INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Despite a strong third set rally, Oakland (5-18, 5-6 HL) dropped in straight sets (25-14, 25-19, 25-23) to IU Indianapolis (13-10, 7-4 HL) on Saturday in Horizon League action. The Golden Grizzlies kept the pressure on the Jaguars from the service line and the net, tallying eight service aces and five total blocks against the home team.

Libero Lyse Bates led the back row effort with 17 digs, adding in four assists. Setter Delaney Stern ran the 5-1 offense with a double-double with 21 assists and collected 14 digs as middle blocker Ellen Zapp was effective at the net, recording five kills and three blocks and serving up two aces. Opposite hitter Caroline Moore finished the afternoon with six kills on 18 attempts and added three blocks on the right.

Oakland opened the the match quickly evening the score at 1-1, following a service error by the Jaguars. Moore then delivered a kill assisted by Stern, putting Oakland briefly ahead. Despite mounting pressure, the Golden Grizzlies struggled to maintain momentum as the Jaguars capitalized on strong offense to extend their lead. Outside hitter Ella Martin made significant contributions with two kills, helping Oakland narrow the gap to 10 points. However, IU Indy's consistent attacks ultimately secured the set, finishing with a 25-14 advantage.

The second set opened with the Golden Grizzlies fighting back, highlighted by a crucial run where Bates delivered three consecutive service aces, helping the team pull ahead by two. Despite trailing initially, Bates' efforts, combined with strong kills from Moore and middle blocker Grace Cooney, allowed Oakland to remain competitive and tie the score at 7-7. However, the Jaguars responded with an effective attack, regaining control and extending their lead. Oakland continued to fight back with notable contributions from Martin and outside hitter Olivia Rust, narrowing the gap. Ultimately, the set concluded with the Jaguars prevailing.

Oakland made a significant push in the third set, highlighted by a series of key plays from Rust and Zapp. Zapp's kill, assisted by Stern, and a subsequent service ace helped Oakland level the score at 12 apiece. Oakland continued to challenge IU Indy, with Cooney and Moore contributing crucial kills to keep the score tight. Despite trailing midway through the set, Oakland managed to tie the score at 23-23, capitalizing on the Jaguars' attacking errors. However, the Jaguars ultimately secured the set with with two back-to-back points and took the match.

Oakland will head to Cleveland for their final midweek match of the season to face Cleveland State, Tuesday, October 28. First serve is set for 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+.


How to Follow Oakland Volleyball: For complete information on Oakland Volleyball, follow the team on X at @OaklandWVB and head coach Krista Rice at @KKg1007. The team is also on Instagram.