Tied at a set apiece, Pittsburgh had four chances to seal the third set and take command of the match. Pittsburgh led 24-23, but Louisville unleashed outside hitter Anna DeBeer. She smashed a crosscourt kill to tie it at 24-24. After a Torrey Stafford kill, Pitt got another chance to close the set. Louisville went with the same formula: Elena Scott serve receive, Nayelis Cabello set, DeBeer crosscourt kill to tie the match at 25. Pitt was ahead 26-25 when Olivia Babcock's powerful jump serve clipped the tape. Scott stuck her platform underneath the ball and popped it up. Sofia Maldonado Diaz sent an out-of-system set to DeBeer, who delivered yet again, this time down the center of the court. A kill by Stafford gave Pitt its final chance at 27-26. This time, Charitie Luper delivered the crosscourt kill to tie it at 27. An ace by Kamden Schrand gave Louisville the only set point it would need. Phekran Kong and Cabello blocked a Pitt attack and gave Louisville the third set and a direct path to victory. 'It really showed that we wanted it more,' Luper said. 'And we're never afraid to back away from a fight.'
Nebraska was up two sets to one on Penn State when Rebekah Allick came out of the middle for a kill attempt. Penn State’s defense was tested as they fought to stay alive. With the match on the line and the pressure soaring, Penn State managed to stave off elimination. They showcased resilience and strategic plays that turned the tide. The Nittany Lions saved two match points, demonstrating their determination and tenacity in the face of adversity. The crowd erupted with each point, as it became clear that Penn State was not ready to concede defeat.
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