCAA volleyball statistics and player performances, you can check the NCAA official website.
