Chambana Sun

Illinois volleyball team faced a challenging match against Washington, resulting in a straight-set loss at the Alaska Airlines Center. This defeat leaves the Fighting Illini with an 8-4 record for the season and 0-2 in Big Ten league play. Washington, receiving votes in the latest American Volleyball Coaches Association Poll, maintained their unbeaten streak, advancing to 12-0 overall and 2-0 in conference action.

Several players from Illinois made notable contributions during the game. Brooke Mosher, Averie Hernandez, and Raina Terry each recorded at least one ace. Hernandez led the team defensively with ten digs. Cari Bohm contributed five kills and five blocks, while Ashlyn Philpot achieved a team-best of seven kills along with four blocks.

The match began with Illinois conceding the first four points, allowing Washington to gain momentum early on. The Illini called for a timeout when trailing 12-5 but continued to struggle with errors leading to a 25-15 loss in the first set.

In an attempt to recover in the second set, Illinois managed a brief lead after a 4-0 run sparked by Mosher's serves. Despite holding a slight advantage at the media break with 15-14, Washington fought back fiercely. Although Illinois reached set point first due to a Husky error, Washington responded with a decisive run to take the set 30-28.

The final set saw Illinois call an early timeout after falling behind 8-3 following another Husky run. Despite efforts to close the gap, they were unable to counteract Washington's .412 hitting percentage and succumbed to a 25-17 defeat.

Looking ahead, Illinois volleyball is preparing for their next challenge against #2 Nebraska on Thursday as part of "Stuff Huff."

Additional notes from this matchup include:

- Starting lineup featured Raina Terry, Brooke Mosher, Averie Hernandez, Cari Bohm, Ashlyn Philpot, Laynie Smith, and Christina Martinez Mundo.

- The Illini wore long-sleeved orange jerseys and are now 1-2 when wearing them.

- The team's historical record against Washington is now at three wins and five losses.

- Head Coach Chris Tamas holds an all-time record of two wins and four losses against the Huskies.

- Bohm's performance marked her season high in kills.

- Attendance for this match was recorded at 3,575.