CHICAGO, Ill. (October 4, 2025) — The Chicago State volleyball team delivered one of its most spirited performances of the season Saturday afternoon at the Jacoby Dickens Center, pushing Central Connecticut State to five sets in a back-and-forth showdown that showcased grit, growth, and undeniable Cougar pride.
Despite falling 3–2 (25–23, 25–15, 21–25, 15–25, 14–16), the Cougars demonstrated resilience and teamwork throughout the match, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with 20 tie scores and six lead changes across five sets.
Zeynep Ertam led the offensive charge with 14 kills and a .387 hitting percentage, while
Leah Linares Castro added 9 kills and 8 digs.
Nayella George contributed 11 kills and anchored the back row with 11 digs. The team's blocking was a standout, totaling 22.0 blocks—more than double their opponent's output.
Chicago State came out strong, claiming the first two sets with aggressive net play and sharp serving. The Cougars posted a .256 hitting percentage in the second set and an impressive 81% sideout rate, their highest of the match. Though Central Connecticut rallied in the final three sets, the Cougars never backed down, fighting to the final point in a nail-biting fifth set.
Chicago State returns to action Friday, October 10
th travel for a conference matchup against Le Moyne College. First serve is set up 5 p.m.
