LEWISTON, Idaho – Walla Walla University Women's Volleyball opened the 2026 season Thursday at the Hells Canyon Grand Invitational, facing MSU-Northern in the first match of the season. The Skylights earned a straight-set victory over the Wolves, 25-23, 25-17, 25-23.
The Wolves battled throughout all three sets, staying within striking distance of the Skylights despite trailing for much of the opening set. Walla Walla kept the first set close but was unable to overcome MSU-Northern, falling 25-23.
Walla Walla responded in the second set, taking its only lead of the match before the Skylights regained control. MSU-Northern pulled away late to take the second set, 25-17, and moved within one set of securing the victory.
The Wolves continued to battle in the third set, keeping the score close throughout the frame. Walla Walla had an opportunity to extend the match, but the Skylights closed out the set, 25-23, to complete the sweep.
Sahara Browning led the Wolves offensively, recording 13 kills in the match.
Olivia Cheek directed the Walla Walla offense with 21 assists, while the Wolves finished with 38 total kills compared to 37 for MSU-Northern.
Despite holding a slight advantage in total kills, Walla Walla was unable to overcome 22 attack errors. The Skylights finished with 10 attack errors, allowing MSU-Northern to capitalize on the Wolves' mistakes and secure the victory.
"We played hard and had our chances but made a few too many mistakes to pull off a win," Walla Walla head coach Don Hepker said. "Fortunately, if we fix just a couple of our issues, I think we'll see the W's come our way."
The Wolves will return to action Wednesday, Sept. 2, when they travel to Redding, California, to take on Simpson University. Walla Walla will then open conference play Thursday, Sept. 3, against Southern Oregon University before facing Oregon Tech on Friday, Sept. 4.
