Bears battle tough in straight-set loss to Wildcats.

Friday, September 12

Santa Barbara, Calif.

8 p.m. (7 p.m. PT)

University of Northern Colorado

2-6,0-0Big Sky

Kansas State

5-1,0-0Big 12

Northern Colo.

Kansas St.

9/12/2025 9:45:00 PM | Women's Volleyball

Box Score

By: Elian Soto, Assistant Director of Strategic Communications

Santa Barbara, Calif. – The Northern Colorado volleyball team came up short in a hard-fought three-set battle against Kansas State on Friday night at the Thunderdome Classic, hosted by UC Santa Barbara. Despite the 3-0 final (25-21, 25-20, 25-21), the Bears showed competitive fire and grit in every set.

Taking the court for the second night in a row, UNC played with urgency and intensity, responding well to the Wildcats' style of play. The Bears kept each set within reach, staying locked in through long rallies and capitalizing on opportunities with strong serving and disciplined defense. The match was a showcase of UNC's toughness, as they continued to fight back from deficits and make Kansas State earn every point.

Leading the offensive effort was Alayna Tessena, who once again made her presence felt with a team-high 11 kills. Defensively, the Bears were anchored by a collective effort, recording 31 total digs as multiple players stepped up with key saves to extend rallies and keep the match close.

Although the Bears didn't come away with the win, their performance reflects a team that continues to grow in confidence and chemistry. The group now turns its focus to the final match of the weekend, as they prepare for a third straight night of action against host UC Santa Barbara.

First serve is set for 2 P.M. MT, and the Bears will look to bounce back and close out the Thunderdome Classic on a high note.

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