Chambana Sun

Illinois earned its first win of the 2025 women's volleyball season by defeating Vanderbilt 3-1 at the Sprouts Farmers Market Broadway Block Party held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. After losing the first set, Illinois won the next three with scores of 25-17, 25-23, and 25-15.

The match marked a milestone for head coach Chris Tamas, who reached his 150th career win. He is now one of four coaches in program history to reach this mark, joining Mike Hebert (323), Don Hardin (234), and Kevin Hambly.

Taylor de Boer led Illinois with a career-high 17 kills on a .425 hitting percentage. She also contributed four digs and two blocks. Alyssa Aguayo recorded her second double-double in as many matches to start her collegiate career, finishing with 12 kills, 12 digs, four assists, and a block.

Auburn Tomkinson added eight kills along with four digs, four blocks, and an ace. Kayla Burbage posted three kills, six digs, six blocks, and two service aces.

In the opening set, Illinois took an early lead but Vanderbilt responded with a significant scoring run to claim the frame. The Illini shifted momentum in the second set by starting strong and maintaining their advantage after forcing an early timeout from Vanderbilt. They went on to tie the match at one set each.

Illinois continued their strong play in sets three and four. Despite challenges from Vanderbilt that narrowed leads late in both sets, Illinois closed out each frame for the victory.

This win was Illinois’ first over an SEC opponent since August 28, 2022 against Ole Miss. It also marks their first-ever matchup—and victory—against Vanderbilt. The team is now even in neutral-site matches this season.

Illinois will continue its road schedule next weekend with games against Notre Dame on Friday and No. 4 Louisville on Sunday.

Chris Tamas said: "Head coach Chris Tamas earned his 150th win as a head coach, all of which have come at the helm of the Fighting Illini."