IRVINE, Calif. - After a five set battle against USC in the first game of the series, CUI was looking for another win tonight in the CU Arena. The Eagles defeated the Trojans in three straight sets 25-23, 25-22, and 25-22.

Middles Jesper Schut and Gil Herold were contributing factors for the Eagles not only offensively but also defensively earning nine kills and six blocks collectively on the night. Raymond Barsemian was unstoppable with an impressive night hitting .500 with 18 kills. Outside hitters Jordan Hoppe had 10 kills and collected two aces while Jonathan Carlson added three kills, six digs, and two blocks. McLain Mott handed out 37 assists while Addison Enriques had a team high of 12 digs.

"I'm so extremely proud. We know we are good and can compete. The first time we played them [USC] was a little dirty but this one was just clean volleyball three and out. Everything was working and flowing," said senior Barsemian.

The Eagles were composed the whole match having 14 lead changes and a tied score 31 times while sweeping the Trojans. The Eagles passing and blocking was a contributing factor as they were able to go on runs towards the end of each set and closing them out. Every starter for the Eagles contributed at least one block. 

"Really proud of these guys and having these guys that just go up and hit the ball and the defense like Addie and Jonathan is a fun fun time playing volleyball like that," added setter Mott. "We need this to fuel us into the short season to the tournament in April and things are clicking and we are feeling good."

The Eagles were able to go on service runs in each set that helped take leads over the Trojans. After being down in the first set, Barsemian went to the back line and went on a four point service run to take the lead over USC. The Eagles were able to close out the first set not allowing the Trojans to go on any runs. The second and third set were no different with CUI not allowing USC to go on long runs and Schut went on a three point run in the second along Hoppe closing out the third set at the end line to take a 19-16 lead and close the match out.

"I thought Addison had another stellar night passing and playing defense. We were only aced two times so that is a reflection of Addie's lead. Ray was phenomenal hitting .500 with 20 points!" stated head coach Shawn Patchell. "Great team win!"

The Eagles look to sweep the series against USC for the second straight year on Saturday, Mar. 13 at 5 p.m. in the Galen Center in Los Angeles, Calif.

For the full CUI men's volleyball schedule, CLICK HERE.

#CUITogether