The U.S. Men's National Team wrapped up their 2025 VNL campaign with a 3-0 loss to Japan. And just like that, the ride was over.
Japan Takes Control
In front of a roaring crowd in Chiba, Japan showed why they’re no joke. They took down the U.S. with set scores of 25-21, 25-19, 25-23. Jordan Ewert did his part, leading the U.S. with 13 kills, but it wasn't enough.
Japan? Straight up dominant with a 44-28 kill advantage. They had no answer for Japan’s precision.
Learning Curve
Karch Kiraly, the U.S. coach, had a plan. Mix it up. “We learned a lot,” Kiraly said. “These are golden opportunities to play against the elite. We won’t play merry-go-round like that in World Championships.”
Ewert echoed the sentiment, calling the experience “incredible” despite the bitter end. He stepped up as a senior presence, embracing the chaos and learning from it.
Looking Ahead
Next up? The 2025 FIVB World Championship in Manila. “We’re excited about what we can get better at,” Kiraly added. The U.S. finished 6-6 in VNL play, but this isn’t the end. It’s the beginning.
And from here… it’s all about the bounce back. That’ll do it.
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Source: USA Volleyball
