ELGIN, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene University (6-7, 1-0) battled back for a thrilling 3-2 victory over Judson University (4-7, 0-1) on Tuesday night at the Lindner Fitness Center, closing the match with a dominant .714 attack percentage in the decisive fifth set to earn the 16-14 win.

After dropping the first two sets (17-25, 23-25), the Tigers regrouped and responded with resilience.

In the third set, Olivet found its rhythm early. A kill from Cade Ooms sparked momentum, and the Tigers continued to build a lead behind strong offensive production from Ben Kreke and Cameron Johnston. Crisp ball distribution and improved defensive play allowed Olivet to control the tempo and secure a 25-20 victory to extend the match.

The Tigers carried that energy into the fourth set. In a tightly contested battle, Olivet executed in key moments, capitalizing on opportunities while maintaining steady offensive pressure. Tomas Gonzalez directed the attack with precision, setting up crucial kills from Kreke and Johnston. The Tigers closed out the set 25-23 to force a decisive fifth.

In the final frame, Olivet delivered its most efficient performance of the night. A service ace by Gonzalez gave the Tigers early momentum, and Johnston continued to lead the offense with timely kills. With the score locked late, Johnston delivered a clutch kill to give Olivet a 15-14 edge. Following a timeout, Ooms finished the match with a decisive kill off an assist from Gonzalez, sealing the 16-14 set win and the 3-2 comeback victory.

Johnston led the Tigers with 19 kills on 34 swings for a .500 hitting percentage, totaling 21.5 points. Gonzalez orchestrated the offense with 47 assists while adding 11 digs. Tyler Van Laten anchored the back row with 16 digs and contributed five assists. Kreke added 10 kills and four total blocks, providing strength on both sides of the net.

With the win, Olivet Nazarene opens conference play 1-0, showcasing poise and determination in a hard-fought road victory.

–ONU–