ATLANTA – Going into a fifth set for the first time this season, Kennesaw State volleyball nearly rallied from several deficits, before eventually falling at Georgia State 3-2 (20-25, 25-23, 17-25, 25-21, 9-15) on Thursday night. It marked the first loss of the season for the Owls, and their first setback to Georgia State in the past four meetings.
STAT OF THE GAME: Errors were an issue for the Owls in the contest, as they finished with 38 errors and a 0.79 hitting percentage, while Georgia State recorded just 22 and hit .198.
THE RUNDOWN – The Owls came out strong at the start battling alongside Georgia State before ultimately falling by five in the first set. The Panthers continued their strong play in the second set, taking a 10-2. KSU responded, climbing back into the set and finishing with seven of the final nine points to tie the match at 1-1.
The back and forward battle continues in the next two sets, with GSU claiming set three, while the Owls grabbed a set four win to send the match to the deciding fifth. KSU and the Panthers were tied at 6-6 in the fifth, until a game-deciding 5-0 run for GSU lead them to the victory.
POSTGAME QUOTES
KSU HEAD COACH KEITH SCHUNZEL
"First, credit to Jorge and the GSU staff for putting a really nice team together in a very short period of time. That team carries themselves well and very confidently for being so new together. And that is something that our team is definitely searching how to consistently do. Our lack of overall confidence at times in that match really stood out to me, which is expected out of such a new, young group. But something we'll need to address and improve on."
Our ladies did some really good things at times tonight and we gave ourselves a chance to win set 5 on the road. But our block and defense is nowhere near the level it needs to be, and our transition offense and overall aggressiveness offensively needs to drastically improve. We'll learn, grow and move on. We are excited about Griffin's Game tomorrow night. "
NOTES
NEXT TIME OUT
Kennesaw State returns to action on Friday for its annual Griffin's Game, which will start at 6 p.m. in VyStar Arena. Tickets are $10 for the event, and can be bought online or at the door, while the game will also be streamed live on ESPN+.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
