BYU Volleyball’s Tough Start in Big 12 Against Colorado

In their Big 12 opener on September 25, 2025, the Brigham Young University (BYU) women’s volleyball team faced a challenging match against the Colorado Buffaloes. Despite entering the match with an undefeated non-conference record of 12-0, the Cougars fell to the Buffaloes 3-1, with set scores of 25-14, 25-23, 23-25, and 25-21.

Match Overview

Competing at the Smith Fieldhouse, the Cougars struggled to maintain their winning momentum as Colorado started strong. BU’s sophomore setter, Alex Bower, expressed scrutiny over her performance, stating, “I’ll probably be watching film tonight. I just give myself tonight to focus on what I could have done better, but then tomorrow, as soon as I wake up, it’s a new day.”

Key Players and Performances

Colorado’s Ana Burilovic was a standout performer, contributing significantly to the Buffaloes’ victory with a match-high of 22 kills and four aces, achieving a hitting percentage of .333. In contrast, BYU’s top performers included freshman Suli Davis and junior Claire Little Chambers, who recorded 15 and 11 kills respectively, though they were part of a combined total of 28 hitting errors for the team.

Set Highlights

• Set 1: Colorado dominated with a hitting percentage of .565, allowing just one error, leading to a decisive 25-14 win.
• Set 2: After trailing, BYU fought back but fell short 25-23, granting Colorado a commanding two-set lead.
• Set 3: BYU found its footing and won 25-23, led by crucial plays from both Bower and Kemavor.
• Set 4: Despite a close score at 22-20, BYU couldn’t secure the win, culminating in a match-ending ace from Burilovic.

Coaches and Strategies

BYU head coach Heather Olmstead remarked on the team’s performance, saying, “They (Colorado) had a great match. They played really well in all phases of the game and we really couldn’t keep up with them.” Olmstead emphasized the need for her team to refocus and prepare for their next match against Iowa State.

Looking Ahead

BYU, now holding a record of 12-1 and 0-1 in the Big 12, will regroup as they prepare to face Iowa State on Saturday at noon MT. The Cyclones are entering this match after a reverse sweep victory against Utah, adding intensity to what promises to be a competitive matchup.