CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The University of Mount Olive men's volleyball team faced a stiff test on Saturday evening, squaring off against No. 15 McKendree in the UC Invitational hosted by the University of Charleston. Despite flashes of strong offensive production and moments of momentum, the Trojans fell to the nationally ranked Bearcats in straight sets, 25-18, 25-17, 25-17.

Mount Olive was led by Kory Grant, who paced the offense with 13 kills on the night while hitting an efficient .400. Grant consistently provided a spark for the Trojans, finding success on the outside against a disciplined McKendree block. 

The opening set saw Mount Olive trade points early with the Bearcats, highlighted by a pair of early blocks from Grant that momentarily slowed McKendree's attack. The Trojans stayed within striking distance through the middle of the set, but the Bearcats closed on a decisive run to take the opener, 25-18.

In the second set, Mount Olive showed resilience, earning points off McKendree service errors and a service ace from Grant. However, the Bearcats' transition offense proved difficult to contain, as McKendree pulled away late to secure the 25-17 win.

The Trojans continued to battle in the third set, with Grant again delivering timely kills and Mount Olive forcing several long rallies. Despite the effort, McKendree capitalized on extended runs at the service line to close out the match and complete the sweep.

Defensively, libero Luca Colombo anchored the back row for Mount Olive, recording multiple key digs and keeping rallies alive against the Bearcats.

Mount Olive will look to build on its performance against a ranked opponent as the Trojans continue early-season play, taking lessons from the match as they prepare for their next contest against No. 20 ranked George Mason on Friday, Jan. 30 in Fairfax, Va.