Long Beach State just swept UCLA out of the championship. Three sets to none. That's how you dethrone the two-time reigning kings.
Long Beach State Means Business
From the opening serve, you could feel it coming. Long Beach State, the No. 1 seed, wasn't just there to compete. They were there to win. And they did just that. Alex Nikolov and his crew handled business, leaving no room for doubt. UCLA, the team with a staggering 21 national titles, looked stunned.
UCLA's last championship victory in 2024? A distant memory now. Long Beach State didn't just win; they dominated. 25-21, 25-18, 25-20. Three straight sets. No answer. That's how you make a statement.
The Takeover Was Real
The Covelli Center in Columbus, Ohio, witnessed a clinic. Mason Briggs was everywhere. The libero was a wall of defense, frustrating UCLA's hitters all night. Every dig, every pass, on point. And then there was Clarke Godbold. His spikes? Disrespectful. UCLA couldn't handle the heat.
Let's be real. UCLA's Ethan Champlin and Merrick McHenry tried to rally. But every time they found a rhythm, Long Beach State snatched it back. This wasn't just a game; it was a takeover.
The Legacy Continues
Long Beach State now boasts four national titles. This win? It's a reminder that they're not just contenders in the NCAA men's volleyball scene. They're a dynasty in the making. And from there… it was over.
Remember this day. Long Beach State just flipped the script, and it feels like they're not done yet. Watch out, NCAA.
Source: NCAA
