UWM Panther Arena | Milwaukee Athletics
UWM Panther Arena | Milwaukee Athletics
Milwaukee's volleyball team continued its strong performance in the Horizon League, achieving a 5-0 record with a decisive victory over IU Indianapolis Jaguars. The match, held at the Klotsche Center, ended in straight sets for Milwaukee with scores of 25-17, 25-18, and 25-16.
The Panthers achieved their best hitting percentage of the season at .380, recording 40 kills and just five errors. Madi Malone led the team with 15 kills and a .577 hitting percentage. Other contributors included Bri Geurts with eight kills, Natalie Schmitz with seven, Rachel Scott with five, and Alexis Lewis with four.
"Our attacking unit has been working hard and approaching with a lot of confidence," said Susie Johnson on the offensive effort. "We had a lot working for us on the passing side as well, especially against their tough service."
Josie Johnson led Milwaukee in assists with 17, followed by Milica Tomic who had 14 assists and Kati Goba who added three. Goba also excelled in serving with three aces.
Defensively, Milwaukee outperformed IU Indy in blocks by a margin of 6-1. Kara Erdmann led in digs with 13 while Malone recorded her eighth double-double of the year with ten digs.
"We were very disciplined and efficient on the defensive side," added Johnson. "We were redirecting their attempts and allowing our passers to dig the ball well. Our defensive scheme worked well against IU Indy."
The match saw Milwaukee take an early lead thanks to strong serves from Goba. Despite some resistance from IU Indy during each set, strategic plays by players like Lewis and Schmitz ensured that Milwaukee maintained control throughout.
"After four points in a row with one of their best servers up, I took the timeout to and said we needed to execute at a higher level," said Johnson.
IU Indy's efforts were highlighted by Briana Brown's nine kills and Grace Purichia's 19 assists. Jordan Pax contributed significantly on defense with 14 digs.
Looking ahead, Milwaukee will travel to Northern Kentucky for upcoming league matches scheduled for Friday at 5:00 p.m. (CT) and Saturday at 1:00 p.m. (CT).