USC Men's Volleyball Defeats Hawaii in Four Sets

The No. 8 USC men's volleyball team took on the No. 11 ranked University of Hawaii Thursday night at the Galen Center. The Rainbow Warriors looked to defeat the Trojans in the first of a two game MPSF series.

But it was USC that came out victorious defeating Hawaii in four sets.

"We stuck to the game plan pretty well dug a lot of balls, blocked a lot of balls, so [we're] very happy about that," said USC setter Micah Christenson.

Following their victory over Hawaii, USC is now 8-5 overall and 7-5 in conference.

However, the Rainbow Warriors answered back by going on a 6-0 run. Hawaii defeated USC in the second set 25-15. 

"Our passing broke down and when our passing breaks down it's hard to get our sets together, it's hard to get our hitting down," said USC libero Henry Cassiday, "It's a vicious spiral so when that breaks down it's hard to run our offense."

Despite a shaky second set, the Trojans were able to rebound quickly. USC won the third set 25-14 and manage to seal the victory winning the fourth set 25-22. 

Hawaii natives Micah Christenson and Henry Cassiday combined for 31 digs for the Trojans. USC stars Tanner Jensen had 20 kills, while Lucas Yoder added 18.

The Trojans are now 8-5 overall and 7-5 in conference. They will face Hawaii once again on Saturday at the Galen Center. Game time is set for 7:00 p.m.