UC Riverside Highlanders women’s volleyball team endured a narrow 3-2 defeat to the California Baptist Lancers on October 23, 2026, at SRC Arena in Riverside. The match, part of the Big West Conference schedule, concluded with set scores of 18-25, 25-22, 25-23, 18-25, and 10-15.
The Highlanders set a season-high with 140 attacks in the conference contest, showcasing their offensive effort despite falling short. Libero McKenna Giles tied her career high by recording 15 digs, anchoring UC Riverside’s defensive unit throughout the five-set battle.
Middle blocker Zeynep Belgutay contributed multiple aces and kills, while outside hitter Casi Doll added valuable kills, aces, and blocks that kept UC Riverside competitive. Juliette D’Eliseo and Evelyn Hendrix provided effective blocking, and setter Elena Kasavica sparked momentum with a timely ace during a critical run.
Though UC Riverside held leads in several sets and played a closely contested match, they remain winless in Big West play at 0-9, with an overall record of 4-16. California Baptist improved to 4-16 overall and 1-7 in conference action. The Highlanders will look to even the Crosstown Showdown series in the rematch at California Baptist on October 24 at 6 p.m., airing on ESPN+.
CSB Take
UC Riverside’s performance demonstrated grit and promising individual efforts despite the setback. Delivering a season-high on attack attempts and tying a personal best in digs embodies the competitive spirit the Highlanders will need as they pursue their first Big West win. The upcoming rematch presents a vital opportunity to build on the positives and strive for a breakthrough victory.
Source: Original report
