The Emporia State volleyball team opened up 2026 with a four-set victory over Minnesota State-Mankato on Thursday afternoon. The Lady Hornets started the season 1-0 with a 25-15, 25-19, 18-25, 25-18 victory. ESU used a 4-0 run to break open a 9-8 first set and cruise to the win before holding off a late Maverick push in the second. Mankato used a 15-5 run to take the third frame, but E-State built an 18-8 lead in fourth and held on for the match. ESU outhit MSU-Mankato .172 to .061 in the match. Lavra Krizanic led the Lady Hornets with 17 kills while Delainee Dexter added 10. Brooklyn Weaver tallied six blocks while Brailee Bogle and 26 assists. ESU plays two matches Friday against Illinois-Springfield and the host #10 Ferris State.
E-State Volleyball Tops Mankato in 2026 Season Opener
Emporia State Power E logo. Courtesy ESU Athletics.
