The energy in Willkinson Hall was electric as over 2,000 fans watched Indiana earn its victory against Oregon on Friday. It was IU’s 20th victory of the season, an accomplishment only reached six times in program history. The four-set match resulted in the second 20-win season in the past three years, marking Indiana’s remarkable recent improvement and success.
The first game was filled with errors from Indiana and Oregon’s powerful serves and attacks that went unreturned. The Ducks, currently 12th in the Big Ten, were able to capitalize on the Hoosiers’ mistakes to take the early lead. Indiana’s silly and costly mistakes allowed Oregon to find a good rhythm and ultimately win game one.
The Ducks started off strong and controlled the momentum of the first set, while the Hoosiers struggled to gain early offensive pressure. Indiana struggled with its back row presence, but found success at the net with tips and blocks.
Most of Indiana’s success in the first game came from freshman outside hitter Jaidyn Jager. During the four-set game, Jager landed 15 kills and 10 digs for the Hoosiers.
“Every single person contributes to the culture we are trying to create. Knowing we have support from the coaching staff and that all the girls on the bench are ready to come in at any given moment, shows we are all so eager to help each other,” Jager said.
Oregon’s opposite hitter Alanah Clemente was the heartbeat for the Ducks’ offense. Clemente was heavily relied on as a hitter for her powerful attacks that seemed to hit the ground before Indiana could even react. Oregon looked like a solid unit, continuously ending short rallies and dominating the first game.
The tables turned in game two. Oregon started with errors that allowed Indiana to find its groove and look like a collaborative team. The Hoosiers made adjustments offensively and defensively to improve their serve receive and shift the momentum. Freshman middle blocker Victoria Gray provided both offensive and defensive success for Indiana.
“She’s a phenomenal young athlete who was a multi-sport kid, great at basketball and volleyball in high school,” head coach Steve Aird said. “Her ceiling and her competitive spirit are really high, and she’s so easy to be around. It’s never about her, it’s always about the team. She’s got a bright future ahead of her for sure.”
Freshman middle blocker Victoria Gray celebrates earning a point for Indiana. (HN Photo by Brady Owen)
Indiana’s strong response in game two continued in the next two sets. With powerful hits and an aggressive offense, the Hoosiers were a strong team with better communication and collaboration. The third set was tight, but Indiana pulled ahead because of its strong hitting efficiency.
In the fourth and final set, Indiana dominated from start to finish. When Indiana claimed the win, senior outside hitter Candela Alonso-Corcelles made program history as the winningest player in Big Ten play in Indiana history. She helped the Hoosiers earn 39 conference wins since 2022.
“I couldn’t do it without my team,” Alonso-Corcelles said. “It’s always so good to be here, and I think it honestly shows how committed we are as a team. Everyone is so happy because we have been working for this exact thing, and knowing all of our hard work paid off is awesome.”
Indiana’s victory over Oregon delivered a statement win, showcasing its resilience and strong closing efforts. With young talent and veteran leadership, the Hoosiers have proven they can compete with anyone in the Big Ten. The Hoosiers will turn their attention to the match against Maryland on Nov. 16 and prove that this historic team is building a long-lasting legacy.
