Chambana Sun

Illinois volleyball faced a challenging match against Minnesota at Maturi Pavilion on Friday night, resulting in a straight-set loss. The defeat brought the Fighting Illini's season record to 16-13 and their Big Ten play record to 11-8. Meanwhile, the Golden Gophers improved their season standing to 16-11 with a league mark of 12-7.

Raina Terry led Illinois offensively with an impressive 18 kills. Brooke Mosher contributed significantly with 27 assists and narrowly missed a double-double by one dig. Cari Bohm was notable at the net with five blocks, while Caroline Barnes recorded 22 digs, marking the seventh time she has achieved over 20 digs in her career.

The match began with Illinois struggling as Minnesota scored the first five points. Despite efforts to rally back, including an ace from Barnes that narrowed the gap, Illinois lost the first set 25-20. The second set saw more competition with ten ties and four lead changes; however, Illinois fell short again, losing 25-21.

In the third set, Illinois initially gained an edge thanks to Jessica Nunge's service but eventually succumbed to Minnesota's momentum, losing 25-17 despite Terry's efforts to fend off match point.

Looking ahead, Illinois will face Northwestern for their regular-season finale at Welsh-Ryan Arena. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start on B1G+.

Noteworthy aspects of this match included:

- Starting lineup: Brooke Mosher, Raina Terry, Kayla Burbage, Kennedy Collins, Lily Barry, Cari Bohm and Caroline Barnes.

- This lineup now holds a record of 6-5.

- The team wore long-sleeved navy jerseys for this match.

- Historically against Minnesota, Illinois' record is now at 39 wins and 45 losses with one tie.

- Head coach Chris Tamas has a current record of one win against ten losses versus Minnesota.

- In three-set matches this season, Illinois stands at five wins and seven losses.

- During this match’s opening frame alone they served six aces.

"Attendance on Friday night was called at 5,008."