NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Lawrence Tech 3, Life U 1
Records: Life U 1-1; Lawrence Tech 1-0

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – The Life University men's volleyball team showed resilience and flashes of momentum Friday night, but ultimately dropped a four-set decision to Lawrence Tech University, 3–1.

The Blue Devils opened the match with early energy, using efficient offense and a strong presence at the net to claim the first two sets, 25–20 and 25–15. The Running Eagles stayed competitive in stretches of the opening frame, trading points early before Lawrence Tech created separation late behind a balanced attack and timely blocks.

Momentum swung briefly in the Running Eagles' favor to start the second set, but Lawrence Tech quickly settled in and began dictating play. The Blue Devils hit an impressive .556 in the frame, capitalizing on transition opportunities and service pressure to take a 2–0 lead despite Life U's efforts to slow the run.

Facing a two-set deficit, Life U responded with its most complete stretch of volleyball in the third. The Running Eagles tightened defensively at the net and found better rhythm offensively, engaging Lawrence Tech in extended rallies and forcing difficult swings. With the set tied late, the Running Eagles closed strong, edging the hosts 25–23 to stay alive. Jakub Kantorowicz and Charles Ewer delivered timely kills down the stretch, while Jan Burhardt helped stabilize the front line with disciplined blocking.

Carrying that momentum into the fourth set, Life U traded points with Lawrence Tech through the early stages as both teams fought for control. However, the Blue Devils regrouped midway through the frame, using a late surge fueled by efficient hitting and solid net defense to pull away. Lawrence Tech closed the match with a 25–18 decision, sealing the 3–1 victory.

Lawrence Tech finished the night hitting .347 as a team and totaled 13.0 blocks, creating challenges for the Life U offense throughout the match. The Running Eagles recorded 35 kills and showed improved execution as the contest progressed, particularly in the third set, while continuing to work through early-season chemistry.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
— Jakub Kantorowicz paced Life U with eight kills while contributing three digs in a four-set effort.
— Charles Ewer posted seven kills and led the team with four block assists, anchoring the net defensively.
— Aurelien Lavarini provided an efficient spark off the bench, recording five kills on seven attempts (.429).
— Riley Chapman guided the offense with 18 assists and added two digs while splitting setting duties.
— Nazmi Bayoglu led all Running Eagles with 11 digs, steadying the back row throughout the match.