OGDEN, Utah – The Belmont University volleyball team opened the 2026 season in dramatic fashion Friday afternoon, rallying from a two-set deficit to defeat San Jose State in five sets at the Wildcat Invitational. The Bruins showcased a balanced offensive attack, strong serve receive and timely defense to complete the reverse sweep, earning the 3–2 victory by scores of 19–25, 18–25, 25–18, 25–23 and 15–12.
After San Jose State used its offensive momentum to claim the opening two sets, Belmont regrouped and found its rhythm midway through the match. The Bruins made a switch to a 6–1 offense in the third frame and responded with 15 kills to take control, cutting the Spartans' match advantage in half with a 25–18 third-set victory.
Belmont continued its momentum in a tightly contested fourth set. The two teams traded leads throughout the frame before the Bruins built a 22–18 advantage. San Jose State responded to pull within one at 22–21, but Belmont delivered to secure the 25–23 win and force a fifth set. Emily Warmenhoven, Erin McMullen, and Brenna Kauffeld each recorded four kills in the frame, while key blocks from McMullen and Alexia Smollen helped shift the momentum in Belmont's favor.
The Bruins carried that energy into the deciding set, jumping out to an early 3–0 lead. The Spartans continued to battle, but Belmont maintained its composure in the closing points. A challenge on match point was ruled in the Bruins' favor, sealing the 15–12 victory and completing the season-opening reverse sweep.
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Up Next
Belmont continues play at the Wildcat Invitational Saturday, Aug. 29, beginning with a 12:30 p.m. CT matchup against San Francisco before facing tournament host Weber State at 8:30 p.m. CT.
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