LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos women’s volleyball team dropped a 3-1 decision to the UC Davis Aggies on September 19, 2026, at the Galen Center. The Aggies took the first set 25-15, but the Gauchos answered by winning the second set 25-18. UC Davis narrowly captured the third set 25-22 and then closed out the match with a 25-17 fourth set victory.
Gabi Martinez led UC Santa Barbara’s offense by recording 14 kills and 10 digs, marking her fourth double-double of the season. Defensive Specialist Cortni Youngblood contributed 10 digs, which was her ninth double-digit digs match of the year. Danica Rach also matched her season high in digs with 10 and added 10 kills while hitting .348.
Setter Ava Zamora posted a season-high 20 assists. Avery Gibbs achieved her first career solo block, and Reilly Goueth had a career-best three digs while leading the Gauchos with three blocks.
UC Santa Barbara will remain at the Galen Center to face the USC Trojans later on September 19.
CSB Take
This match highlighted both the strength and areas for growth for UC Santa Barbara. Despite falling short in three of the four sets, the Gauchos demonstrated competitiveness by winning the second set and maintaining fight throughout the match. Standout performances by Martinez, Youngblood, and Rach provide a solid platform as the team looks ahead to upcoming challenges. Improving consistency and execution, especially in close sets, will be crucial for the Gauchos’ success in the remainder of the season.
Source: Original report
