Redbirds Fall in Opener in New Jersey

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. – Battling both the tournament host and weather-related travel issues on their trip to New Jersey, the Illinois State volleyball team dropped its 2026 season opener at Seton Hall on Friday afternoon, 25-18, 25-19, 25-23. HOW IT HAPPENED First Set (18-25): The Redbirds jumped out quickly, leading by two, at both 3-1 and 4-2, early in the first frame. The host Pirates fought back, tying the game at five, six, seven, and eight points, before jumping out to a three-point, 11-8 lead. From there, the Redbirds were playing catch-up, as ISU was able to knot the score…