Albuquerque NM, October 12, 2025

The New Mexico Lobos women’s volleyball team achieved a commanding 3-0 victory over Utah State at the Pit, improving their conference record to 5-1. Junior Mia Grant excelled with 15 kills and four blocks, while setter Jordan Linton provided 32 assists. This victory strengthens their position in the Mountain West Conference, highlighting the team’s growing momentum. Coach Kristen Joerger emphasized the importance of serving pressure in the match, which contributed to a decisive performance against their rivals.

New Mexico Lobos Women’s Volleyball Team Secures Key Conference Win

Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico Lobos women’s volleyball team delivered a decisive 3-0 sweep over Mountain West Conference rival Utah State on Saturday at the Pit. The straight-sets victory, with scores of 25-22, 25-20, and 25-18, strengthened the Lobos’ position in the conference standings, improving their record to 5-1.

This win highlights the team’s growing momentum in a competitive season. Junior outside hitter Mia Grant was the standout performer, recording 15 kills and four blocks to anchor the Lobos’ offense and defense. Setter Jordan Linton played a pivotal role in the team’s execution, providing 32 assists that facilitated key scoring runs. The Lobos’ improved serving pressure disrupted Utah State’s rhythm throughout the match, preventing any serious comebacks.

Match Breakdown and Key Moments

The first set remained tight until the Lobos pulled ahead late, capitalizing on a series of Utah State errors and Grant’s powerful kills to secure the 25-22 win. In the second set, Linton’s precise setting allowed for a more balanced attack, leading to a comfortable 25-20 margin. The third set saw the Lobos dominate from the start, using strong blocks and serves to build an early lead that Utah State could not overcome, ending 25-18.

Defensively, the team’s cohesion was evident, with multiple players contributing to a total of nine blocks as a unit. Offensively, the Lobos hit an efficient .245 percentage, showcasing their ability to convert opportunities against a resilient opponent. Utah State struggled with reception errors, which the Lobos exploited to maintain control.

Conference Implications and Team Progress

With this victory, the Lobos remain firmly in the hunt for the Mountain West Conference title. Their 5-1 record positions them near the top of the standings, with only one loss separating them from the leaders. The team has shown steady improvement since the start of conference play, winning four of their last five matches. This performance against Utah State demonstrates their capability to handle rivals on home court, boosting confidence as tougher challenges loom.

Coach Kristen Joerger’s emphasis on serving pressure paid off, transforming what could have been a drawn-out battle into a clean sweep. The Lobos’ home crowd at the Pit added energy, creating an intimidating atmosphere for the Aggies. This result not only adds two crucial points to UNM’s conference tally but also solidifies their reputation as a formidable force in the Mountain West.

Looking Ahead: Upcoming Schedule

The Lobos face a demanding stretch ahead, starting with a road trip to Nevada next weekend. Matches against strong opponents like the Wolf Pack will test their depth and road warrior mentality. Following that, the schedule includes home games against Fresno State and San Diego State, providing opportunities to build on this momentum. The team’s focus on maintaining defensive intensity and offensive variety will be critical as they aim to peak for the conference tournament.

Player Spotlights and Team Dynamics

Mia Grant’s 15 kills mark her highest output of the season, underscoring her emergence as a go-to scorer. Her four blocks also highlight her versatility, allowing the Lobos to control the net effectively. Jordan Linton’s 32 assists reflect her command of the offense, distributing the ball to multiple hitters and keeping Utah State’s defense off-balance. Beyond the stars, the Lobos’ bench provided solid support, with substitutions maintaining energy levels across all sets.

The victory comes at a pivotal time, as the Lobos seek to climb higher in the rankings. Their balanced approach—combining aggressive serving with smart net play—has become a hallmark of their style this year. Fans in Albuquerque are optimistic, with the team’s home success fueling excitement for the remainder of the season.

Overall, this sweep reinforces the Lobos’ status as contenders. By executing their game plan flawlessly, they turned a potential upset opportunity for Utah State into a statement win. As the season progresses, the Lobos’ ability to replicate this performance on the road will determine their postseason fate.

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Author: HERE ALBUQUERQUE