Atlanta Vibe wins against San Diego Mojo 3-1, On February 1, 2026, the Atlanta Vibe defeated the San Diego Mojo at home with a score of 3-1 after winning the last three sets.
San Diego (1-6) started strong by winning the first set, 25-18, but the Vibe dominated the rest of the match.
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“I’m proud that this team will keep fighting and battling, and that’s the kind of group I want to be with,” said Atlanta Head Coach Kayla Banwarth after the match.
Display of Resilience
In a strong show of determination, the Atlanta Vibe ended a three-game losing streak by beating the San Diego Mojo 3-1 at Gas South Arena. After losing the first set, the Vibe (3-4) demonstrated their depth and strategic changes to win the last three sets, giving a much-needed boost to their 2026 Major League Volleyball (MLV) season. The Mojo (1-6), despite a good start and moments of brilliance, continued to look for a steady offensive rhythm.
This win was significant as it avenged a five-set defeat to San Diego earlier in the season – a loss that had ended Atlanta’s eight-match winning streak in the series.
Momentum Shift in Atlanta
The competition had a clear plot where one team started strong, but the other team responded with a strong and lasting effort.
First Set: Mojo Draw First Blood
San Diego started strong, using their defense to prolong rallies and annoy the Vibe’s attackers. This approach worked well, leading to a 25-18 set victory, putting Atlanta in a tough spot and hinting at a difficult night ahead for the home team.
Second Set: The Vibe Find Their Footing
In response to Coach Banwarth’s call to “find the good” and “lift each other up,” Atlanta made important defensive changes. The middle blocker duo of Raven Colvin and Khori Louis started to take control at the net. This solid defense led to a fast offense that surged to a strong 25-16 set win, dramatically changing the flow of the match.
Third & Fourth Sets: Atlanta’s Depth Seals the Deal
The third set turned into a classic, back-and-forth struggle typical of two teams experienced in five-set matches. With the score tied late, Atlanta’s even scoring – featuring important kills from various players – led them to a 26-24 victory.
Bringing that crucial momentum into the fourth set, the Vibe finished the match decisively. Star outside hitter Leah Edmond dominated with six kills in the last set, backed by strong blocking, to clinch the match-winning set and complete the comeback.
Key Players and Turning Points
The game was shaped by exceptional individual performances and tactical substitutions that changed its direction.
Atlanta Vibe vs. San Diego Mojo
| Category | Atlanta Vibe | San Diego Mojo |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 3 | 1 |
| Set Scores | 18-25, 25-16, 26-24, (Fourth set score not specified | |
| Top Scorer (Kills) | Leah Edmond (18) | Grace Loberg (Performance from previous match: 20 kills) |
| Key Distributor (Assists) | Averi Carlson (50) | Marlie Monserez (Season average: 10.20 per set) |
| Defensive Standout | Raven Colvin (Net control, leading league in blocks) | Shara Venegas (Ranked 3rd in league for digs per set) |
| X-Factor | Anna Dixon (15 kills off the bench) | Team defense & extended rallies |
Frequently Asked Questions: Atlanta Vibe wins against San Diego Mojo 3-1
How did Atlanta turn the match around after losing the first set?
Head Coach Kayla Banwarth praised the defensive changes made during the match and the team’s focused effort to challenge San Diego’s blockers. Adding Anna Dixon to the lineup gave a significant boost to the offense, and the team’s diverse scoring from various hitters stopped San Diego from focusing on just one player.
Who were the standout rookies in this match?
In Atlanta, setter Averi Carlson achieved a personal best with 50 assists and 22 digs, skillfully directing the offense.
Outside hitter Ava Martin added 12 kills and five digs in her first full match as a professional.
What is the history between these two teams?
Historically, Atlanta had been the dominant team, winning the first eight matches. However, San Diego ended that run with a five-set win earlier in the 2026 season. This victory for Atlanta serves as a redemption and paves the way for a more competitive rivalry in the future.