The second-ranked University of Hawai'i men's volleyball team staged a comeback against No. 5 UC Irvine, overcoming a 2-1 deficit to win in five sets (25-22, 19-25, 23-25, 25-23, 18-16) at the Bren Events Center. This victory improved Hawai'i's road record to 8-0 and solidified their 5-0 standing in the Big West Conference. Tread Rosenthal nearly achieved a triple-double with 53 assists, while Kristian Titriyski led with 16 kills. The match showcased strong performances from key players, setting the stage for an anticipated rematch Saturday.

By the Numbers
  • Hawai'i hit .325 in the match compared to .304 for UCI.
  • Tread Rosenthal contributed 53 assists, 10 digs, and 9 kills.
  • Kristian Titriyski led with 16 kills, while Trevell Jordan recorded a .750 hitting percentage (12 kills, 0 errors).
Yes, But

Despite the thrilling comeback, UH struggled at times, particularly in the second and third sets when UCI capitalized on their errors. The match highlighted both teams' strengths, with UCI showcasing powerful hitting but ultimately faltering in critical moments. This underscores the competitive nature of the conference and the potential for surprises in future matchups.

State of Play
  • Hawai'i's current conference record stands at 5-0, maintaining their top ranking.
  • The team has won 10 of its last 11 matches against UCI in Irvine.
  • This match was marked by intense rallies and multiple momentum shifts.
What's Next

The two teams will face off again Saturday, presenting UCI an opportunity to adjust tactics and battle back after their close loss. Hawai'i aims to stay undefeated in conference play and secure another victory against a formidable opponent.

Bottom Line

The Rainbow Warriors showcased resilience and teamwork, emphasizing their championship caliber. The upcoming rematch is crucial for both teams, with implications for conference standings and team confidence going forward. Expect another tightly contested match filled with high-stakes action.