REDDING, Ca. - UC Santa Cruz men's volleyball secured two victories on February 16th at the James M. Grant Center, sweeping Pacific Union College 3-0 and defeating Simpson University 3-1. The Banana Slugs displayed strong offensive execution and defensive stability, extending their winning streak.

UC Santa Cruz 3, Pacific Union 0
The Banana Slugs started the day in dominant fashion, sweeping Pacific Union in straight sets. UCSC established control early, winning the first set 25-10 behind efficient hitting and aggressive serving.
Pacific Union attempted to challenge in the second set, but the Slugs' balanced attack led them to a 25-17 victory. The third set saw UCSC maintain its momentum, limiting errors while closing the match with a 25-16 win.
UCSC's serving game was a key factor, with multiple aces disrupting Pacific Union's passing. The Slugs' defensive effort also kept Pacific Union's offense in check, forcing errors and limiting their opportunities at the net.

UC Santa Cruz 3, Simpson 1
The day's second match was more competitive, but the slugs found their rhythm after splitting the first two sets. The Slugs claimed the opening set 25-22, holding off a late push from Simpson.
Simpson responded with a close 25-23 win in the second set, capitalizing on some UCSC miscues to even the match. However, the Slugs made adjustments and took control in the third set with a dominant 25-16 victory, maintaining their momentum to close out the match with another 25-16 win in the fourth.
AJ Contreras and Ethan Makishima played key roles at the net, while setter Caio Valente kept the offense flowing. UCSC's ability to regroup after the second set and execute in the final two frames made the difference.

Key Performances Across Both Matches
• Kills: AJ Contreras (20), Dylan Foreman (20), Ethan Makishima (14), Riley Norman (13)
• Hitting Percentage: UCSC controlled both matches with efficient hitting
• Assists: Caio Valente (77 total)
• Digs: Marcus Donchuanchom (15), Riley Norman (7), Nico Espinoza (7)
• Aces: UCSC (26 total), Makishima (4), Valente (6), Fisher (3)

Looking Ahead
UC Santa Cruz will return home for their next match against UCSC Alumni on February 22 at 5:00 PM PST at West Field House.