URGENT UPDATE: SMU volleyball’s historic season has come to a sudden end after a 3-1 loss to Purdue in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament on December 7, 2023. The match concluded with set scores of 25-16, 19-25, 22-25, 27-29, marking a heartbreaking déjà vu for the Mustangs, who faced the same fate against the Boilermakers earlier this season.
The Mustangs surged ahead with a spectacular start, racing to a 9-1 lead in the first set, displaying their dominance and determination. SMU forced Purdue to call both of its timeouts before they could muster just three points. The Mustangs confidently clinched the opening set 25-16, showcasing their potential.
However, Purdue quickly rebounded, exploiting weaknesses in the SMU defense in the second set. Despite SMU cutting the deficit to just one point, Purdue delivered a decisive 6-1 run to claim the set 25-19 and level the match.
The tension escalated in the third set, with both teams battling for control. Tied at 20-20, Purdue seized the momentum, finishing the set on a 5-2 run and capitalizing on four costly errors by SMU to take a crucial lead in the match.
In a gripping fourth set, the Mustangs found themselves tied again at 15-15. Yet, a series of errors allowed Purdue to establish an 18-15 lead. SMU fought back, reclaiming the lead at 23-22, but once again faltered at the finish line. Purdue clinched the match with a nail-biting 29-27 victory, sending the Mustangs home.
With this win, Purdue advances to its first regional final since 2021 and will face the top-seeded Pitt. Meanwhile, SMU concludes an incredible season filled with milestones and achievements, leaving fans and players with a sense of pride despite the heart-wrenching loss in Pittsburgh.
Fans are encouraged to reflect on a season that saw SMU rise to new heights and to look forward to what the future holds for this resilient team. For ongoing coverage, follow The Dallas Morning News.
