ANN ARBOR, MI– Michigan State won their Big Ten opener against rival Michigan on Friday evening with a 3-0 clean sweep.

The Spartans traveled to Ann Arbor for a well-attended game at the Crisler Center, ending their 10-game losing streak against the Wolverines with head coach Leah Johnson’s first-career win against Michigan.

“I tell the team when we’re ready to win we’ll win,” said head coach Leah Johnson.

The match opened up with an electric first set dominated by MSU. Michigan took the first point, but that did not matter. MSU denied at the net consistently and was responsive to Michigan’s plays. 

Michigan had multiple errors and was unable to keep up. MSU took the first set 25-14. 

The second set started with Michigan in control, quickly putting up five points and creating separation. MSU took a timeout, adjusted, and closed the gap to then reclaim the lead. 

The Spartans had to play hard to keep their lead, but they were able to outlast the Wolverines to clinch the second set, 25-22, with a service ace from junior setter Julia Bishop.

Going into the third set MSU had the advantage and they came out with fire. The Spartans held the lead the entire set and built up to a six point lead. 

The match closed out with a 25-22 set win for MSU with a service ace from freshman outside hitter Taylah Holder.

Holder finished the match as the kill, attack, and points leader. She had 18 kills, 35 attacks, and 21 points. 

“She can be a little reserved about her play and wants to worry about what’s not working versus staying dialed into what is,” said Johnson. “I think she had a transformational week with that and her mental game and showed up today on the floor.”

Up next, the Spartans will stay on the road to play Illinois on Sunday, Sept. 24, with game time set for 2:00 p.m. E.T.