FRANKLIN, Ind. — The Mount St. Joseph University men's volleyball team fought through a tightly contested five-set match on the road but ultimately fell to Franklin College Wednesday evening.
MATCH ONE: MSJ 2 – FRANKLIN 3 (25-23, 23-25, 20-25, 25-18, 9-15)
The Lions opened the match with a strong showing in the first set, executing efficiently on offense and maintaining composure in the closing points to secure a narrow 25-23 victory. Sophomore Carson Reed led the offensive effort with 13 kills on 31 total attempts while also contributing defensively with 12 digs to record a double-double. Freshman Will Croft added 11 kills on 21 swings, providing a consistent scoring option throughout the match.
Franklin responded in the second set, edging the Lions 25-23 in another tightly contested frame. The momentum carried into the third set for the Grizzlies, who claimed a 25-20 win as both teams continued to trade points through extended rallies.
Mount St. Joseph answered back in the fourth set with one of its most complete performances of the night. The Lions controlled the pace from the start and capitalized on key scoring runs to earn a convincing 25-18 victory, forcing a decisive fifth set.
In the final set, Franklin was able to build an early advantage and maintain it down the stretch, taking the set 15-9 to secure the match victory.
Sophomore Brayden Bass helped guide the Lions' offense with 27 assists, distributing the ball across multiple attacking options. Junior Roger Wilcox made an impact from the service line with four aces while adding eight digs defensively. Sophomore Sean Murray also anchored the back row with 12 digs as the Lions continued to battle through long rallies throughout the match.
UP NEXT: The Lions return to action Monday, March 9, traveling to New York, N.Y. to face Yeshiva University at 7:00 p.m.
