The No. 9 California beach volleyball team split their duals during the first day of the Death Volley Invitational, winning 3-2 against Boise State but losing 4-1 to No. 6 Florida State. The Bears secured wins in the No. 4 and No. 5 spots against Boise State, with Emma Donley and Portia Sherman clinching the victory in the top position. However, against Florida State, Cal only secured one win through Marilu Pally and Grace Hong. The team continues the tournament with duals against Georgia State and No. 4 Texas on Saturday.

By the Numbers
  • California's record now stands at 12-7 after the duals.
  • Marilu Pally and Grace Hong achieved a straight-set victory of 21-10, 21-11 against Florida State.
State of Play
  • California's wins against Boise State came in straight sets at two lower positions.
  • Donley and Sherman faced the nation's top-ranked pair against Florida State and lost in a tight contest.
What's Next

California will face Georgia State and No. 4 Texas in their remaining matches at the Death Volley Invitational, looking to improve their overall record.

Bottom Line

The Bears must leverage their performance against lower-ranked teams while improving against top competition to enhance their standings in the season ahead.