The Basics
Score: MNU 3, Baker 1 (25–21, 30–32, 27–25, 25–10)
Record: MNU (21–7), Baker (17–10)
Location: Olathe, Kan. – Cook Center
OLATHE, Kan. – #25 MNU opened postseason play with a tough 3–1 victory over Baker in the Heart of America Quarterfinals on Saturday afternoon.
Behind a dominant all-around effort from Isabella Munari, who tallied 20 kills and 3 aces, the Pioneers used a balanced attack and a lockdown defensive presence to advance to the conference semifinals. MNU hit .227 as a team while holding the Wildcats to under .100 in three of the four sets.
After dropping a marathon second set 32–30, the Pioneers regrouped with clutch play down the stretch, taking the third frame 27–25 before cruising through the fourth 25–10.
Alyssa Reichard and Mia Olson each posted 13 kills, with Olson adding 5 blocks. Setter Alex Thomas dished out 26 assists, while libero Emily Mathis anchored the defense with 25 digs.
Turning Point
In the third set, tied 25–25, MNU recorded back-to-back kills from Munari and Reichard to secure a 27–25 win, swinging momentum back in the Pioneers' favor.
Individual Leaders
Isabella Munari: 20 kills, 3 aces, 8 digs
Alyssa Reichard: 13 kills, 10 digs
Mia Olson: 13 kills, 5 blocks
Avery Lowe: 10 kills, 6 blocks
Alex Thomas: 26 assists, 10 digs
Emily Mathis: 25 digs
Up Next
The next match is the Heart Semifinals at #17 Missouri Baptist (27-5) on Tuesday at 7:00.
