The Basics
Score: MNU 3 – William Penn 0
Record: MNU (14-4, 9-1), WPU (14-14, 4-9)
Location: Olathe, Kan. – Cook Center

OLATHE, Kan. – MNU continued its strong run through Heart of America play Friday night, sweeping William Penn 25-17, 25-22, 25-21 to improve to 9-1 in conference action. The Pioneers hit .168 as a team and leaned on a deep, balanced offense and an impressive defensive effort anchored by sophomore libero Emily Mathis, who recorded 16 digs to surpass 1,000 for her career.

MNU started poorly in each set, requiring significant comebacks in each to earn the sweep. Avery Lowe led the way with 13 kills and a .212 hitting percentage, while Isabella Munari added 11 kills and 14 digs for a solid two-way performance. Mia Mia Olson was strong at the net, posting 10 kills on .444 hitting and contributing to three blocks, while Pavlina Pelcova added five kills and three blocks of her own.

The Pioneers' setting duo of Alex Thomas and Callie Winebarger kept the attack balanced - Thomas tallied 20 assists, and Winebarger chipped in 16 assists, two aces, and seven digs. MNU's service game was also sharp, totaling eight aces on the night, including 3 from Mathis and 2 from Nayeli Rodriguez.

Turning Point
MNU's comeback in the second set - rallying from a 7-1 hole to take a 2-0 match lead.

Individual Leaders

• Avery Lowe: 13 kills (.212), 4 blocks, 14 points

• Isabella Munari: 11 kills, 14 digs, 11 points

• Mia Olson: 10 kills (.444), 3 blocks, 12.5 points

• Alex Thomas: 20 assists, 1 ace, 7 digs

• Callie Winebarger: 16 assists, 2 aces, 7 digs

• Emily Mathis: 16 digs, 3 aces – eclipsed 1,000 career digs

Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home vs. #19 Grand View (22-1, 12-0) at 2:00.