The twelve-match winning streak was snapped when EIU lost the opening match to Tennessee Tech in the final series of the regular season. The Panthers fall to 20-7 (14-3 OVC), while the Eagles improved to 14-15 (11-6 OVC).  

Set One: Like the past weekend, the Panthers were unable to create separation early in the set with the score even at 7 apiece. Both teams taking turns scoring multiple points in a row led us to a 15-13 Tennessee Tech advantage heading into the first media timeout. After the break in the action, the Eagles would strike first, having the largest lead of the set (20-17). EIU called time in hopes of finding a rhythm. Shortly after, the Panthers responded with a 3-0 scoring run to even the match at 20-20 as they entered the final stretch. The Eagles took charge to close out the set, scoring 5 out of the next 7 points to win 25-22.  

Set Two: After winning set one, the Eagles came out firing away, scoring four straight points to hold a 5-1 lead. However, Eastern Illinois responded with a scoring run of their own to minimize the deficit. Shortly after, the Panthers struck gold once again, using a 5-0 scoring run to take their first lead of the set (12-9). Both teams would continue to battle, with EIU holding a one-point edge heading into the media timeout. EIU would return from the timeout, extending their lead to 17-15, but as the set continued, it was a nail-biting finish. Eastern Illinois held set points after two kills by Katie Kopshever; however, Tennessee Tech would not go anywhere. The Eagles rattled off four straight points to steal set two 26-24. 

Set Three: The Eagles put their foot on the gas to begin set three with a 9-0 scoring run to take an early 10-4 lead. The Panthers continued to struggle, trailing 15-10 at the halfway mark. With their backs against the wall, EIU finally found a rhythm, scoring the next 5 out of 8 points to close the gap. Eastern Illinois continued to threaten a comeback, cutting the deficit to 20-18. Unfortunately, the Panthers came up short with a late timeout, unable to stop the momentum. Tennessee Tech closed out the match with a 25-20 victory.  

By The Numbers: Lilli Amettis directed the offense with 11 kills, 2 blocks, and a .348 hitting percentage. Rochaix totaled 31 assists, which was tied for the match high with the Eagles' Jordan Karlen. Defensively, Ariadna Pereles led the match with 15 digs. Emma Schroeder and Anaya Rawlinson each had 3 blocks. As a team, EIU had 37 kills, 35 assists, 5 service aces, and 6 blocks.   

EIU will be back in action tomorrow against Tennessee Tech to close out the regular season.