October 7, 2025

Illinois Volleyball Triumphs Over Michigan State

News Summary

The University of Illinois volleyball team showcased their skills with a thrilling five-set victory against Michigan State, improving their conference record significantly. With Illinois demonstrating superior performance in key statistics, the match highlighted the strength of both teams. Notable performances included key players from both sides contributing to the intensity of the game. The match also served as a Pink Match in support of breast cancer awareness, adding significance to the victory. This win extends Illinois’ long-standing dominance over Michigan State in their historical meetings.

Champaign, Illinois – The University of Illinois volleyball team achieved a thrilling five-set victory against Michigan State on October 4, 2025, improving their record to 8-5 overall and 3-1 in Big Ten play. The set scores were 25-22, 24-26, 25-18, 26-28, and 15-5, marking a significant bounce-back from their previous conference defeat.

Following this match, Michigan State’s record dropped to 12-2 overall and 2-2 in Big Ten action. Illinois showcased their strength, outperforming Michigan State in key statistics with a total of 71 kills to Michigan State’s 58, 11.5 total blocks compared to 5, and 69 digs against Michigan State’s 53.

Junior outside hitter Karolina Stansizewska had an outstanding performance for Michigan State, leading her team with 17 kills at a remarkable hitting percentage of .406. She also contributed six digs and three service aces. Additionally, freshman outside hitter Bianca Mumcular added 15 kills, marking her fifth double-digit kill outing in the last six matches. Junior middle blocker Zuzanna Kulig recorded a season-high 11 kills while hitting .500, along with three blocks.

On the Illinois side, Taylor de Boer led the team’s offensive attack with 13 kills while maintaining a .360 hitting percentage, supported by three digs and a block. Freshman setter Malayah Long notched her sixth double-double of the season, leading with 47 assists and matching that with 47 digs. Another notable contribution came from the redshirt freshman as she has already amassed 495 assists and 112 digs through 13 matches this season.

Additionally, Illinois players Auburn Tomkinson and Alyssa Aguayo contributed significantly with seven and six kills, respectively, while Aguayo also recorded six digs. Kenzie Cogan achieved a career-high with 10 digs, further strengthening the Illini’s defense.

The match served as the annual Pink Match at Huff Hall, supporting breast cancer awareness. Illinois was eager for this matchup as they sought redemption following their first conference loss to No. 7 Wisconsin earlier this season. The victory against Michigan State also extended Illinois’ impressive eight-match winning streak against them, with their last loss dating back to December 8, 2017.

Ranked 10th in the nation before this match, Illinois previously secured a notable win against No. 10 Purdue, marking their first victory against a top-10 opponent since 2021. Following the conclusion of this match, the historical series between Illinois and Michigan State now stands at 86 all-time meetings, with Illinois leading 57-28 since 1975.

Michigan State will look to recover from this defeat as they prepare for their upcoming home contest against Iowa on October 10, 2025. The team and fans are hopeful for a resurgence and continued improvement in their season performance.