VALPARAISO, Ind. – The Belmont University volleyball team (13-5, 4-3) battled through a five-set marathon Friday night at the Athletics–Recreation Center, but ultimately fell to Valparaiso 3–2 in a tightly contested Missouri Valley Conference matchup. Despite leading in nearly every statistical category, the Bruins couldn't close out the Beacons in a hard-fought road effort.
Belmont opened strong, taking the first set 25–22 behind key late points from Mialee Dabbelt, Erin McMullen, and Bella Mathis, who sealed the frame with a block. The Bruins' defense locked in during the second set, anchored by standout libero Lilly Lutz and a commanding front-line presence from Mathis. Dominant swings from Brooke Gilleland fueled a convincing 25–17 set win to go up 2–0.
Valparaiso answered with renewed energy in the third and fourth sets, capitalizing on timely tips and strong net play to even the match at 2–2. Belmont saw contributions across the lineup, including key blocks from Brenna Kauffeld, kills from Lucy Kay, and solid efforts from Hayden McGehee, Teagan Brandsma, and Emily Warmenhoven off the bench.
In the decisive fifth set, the Bruins jumped ahead 5–2 before a late Valpo rally flipped momentum. The Beacons surged back with a strong offensive finish to take the final frame 15–9 and the match.
What's Bruin:
Up Next:
Belmont volleyball continues its road trip, heading to Chicago to take on UIC on Saturday, October 18 at 5 p.m. CT inside Credit Union 1 Arena. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.
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