South Bend, IN – The IU South Bend women's volleyball team engaged in a grueling, five-set match against Saint Xavier University on Tuesday afternoon at the Student Activities Center, ultimately falling just short in a 3-2 decision.

The Titans (5-15, 1-5 CCAC) showcased incredible resolve, fighting tooth and nail through every frame, but the visiting Cougars (9-4, 7-1 CCAC) secured the victory with set scores of 26-28 (IUSB), 25-19 (SXU), 18-25 (IUSB), 25-18 (SXU), and 15-11 (SXU).

The match started with a thrilling first set, with the Titans battling through extra points to claim a crucial 28-26 advantage and take the early 1-0 lead. After dropping the second set, IUSB responded dominant in the third, controlling the action for a 25-18 victory and a 2-1 lead in the match. Unfortunately, the Titans could not sustain the momentum, as Saint Xavier rebounded with strong performances in the fourth set (25-18) and secured the deciding fifth set (15-11).

Freshman Alyssa Carson led the charge for the Titans with a match-high 15 kills, while sophomore Emalee Maesch delivered 13 kills and showcased efficiency on the pins. Setter Brynn Lake orchestrated the offense, distributing 35 assists to her attackers while also adding 13 digs and two service aces.

Defensively, the Titans showed improvement, totaling 92 digs as a team. Senior defensive specialist Sydney Hanna anchored the back row, racking up 25 digs for the Titans. She was supported by Maesch with 16 digs and Emily Adams with 15 digs. At the net, Kendall Gerdes recorded a team-leading three total blocks (one solo, two assists) to disrupt the Cougar attack.

IU South Bend will be in action next on at nationally ranked, #16 Viterbo. Game time is set for 2:00 PM Eastern Time.