No. 23 Utes sweep rival No. 21 BYU in dominant rematch to climb Big 12 standings

SALT LAKE CITY — With the largest crowd in program history in attendance, the 23rd ranked Utah volleyball team swept in-state rivals BYU in a high-stakes rematch at the Huntsman Center on Friday night.

The Utes took down No. 21 BYU in straight sets 25-16, 25-15, 25-16, asserting their strength and continuing their rise within the Big 12.

After a tough loss to BYU in five sets last month in Provo, Utah left no doubts this time around, securing a decisive 3-0 victory on their home court.

The first set saw Utah surge to an early lead, fueled by a powerful offense that BYU struggled to counter. With an impressive 25-16 win, the Utes set the tone for the night, using efficient hitting and disciplined defense to stifle the Cougars' attack.

Kamryn Gibadlo was a standout for the Utes, leading the team with several clutch plays that capitalized on BYU's defensive end.

In the second set, Utah's momentum continued as they unleashed an 8-point run that left BYU scrambling to recover. The Utes' dominant performance at the net and on the service line kept BYU on its back foot, ultimately closing the set at 25-15.

The Utes' high-powered offense, averaging 14.3 kills per set on the season, was on full display, while the defense consistently disrupted the Cougars' rhythm. The final set was tightly contested, with BYU battling to stay within distance; but the Utes, once again, proved too strong.

With the score close through most of the set, Utah pulled ahead in the final moments, closing the match on an 8-point run. Gibadlo sealed the sweep with a fierce final hit, assisted by Claranne Fechter, pushing the Utes to their match point and igniting the home crowd.

This victory not only extends Utah's impressive season but also sends a strong message within the Big 12. Ranked seventh nationally in kills per set and second in the Big 12 for assists per set, Utah's offensive efficiency has been a key component in their success this season.

Allie Olsen, among the nation's top 50 in hitting percentage, has been a crucial asset, while Emrie Satuala continues to post a .365 hitting percentage, ranking her 56th nationally.

With the win, Utah prepares to carry its momentum on the road as they travel to Houston on Nov. 14 to face the Cougars in another Big 12 matchup.

Meanwhile, BYU will travel to Orlando to take on UCF, looking to bounce back from Friday night's defeat.

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