Penn State Women’s Volleyball Wins Share of Big Ten Title

Penn State women’s volleyball claimed a share of the Big Ten title Saturday night in Minneapolis thanks to a 3-1 road win over No. 8 Minnesota. The conference championship is the program’s 17th.

The unanimous No. 1 Nittany Lions beat the Golden Gophers 29-27, 25-20, 24-26, 25-20 to close out the regular season at 29-1, splitting the conference crown with Nebraska.

How It Happened

Penn State eked out a close victory in the first set with a huge kill from Haleigh Washington and a costly attack error on Minnesota. The Nittany Lions extended their lead to 2-0 behind a clutch 10-6 rally in the middle of the second frame.

Washington and Simone Lee delivered two of their biggest matches of the season in the victory, combining for 41 of Penn State’s 67 kills. Stephanie Samedy paced the Golden Gophers with a match-high 22 kills and 13 digs to round out the double-double.

The Nittany Lions outblocked Minnesota 18-8 courtesy of dominant performances above the net from Washington and redshirt sophomore Tori Gorrell, who led all players with nine blocks. Ali Frantti turned in a strong defensive showing with a match-high 17 digs.

Player Of The Match

Haleigh Washington | Senior | Middle blocker

Washington was phenomenal against the Golden Gophers, recording a team-high 21 kills, seven blocks, five digs, a service ace, and an assist.

What’s Next?

The NCAA announces its field of 64 who will compete for the national championship Sunday at 9 p.m. on ESPNU.