Colorado State University’s women’s volleyball team concluded its 50th season and final year in the Mountain West conference with a loss to Utah State in the Mountain West Championship match. The game, held at The Pavilion in Las Vegas on Saturday, ended with Utah State defeating Colorado State in straight sets: 25-16, 25-20, and 25-19.
The opening set began with both teams appearing evenly matched before Utah State established an early lead. Colorado State responded with a run highlighted by kills from Kekua Richards and Eve Wilson, narrowing the score to 5-4. Despite these efforts, Utah State regained control and won the first set 25-16.
In the second set, Colorado State fell behind early after a service ace and attack error but managed to close the gap to 7-9 through points that included a kill by Erin Debiec. Maria Brun delivered a key service ace to tie the set at 11-11 and went on to record three aces during the match. However, Utah State recovered momentum with significant plays from Mara Stiglic and secured the second set at 25-20.
During the third set, Colorado State tried to turn things around with strong performances from Brun, who contributed two consecutive service aces as they closed within one point of Utah State. Despite their efforts, Utah State maintained its advantage and finished the match with a 25-19 win.
Richards led Colorado State’s offense with nine kills out of twenty attempts. Debiec directed play for her team by providing thirty-one assists while Brun added eleven kills along with her three service aces. Defensively, Aine Doty recorded nine digs for the Rams.
Both Richards and Debiec were named to the Mountain West All-Tournament team after their performances—an honor marking their first selection for this recognition.
Looking ahead, Colorado State will transition into its inaugural PAC-12 season next year.
