Harvard Men’s Volleyball Set to Face Sacred Heart in Weekend Matchup

LEBANON, Ill. – Harvard men’s volleyball (5-12, 2-4 EIVA) concluded its Midwest trip with a straight-sets loss (21-25, 17-25, 13-25) against No. 13 McKendree (14-7, 6-4 MIVA) on Wednesday at the Melvin Price Convocation Center. The Crimson now prepares for a weekend series against Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, on Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28.

How the Match Against McKendree Unfolded

The first set was closely contested, remaining tied at nine apiece after errors from both teams. McKendree then built a 17-11 lead, but Harvard responded with three consecutive points off Bearcat errors. Despite closing the gap to 21-18 with a kill from Sawyer Nichols and an ace from Kai Gan, McKendree finished the set with a 4-1 run, winning 25-21.

McKendree dominated the second and third sets, preventing Harvard from mounting significant comebacks and securing the match in straight sets.

Key Performances for Harvard

Zach Bearty led the Crimson with nine kills and nine digs. Sawyer Nichols contributed five kills and two digs, although Kai Gan recorded 23 assists, marking the seventh time this season he has surpassed the 20-assist mark. Thomas Phung added four digs to the effort.

Looking Ahead: Sacred Heart Matchup

Harvard will resume its EIVA schedule with a two-game series against Sacred Heart. The first match is scheduled for Friday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m. ET, followed by a second game on Saturday, March 28. Details regarding live coverage of the Sacred Heart matches were not available at the time of publication.

Harvard Highlights

• Zach Bearty led the Crimson in both kills (9) and digs (9).
• Sawyer Nichols added five kills and two digs.
• Kai Gan finished the contest with 23 assists, passing the 20-assist mark for the seventh time this season.
• Thomas Phung also added four digs.