Westwood, CA – The UCLA Bruins men’s volleyball team pulled off another thrilling five-sets victory over No. 7 BYU on April 12, 2025, at a packed Pauley Pavilion, winning 23–25, 25–17, 25–17, 22–25, 15–11.
The win, UCLA’s second against BYU in just three days, marked a critical late-season statement, further positioning the Bruins as a top NCAA title contender. With unmatched energy, high-IQ execution, and dominant performances from multiple players, UCLA controlled key stretches of the match and proved once again they thrive under pressure.
Bruins Rebound and Respond with Tactical Brilliance
After narrowly dropping the first set, the Bruins adjusted and came roaring back in sets two and three. Their strategy? Aggressive serving, fast transitions, and forcing BYU into uncomfortable passes.
Led by setter Andrew Rowan, the Bruins ran a fast-paced, multi-option offense that kept BYU guessing. The backcourt dug deep to keep rallies alive, while the front line controlled the net. When BYU found a rhythm in the fourth set, UCLA didn’t blink. They dug in again and finished the fifth with intensity, winning the final set 15–11.
Key Player Highlights: Bruins Balanced and Bold
This win wasn’t carried by one star—it was built by a unit that’s learned to play as one.
- Andrew Rowan distributed the offense with confidence and precision. His quick sets and in-game adjustments made him the engine of the Bruins’ success.
- Cooper Robinson turned in another all-around performance, playing with high energy and contributing from both the front and back row.
- Sean Kelly was a force at the net, using smart placement and sharp timing to beat blocks and frustrate BYU’s defense.
- Cameron Thorne came up huge in momentum moments, delivering crucial blocks that sparked team-wide surges.
Together, they created an unstoppable rhythm that overwhelmed even one of the nation’s most disciplined teams.
Fan Energy, Home Court Impact
The energy inside Pauley Pavilion was unmistakable. Students, alumni, and volleyball fans packed the stands—and they didn’t sit still. The energy created by the UCLA fanbase had a clear effect on the momentum of the match.
This wasn’t just volleyball—it was an experience. A shared moment. And it reminded everyone why showing up matters.
Why This Win Matters
With postseason play looming, this win matters not just for rankings, but for rhythm. UCLA’s depth, discipline, and grit are on full display. This is a team that learns fast, adjusts faster, and plays with an edge that can carry them all the way to a national title.
Final Thoughts from the sidelines
Let’s keep it real: these Bruins are built for championship moments. If you haven’t been paying attention, now’s the time to lock in. They’ve got the talent, the coaching, the mindset—and the momentum.
Pauley Pavilion deserves to stay loud.
This team deserves a crowd.
Let’s pack it again. Let’s ride this wave all the way to the postseason.
