In a determined display of skill and teamwork, Indiana volleyball secured a four-set victory over Michigan on Wednesday at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington. The match showcased standout performances, particularly from junior outside hitter Candela Alonso-Corcelles, whose electrifying cross-court kills energized the team, and senior outside hitter Kenzie Daffinee, who delivered a precise service ace that grazed the back line.
Despite the win, Indiana’s hopes for an NCAA Tournament berth have dimmed, especially following a disappointing loss to Ohio State on Sunday, where the Hoosiers held a two sets to one lead. Head coach Steve Aird emphasized the importance of finishing the season strong for the seniors and the fans. “A lot of it comes back to playing hard and playing with emotion,” Aird said after the match. “I expect us to do that Friday.”
The match against Michigan was competitive, with the Wolverines pushing Indiana throughout. Michigan lost the first and fourth sets by margins of four points or fewer and claimed the second set in deuce. The Hoosiers dominated the third set, winning 25-18—their largest margin of victory.
Facing one of the top teams in the conference at the net, Indiana adapted its lineup, featuring sophomore middle blocker Ava Vickers in the starting rotation. Junior middle blocker Madi Sell led the defensive effort with five blocks. However, Michigan out-blocked Indiana 13-9 overall, with five blocks each in the first and third sets.
“I thought we struggled at times, but when we’re good, we’re blocking balls and playing good defense and then with the ability to transition,” Aird noted.
Indiana’s offense was highlighted by a balanced attack, with the Hoosiers recording 61 kills compared to Michigan’s 45. Alonso-Corcelles shone with a career-high 25 kills, marking her third consecutive match with 20 or more kills. The last Indiana player to reach 25 kills in a match was junior outside hitter Avry Tatum against Ball State on September 14.
“It’s a group to be around,” Alonso-Corcelles said. “We are smiling all the time and have fun, and that for me is the most important thing—having fun on the court.”
Senior setter Camryn Haworth played a crucial role in Alonso-Corcelles’s success, providing 46 assists and surpassing 1,000 assists for the third consecutive season. “I think she’d be the first to tell you that Camryn has got the ball to her,” Aird remarked. “She’s just been playing really good volleyball.”
Indiana will conclude its season with a match against Illinois at 7 p.m. on Friday at Wilkinson Hall, which will also serve as senior night for seven players. The match can be viewed on Big Ten+.
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