URGENT UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes’ volleyball season came to a devastating end as they faced a crushing defeat against the Indiana Hoosiers in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on December 5, 2025. The Hoosiers delivered a decisive three-game sweep, with scores of 25-20, 25-17, 25-23, at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington, Indiana, knocking the Buffs out of contention for the Sweet 16.
Coach Jesse Mahoney recognized the challenge ahead, knowing that only an extraordinary performance could secure advancement. However, it was Indiana, ranked 15th and seeded fourth, who seized control of the match, showcasing their formidable skills. The defeat marks the end of the season for No. 24 Colorado (23-9, seeded fifth), who were seeking their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2017.
“While we had moments of opportunity, Indiana capitalized on critical plays,” Mahoney remarked after the match. “We struggled to slow down their star players, which ultimately determined the outcome.”
Indiana’s Candela Alonso-Corcelles led the charge with an impressive 16 kills and a hitting percentage of .556. Freshman sensation Jaidyn Jager added 15 kills with a hitting percentage of .375. The Hoosiers displayed exceptional teamwork, finishing with a striking .378 hitting percentage compared to the Buffs’ .208.
The match began with promise for Colorado, as they quickly built early leads of 6-2 and 9-5 in the first set. However, Indiana rallied, tying the score at 11-11 and never looking back. The second set saw Colorado briefly pull ahead before Indiana surged ahead with a 5-1 run that shifted the momentum.
In the critical third set, the Buffs initially led 22-17, but a late-game surge by Indiana, highlighted by three kills from Jager, allowed them to close the match with an 8-1 run.
“It was a tough environment, and Indiana made the big plays when it mattered most,” Mahoney added, acknowledging the impact of the crowd supporting the Hoosiers.
For senior Sarah Morton, who hails from Indiana, the loss was bittersweet. “Playing in my home state was special, but I will always cheer for Colorado,” she said emotionally. “I’m proud of our team and how far we’ve come this season.”
Despite the disappointment, both Mahoney and Morton emphasized the progress made this year. Colorado had faced a challenging previous season, finishing 13-17, and were predicted to finish 10th in the Big 12 this year but exceeded expectations by finishing third and reaching the NCAA Tournament.
“We’re grateful for this experience and will use it to grow,” Mahoney stated. “I expect even greater things from this team next season.”
As the Buffaloes reflect on a remarkable turnaround this year, they will look to build on this success as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The match results were as follows:
Indiana 3, Colorado 0
Scores: 25-20, 25-17, 25-23
Match Leaders:
– Kills: Colorado – Burilovic 19, Jordan 7, Payne 7; Indiana – Alonso-Corcelles 16, Jager 15
– Assists: Colorado – Finley 29, Morton 6; Indiana – Krickovic 29, Jackson 6
– Aces: Colorado – Burilovic 1; Indiana – Jager 1
– Blocks: Colorado – Dwinell 2, Splawska 2; Indiana – Sell 7, Tatum 5
– Digs: Colorado – Morton 8, Burilovic 7; Indiana – Krickovic 8, Alonso-Corcelles 6
With the season concluded, all eyes will be on how Colorado will regroup and prepare for the next chapter in their volleyball journey.
