Truman State wrapped up the Pittsburg State Tournament on Saturday with two matches, dropping decisions to Missouri Western and Pittsburg State. The Bulldogs battled to the final points in both contests, showing resilience in a close third set against the Griffons and a strong opening frame against the host Gorillas.

Missouri Western 3, Truman 0 (25-21, 25-21, 27-25)

Missouri Western's consistency proved the difference in the opening two sets, as the Griffons took both frames 25-21. Truman stayed close throughout, with Jessie Julius supplying timely kills and Autumn Erickson providing a steady presence at the net.

The third set featured some of the best volleyball of the tournament for Truman. The Bulldogs and Griffons traded points through a series of ties and lead changes, with Julius and Makayla Way delivering kills to keep Truman narrowly in front late. Setter Molly Lambert kept the offense balanced, spreading opportunities across multiple hitters. Missouri Western responded with a late surge to claim a 27-25 win and close out the match.

Pittsburg State 3, Truman 0 (25-23, 25-20, 25-12)

Against the host Gorillas, Truman played a competitive opening set, pulling even at 23-23 before Pitt State claimed the final two points. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Truman within striking distance until a late Pitt State push made it 25-20.

The third set was controlled by the Gorillas, who limited Truman's attack options and pulled away for a 25-12 win to seal the sweep. Despite the result, the Bulldogs found production from multiple hitters and steadiness in the back row, led by their defensive specialists.

Key Stats

• Vs. Missouri Western (3-0):

  • Kills: Jessie Julius (11), Autumn Erickson (9)

  • Assists: Molly Lambert (30)

  • Digs: Jessica Proszenyak (11), Lambert (9)

  • Team totals: 35 kills, 6 aces, 45 digs

• Vs. Pittsburg State (3-0):

  • Kills: Julius (10), Erickson (8)

  • Assists: Mia Creason (27)

  • Digs: Proszenyak (12), Creason (9)

  • Team totals: 31 kills, 7 aces, 48 digs, .124 hitting percentage

Looking Ahead

Truman showed positive stretches throughout the day, particularly in the third set against Missouri Western and the opening set versus Pittsburg State. Balanced scoring from Julius and Erickson, combined with steady back-row contributions from Proszenyak, gave the Bulldogs a foundation to build on. The Bulldogs continue tournament play and will play another four matches over a two day stretch at Washburn next Friday and Saturday.

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