Ohio State Edges Michigan State in Five Sets
The Spartans lost a five-set match to the Buckeyes, with senior outside hitter Alanna Bankston leaving with an injury.
Updated on Nov. 8, 2026 in Volleyball
Michigan State Volleyball lost to Ohio State in five sets, with the Buckeyes winning the decisive fifth set 15-9. Michigan State recorded 65 kills and 71 digs, while Ohio State had 63 kills and 62 digs.
Why it matters
The loss comes as Michigan State looks to rebound during a demanding remaining schedule, and head coach Kristen Kelsay said the team's best volleyball is still ahead. Three big matches remain on the schedule.
Michigan State won the first set 25-19 and Ohio State won the second and fourth sets 25-22, with the Buckeyes closing out the fifth set 15-9. Michigan State attacked 162 times to Ohio State's 167, while Michigan State finished with 71 digs against Ohio State's 62.
The players
Michigan State Volleyball
The Michigan State University women's volleyball program competes in the Big Ten Conference and plays its home matches at Breslin Center in East Lansing.
Ohio State Volleyball
The Ohio State University women's volleyball program competes in the Big Ten Conference and is based in Columbus, Ohio.
Kristen Kelsay
Kristen Kelsay is the head coach of the Michigan State women's volleyball program.
The details
Michigan State took control midway through the first set on a Bankston kill that extended its lead to six, and later cut Ohio State's lead to one with a four-point run. Ohio State rallied to win sets two and four and took the deciding fifth set.
Timeline
Nov. 8, 2026: Michigan State lost to Ohio State in five sets.
Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, 6 p.m.: Michigan State plays No. 14 Purdue at Breslin Center.
Season Trajectory
The loss to Ohio State is one result within Michigan State's Big Ten schedule, where each conference match affects its standing as the season progresses. Kelsay's remaining three big matches will determine how much ground the Spartans can recover this season.
Michigan State's Thursday match against No. 14 Purdue is its next opportunity to respond after the five-set loss. Fans planning to attend can catch the match at Breslin Center.
The takeaway
Closely contested Big Ten matches often hinge on the final set, and Michigan State's ability to finish strong against Purdue will be a clear test of its resilience.
What happens next
Michigan State plays No. 14 Purdue on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Breslin Center.
Further reading
Find more coverage in the Volleyball section for East Lansing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The State News.
