DENVER – No. 19 MSU Denver volleyball came within two points of completing a Friday-night sweep, but Colorado Mesa rallied to claim a heartbreaking five-set victory, 25-27, 19-25, 25-19, 25-20, 15-7, on Friday at the Auraria Event Center.
The Roadrunners (6-5, 2-1 RMAC) controlled the opening two sets before the Mavericks (9-2, 3-0 RMAC) stormed back to take the final three and hand MSU Denver its first conference loss of the season.
Sophomore outside hitter Brooke Gennerman continued her remarkable start to the season, leading all players with a career-high 26 kills while hitting an impressive .373. The 26 kills mark the latest step in Gennerman's steady climb in career highs this season, following performances of 24 and 25 kills earlier this year. Gennerman's 176 kills this season lead the RMAC by a wide margin, with the next closest player entering the weekend at 144.
Gennerman was particularly effective early, helping the Roadrunners secure a thrilling opening-set victory. MSU Denver erased a late deficit to take the first set 27-25, then carried that momentum into the second, winning 25-19 to take a 2-0 lead.
Colorado Mesa answered in the third set, hitting .303 while pulling away late for a 25-19 victory. The Mavericks then forced a decisive fifth set by taking the fourth 25-20.
The Roadrunners struggled to regain their early rhythm in the fifth, as Colorado Mesa jumped ahead and closed the match with a 15-7 win.
Hayden Liebsack provided a strong second option offensively for MSU Denver with 14 kills, three block assists and five digs, while Mayah Pridgett added eight kills and three block assists.
Setter GabriElle Brewer orchestrated the Roadrunners' attack with 47 assists while also contributing 14 digs and a service ace. Mia Accomazzo added 12 digs, while Megan Hagar recorded nine and Aubrey Blake had 10.
Despite the loss, MSU Denver's offense finished with 60 kills compared to 49 for Colorado Mesa and hit .213 for the match. The Roadrunners also held a 56-53 advantage in digs.
MSU Denver will look to bounce back tomorrow when it returns to the Auraria Event Center to host Westminster. First serve is scheduled for 4 p.m.
