MISSOULA, Mont. — Eastern (7-8, 3-2) completed a convincing sweep over Montana (6-11, 1-5) in a thrilling match.
 
Kalista Lukovich was a standout player, recording 13 kills and 15 digs for her seventh double-double of the season. Her all-around performance was crucial, and she was well supported by Bri Gunderson, who dominated defensively with six blocks, while Alyssa Radke and Sadie Bacon each added four blocks.
 
In the first set, Eastern started strong with a 5-1 run, capitalizing on a mix of effective blocking and errors from the Griz. Despite a brief comeback from Montana that brought them within one point, Eastern quickly regained control, stretching their lead to 18-9. Gunderson was particularly impressive, contributing six kills with a remarkable hitting percentage of .750, along with two blocks. The Eagles closed out the set 25-19, showcasing their offensive and defensive prowess.
 
The second set was a more competitive affair, with Quincy Moran opening the scoring for Eastern. Both teams exchanged points, and Montana took their first lead of the match at 17-11. Eastern rallied back with a crucial 7-1 run, tying the score at 22-22. With the tension mounting, a key kill from Bacon allowed Eastern to regain the lead, forcing Montana to call a timeout. The Griz responded with an ace to tie it at 24-24, pushing the set into extra points. However, Eastern showed resilience, claiming the next two points to win the set 26-24.
 
In the third set, the intensity continued as the teams fought point for point. Montana managed to establish a slight edge, going up 13-10. However, Eastern quickly regrouped, with Radke delivering a pivotal block that shifted momentum. The Eagles seized control, extending their lead to six points late in the set. Montana attempted a comeback, closing the gap to just one point, but Eastern held firm to secure the set 25-23 and complete the match with a 3-0 victory.
 
Up Next
The Eagles will return home to face off against Idaho State on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 4 p.m. and against Weber State on Saturday, Oct.19 at 11 a.m., for the homecoming and alumni match.   
 
ABOUT EASTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
Eastern Washington University Athletics sponsors 14 intercollegiate sports, six for men and eight for women, both as learning opportunities for its most athletically talented students and as an enhancement to student and community life. Eastern is affiliated with Division I of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and is a member of the Big Sky Conference, an association of 10 regional schools with comparable enrollments and academic goals.

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