ONU SECURES FINAL REGULAR SEASON WIN

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL. ­- Olivet Nazarene University's men's volleyball team capped off their regular season in style on Saturday morning, battling back from an early deficit to defeat Cumberland University 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-19, 25-20).

The first set was a tightly contested affair. Both teams traded points relentlessly, showcasing impressive offensive firepower. However, costly errors at inopportune moments proved detrimental for ONU, allowing Cumberland to capitalize and steal the opening set 25-23.

Undeterred by the early setback, ONU emerged from the break with renewed focus and determination. The Tigers' offense, led by Brody McAfee (17 kills) and Kahaku Marquez (12 kills, 2 blocks, 2 assisted blocks), came alive. Setter Tomas Gonzalez (39 assists) orchestrated the attack with precision, distributing the ball effectively and keeping all options involved. Defensively, the Tigers tightened up at the net, forcing Cumberland into errors. This collective effort propelled ONU to a convincing 25-22 victory in the second set, tying the match score at 1-1. 

The momentum shifted decisively in ONU's favor from that point on. The Tigers dominated play in the third and fourth sets, extending their lead throughout both sets with a relentless offensive attack. ONU's serving game also came alive, creating pressure on the Cumberland reception and forcing them out of system. The Tigers secured comfortable victories in both sets, 25-19 and 25-20, to claim the match 3-1.

Looking Ahead

The Tigers will now set their sights on the postseason, hosting St. Ambrose University in the first round of the CCAC Tournament on April 16th. The game time has yet to be determined. 

--ONU—

*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu