Volleyball Recap: York Falls Short Against Ranked Lincoln-Way East

York faced Lincoln-Way East in a battle between two of the state's top teams on Thursday. The Dukes fell just short of the Griffins by a score of 2-1. The Dukes were not able to make up for their loss to the Griffins from their previous meeting back in April of 2024.

York started the match hot and won the first set, but they struggled down the stretch and lost the last two. Once all was said and done, the final score wound up at 26-28, 25-19, 25-10.

Hunter Stepanich paced York's offense, picking up 11 kills. Stepanich got some help from Carson Cruver and his 29 assists. Finally, Stepanich was also a dominant defender, finishing with a team-high two blocks.

Lincoln-Way East found their leader in sophomore Dylan Nanney, who had 24 assists and five digs. Will Hubatch also deserves some recognition as he had his first kill of the season.

York's defeat ended an eight-game streak of away wins dating back to last season and brought them to 7-3. As for Lincoln-Way East, their win was their fifth straight at home dating back to last season, which pushed their record up to 8-1.

Looking ahead, York will take on Vernon Hills in a tournament on Friday. As for Lincoln-Way East, they will take on Brother Rice at 6:00 p.m. on Monday. The Crusaders will roll in looking for their ninth straight victory, something the Griffins surely won't give up without a fight.