UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes’ NCAA Tournament run came to a sudden halt as they fell to the Indiana Hoosiers in a decisive 3-0 sweep on December 5, 2025, at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington, Indiana. This loss marks the end of CU’s season, leaving them without a Sweet 16 appearance for another year.
In a match where momentum shifted rapidly, the 15th-ranked Hoosiers (25-7) displayed their dominance, clinching sets with scores of 25-20, 25-17, and 25-23. The Buffaloes, ranked 24th and making their first NCAA appearance since 2022, were unable to capitalize on early leads and crucial opportunities.
Head Coach Jesse Mahoney acknowledged the challenge, stating, “We made some errors at inopportune times, and Indiana definitely made great plays when it mattered.” Indiana’s standout performers included Candela Alonso-Corcelles, who delivered 16 kills with an impressive .556 hitting percentage, and freshman sensation Jaidyn Jager, who contributed 15 kills.
The Buffaloes began the first set strong, leading 6-2 and 9-5 early on. However, Indiana rallied to tie the set at 11-11 and seized control, never looking back. In the second set, CU briefly regained the lead at 10-9, but Indiana responded with a 5-1 run that shifted the momentum decisively.
The third set saw Colorado leading 22-17 before Indiana mounted a stunning comeback, finishing the set with an 8-1 run. Mahoney noted, “The crowd was good, and I think they probably fed off that,” highlighting the Hoosiers’ home advantage.
For senior Sarah Morton, the loss was particularly poignant as it marked the end of her collegiate career playing in her home state. “I’m proud of this team,” Morton remarked, reflecting on the season’s journey and the connections she made. “We put up a fight till the very end.”
Despite the disappointment, Mahoney praised his team for overcoming last season’s struggles, where they finished with a 13-17 record. This year, they exceeded expectations, finishing third in the Big 12 after being predicted to place tenth.
As the Buffs look to regroup, Mahoney expressed optimism for the future, stating, “Going through a season like this is going to be a learning experience for us, and I fully expect us to be a better team next year.”
The Indiana Hoosiers now advance to the Sweet 16, continuing their pursuit of the championship. The Colorado Buffaloes, while facing an early exit, reflect on a season filled with growth and resilience.
As fans and players alike digest this outcome, the focus will shift to the upcoming season and the potential for even greater achievements in the future.
