The University of the Pacific Tigers women’s volleyball team will conclude its non-conference schedule with three matches this Thursday through Saturday at Idaho State’s Reed Gym in Pocatello, Idaho, during the Orange & Black Classic.
The Tigers (4-5) will open the tournament on Thursday at 6 p.m. against the host Idaho State Bengals, who hold a 7-2 record this season. This matchup marks the third meeting between the programs, with Pacific leading the all-time series 2-1, including a five-set victory at last season’s Ridge Invitational.
On Friday at 2 p.m., Pacific faces the Boise State Broncos (6-4) for the first time since 2021. Although the Tigers lost the last encounter, they hold a 2-1 overall series advantage. The weekend wraps up Saturday at 10 a.m. against the Wyoming Cowgirls (4-4), who Pacific has beaten in their only previous meeting, a 3-0 road win in 1986.
Key players leading Pacific include junior Alessia Couchond, who tops the team with 14 service aces, ranking fourth in the West Coast Conference. Sophomore libero Bella Gutierrez leads the defensive effort with 150 digs, placing third in the conference and 48th nationally. Freshman middle blocker Ellie Prindl leads the team with 24 blocks, ranking in the WCC’s top ten per set. Junior outside hitter Nicole Zake leads offensively with 95 kills this season.
Thursday and Friday matches will be broadcast live on ESPN+. Tickets are available through the Pacific Tigers website and box office, with group discounts for parties of 10 or more.
CSB Take
This three-match non-conference stretch provides the Pacific Tigers women’s volleyball team a valuable chance to build team cohesion and competitive experience before beginning West Coast Conference play. Facing familiar rivals and a historically rare opponent tests the team’s resilience and growth. Television coverage on ESPN+ also offers beneficial exposure, underscoring the importance of these contests for player development and program momentum.
Source: Original report
