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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Michigan State Volleyball Secures First Big Ten Victory
Michigan State Volleyball Announces Non-Conference Schedule
Tom Izzo’s Spartans Face Consecutive Losses
East Lansing Volleyball Program Announces Coaching Change as Leah Johnson Steps Down
Additional Resources
- Illinois Volleyball: Annual Pink Match
- Michigan State Volleyball: Five Set Loss at Illinois
- Michigan State Volleyball: Road Victory at Northwestern
- Google Search: Illinois Volleyball
- SIUE Cougars Volleyball: Nonconference Wrap-Up
Author: STAFF HERE PLYMOUTH WRITER
The PLYMOUTH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPlymouth.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Plymouth, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Plymouth Ice Festival, Art in the Park, and the Plymouth Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Plymouth, plus leading businesses in automotive and retail that power the local economy such as Roush Industries and Downtown Plymouth businesses. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HERENovi.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
