No. 13 Montana State Prepared for First-Round Matchup with No. 4 Ohio State

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Tournament approaches, the No. 13-ranked Montana State Bobcats find themselves gearing up for an exciting and daunting first-round matchup against the powerhouse No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes. The Bobcats, making their first appearance in the tournament in years, are ready to take on one of the most formidable programs in college volleyball. Ohio State, with its rich history and deep roster of talent, is widely considered one of the favorites to make a deep run in this year’s tournament. However, Montana State isn’t intimidated by the challenge ahead; instead, they are excited to test their mettle against one of the best.

This first-round matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between a team on the rise and a perennial contender. Montana State enters the tournament with a lot to prove, while Ohio State looks to extend its championship aspirations. As the two teams prepare for their encounter, there are a number of key factors to consider regarding how each team’s strengths and weaknesses might play out in this exciting showdown.

Montana State’s Rise to the Tournament

Montana State’s inclusion in the 2025 NCAA Tournament is a historic moment for the program. The Bobcats have built a reputation as a rising force in volleyball, particularly in the Big Sky Conference, where they have steadily established themselves as a top contender. Under the guidance of head coach Daniel Jones, Montana State has evolved from a mid-tier team to one of the most exciting underdogs in the nation.

The Bobcats’ 2025 season has been a testament to their resilience and growth. They finished the regular season with an impressive 23-7 record, earning a No. 13 seed in the tournament after a strong conference campaign. Montana State’s rise to prominence has been built on a solid team concept, with a balanced attack, strong defense, and a high level of coaching. Their road to the tournament wasn’t easy, but their performance throughout the year earned them a place among the best.

Montana State’s offensive success has largely been driven by their standout outside hitter Sophia Malm, who has had an outstanding season, earning multiple Player of the Year honors in the Big Sky Conference. Malm is a dominant force at the net and has been the focal point of the Bobcats’ attack, leading the team in kills, points, and digs. Her versatility makes her a weapon both offensively and defensively, and she’ll be one of the key players to watch in the upcoming matchup with Ohio State.

Beyond Malm, Montana State has a talented roster that features a deep lineup of skilled players. Anna Mullen, the Bobcats’ setter, has been instrumental in distributing the ball and keeping the offense flowing. Mullen’s ability to create opportunities for her teammates will be vital against an Ohio State team that is known for its tough defense and block presence. Montana State’s defense, led by Libero Katie Lutz, has also been a standout. Lutz’s leadership in the back row will be crucial, as Ohio State’s high-powered offense will undoubtedly test the Bobcats’ ability to dig and defend.

Ohio State: A National Powerhouse

Ohio State enters the NCAA Tournament as one of the heavy favorites to win it all. Ranked No. 4 in the country, the Buckeyes have been dominant all season in the Big Ten, one of the most competitive conferences in college volleyball. Under the leadership of head coach Kevin Burch, Ohio State has been firing on all cylinders, with one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the country. Their mix of offensive firepower, defensive stability, and tournament experience makes them a tough team to beat.

At the heart of Ohio State’s offense is senior outside hitter Emily Londot, who has been a key contributor for the Buckeyes throughout the season. Londot’s combination of power and finesse at the net has allowed her to be one of the most dangerous attackers in the country. She is joined by a talented cast, including Madi Kubik, who has proven herself as one of the best all-around players in college volleyball. The Buckeyes also have a strong middle blocker in Riley Stensberg, whose ability to both block and attack makes her a critical part of the team’s success.

Ohio State’s setter Mac Podraza is another standout, capable of distributing the ball with precision to all parts of the court. Podraza’s ability to read defenses and set up her teammates has made her one of the best facilitators in the nation, allowing the Buckeyes to run an offense that can score in a variety of ways. The team’s defense, anchored by libero Jenaisya Moore, is equally impressive. Moore’s ability to dig tough shots and keep plays alive will be key in neutralizing Montana State’s offense.

One of Ohio State’s strengths lies in its versatility. Whether it’s pounding the ball from the outside, exploiting gaps in the block, or countering with strong serving, Ohio State has the tools to succeed in any type of matchup. Their experience in high-pressure situations, including multiple deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, provides them with an edge over teams like Montana State. However, the Buckeyes will need to remain focused, as the Bobcats are a team that can pull off an upset if given the opportunity.

Key Matchup: Montana State’s Defense vs. Ohio State’s Offense

The most intriguing aspect of this first-round matchup is how Montana State’s defense will fare against Ohio State’s explosive offense. Montana State has faced its share of tough teams throughout the season, but nothing compares to the firepower that Ohio State brings. The Buckeyes’ offensive attack is relentless, with multiple weapons at their disposal. Londot and Kubik are both capable of putting up huge numbers, while Stensberg and other players provide a strong presence at the net.

Malm and the Bobcats’ defense will be tasked with stopping Ohio State’s dynamic outside hitters. Katie Lutz, the libero, will need to be at her best, making sure the Bobcats can dig out Ohio State’s powerful attacks and give the offense a chance to score. Malm, who has shown her ability to be a two-way player, will need to contribute on both ends of the floor—keeping Montana State’s offense moving while also slowing down Ohio State’s outside attack.

Blocking will also be a crucial factor in this matchup. Montana State will need to set up strong blocks to slow down Ohio State’s hitters and force them into uncomfortable positions. The Bobcats have shown that they can be effective in this area, but Ohio State’s versatility and quick ball movement will make it a tough task.

Ohio State’s Serving Game: A Key Weapon

Another aspect of the match that could prove pivotal is Ohio State’s serving game. The Buckeyes have one of the most aggressive and effective serving units in the country. Their ability to put pressure on the opposition with tough serves often forces teams into errors and makes it difficult for them to establish their offense. Madi Kubik, in particular, has a strong serve that can disrupt the flow of the opponent. Montana State will need to handle Ohio State’s serves with precision and avoid giving up easy points.

If the Bobcats can pass well and handle the serves effectively, they’ll be able to set up their offense and run their plays. However, if Ohio State is able to serve aggressively and keep Montana State out of system, it could spell trouble for the Bobcats.

Montana State’s Path to an Upset

While Ohio State is undoubtedly the favorite in this matchup, Montana State has the potential to pull off the upset with the right strategy and execution. The Bobcats’ balanced offense, led by Malm, is capable of producing points and testing Ohio State’s defense. If Montana State can execute a strong defensive game plan, stay composed in pressure situations, and limit their unforced errors, they could give Ohio State a run for their money.

One key factor will be the play of Anna Mullen, the setter, who will need to distribute the ball effectively and keep Ohio State guessing. If Mullen can get the ball to her hitters in good positions, it will give Montana State a fighting chance to keep the match competitive.

Additionally, Montana State will need to execute in high-pressure situations. Playing against a team like Ohio State means that the margin for error is small, and the Bobcats will need to stay mentally tough when the game gets tight. This is where their leadership, including the experience of players like Malm and Lutz, will come into play. They will need to set the tone for the team and ensure that everyone is playing with confidence.