In a landmark achievement for the Indiana volleyball program, the team has advanced to the Sweet 16, marking only the second time in its history. The Hoosiers, now holding a record of 25 wins and 7 losses, secured their place by defeating the fifth-seeded Colorado team with set scores of 25-20, 25-17, and 25-23. This decisive victory took place on December 5 at Wilkinson Hall.
Key Players Shine in Victory
Senior outside hitter Candela Alonso-Corcelles delivered an outstanding performance, recording 16 kills with a remarkable hitting percentage of .556. She also contributed six digs, three assists, and two blocks. Freshman Jaidyn Jager supported strongly with 15 kills, hitting .375, alongside three digs, three assists, and a service ace. Senior opposite hitter Avry Tatum added eight kills while equating her season high with five blocks.
Defensive Dominance
Defensively, Indiana displayed immense pressure on the Colorado side throughout the match. The Hoosiers achieved 11 blocks in total, led by senior middle blocker Madi Sell, who had an impressive seven blocks. Colorado struggled offensively, finishing the match with a hitting percentage of .208.
Strategy and Critical Moments
- Jessica Smith, a graduate student outside hitter, made a significant impact after missing prior games. She served during a crucial 5-0 scoring run, aiding the team’s transition to a lead in the final set.
- Jaidyn Jager’s match-clinching 15th kill secured Indiana’s long-awaited advancement to the Sweet 16, their first since 2010.
Looking Ahead to the NCAA Regional Semifinals
As the Hoosiers await their next opponent, they are anticipated to face top-seeded Texas in the upcoming NCAA regional semifinals on either Thursday or Friday. All matches in this round will be broadcast on the ESPN family of networks.
Noteworthy Achievements
- This victory extends Indiana’s single-season program record in the NCAA era.
- Both instances of hosting postseason volleyball have seen the Hoosiers advance to the Sweet 16.
- Candela Alonso-Corcelles has set milestones, being the first true left-side attacker in IU’s history since 2008 to achieve at least 16 kills while maintaining a hitting percentage above .500.
- Jaidyn Jager ranks third among IU freshmen for single-season kills, tallying 374 in her debut campaign.
The Indiana volleyball team looks to build on its momentum as the 2025 Sweet 16 Tournament looms ahead, demonstrating impressive skill and teamwork throughout their recent matches.
