Volleyball Recap: Illinois Math & Science Academy Comes Up Short

Illinois Math & Science Academy was not able to break out of their rough patch on Tuesday as the team picked up their fifth straight defeat. They were a single set away from ending the streak, but they lost a 2-1 heartbreaker at the hands of the Hinckley-Big Rock Royals. The Titans were not able to make up for their loss to the Royals from their previous meeting back in October of 2024.

Illinois Math & Science Academy started the match hot and won the first set, but they struggled down the stretch and lost the last two. The final score came out to 24-26, 25-17, 25-23.

Enza Ristic paced Illinois Math & Science Academy's offense, picking up ten kills. Ristic got some help from Naoimi Pathinvo and her eight assists. Pathinvo also made an impact serving: she shared the team lead in aces with Kendall Adkins, each putting up three.

Illinois Math & Science Academy's defeat dropped their record down to 12-14-1. As for Hinckley-Big Rock, the win (which was their third in a row) raised their record to 6-10.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Illinois Math & Science Academy will host Serena at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. As for Hinckley-Big Rock, they will be playing in front of their home fans against Aurora Central Catholic at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.