LONG BEACH, Calif. – The Warriors wrapped up a challenging two-game road series against No. 2-ranked Long Beach State on Friday night at the LBS Financial Credit Union Pyramid. For the second night in a row, the Warriors showcased flashes of high-level play but ultimately fell in a straight-set sweep (25-20, 25-20, 25-14).
The loss moves Jessup to 6-9 on the season as they conclude their non-conference trip to Southern California.
The opening frame saw the Warriors come out with aggressive energy, jumping to an early 2-0 lead behind a kill from Jacob Knudsen. The set remained a back-and-forth affair featuring seven ties and three lead changes as Jessup pushed the Beach deep into the set.
Jan Lopuch provided a spark from the service line with an ace to keep the Warriors within striking distance, but a late surge by the home team allowed Long Beach to take a 1-0 match lead.
Jessup continued to fight in the second set, fueled by the offensive efforts of Jonas Mueller and Owen Henning, who combined for several key kills to keep the score locked at 12-12 midway through.
Despite the Warriors' improved offensive rhythm, Long Beach State's defensive wall proved difficult to bypass as LB recorded five blocks in the set to regain momentum. The Warriors tallied 10 kills in the second frame, their highest offensive output of the night, but were unable to overcome a late service run by the hosting team.
In the final set, the Warriors struggled to find their footing as the Long Beach State defense intensified. Senior outside hitter Jan Lopuch finished the night as the team's leader with six kills and two service aces, while setter Colin Marks orchestrated the offense with 19 assists.
Defensively, Logan Marks led the back row with a match-high eight digs, and the duo of Clement Osahon Jr. and Owen Henning each contributed a block at the net.
The Warriors will continue their road trip to take on CSU Northridge on March 19th at 7:00 PM.
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About Jessup University Athletics Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).
