Grand Rapids Rise Took Over In Atlanta After Two Tight Opening Sets, The Grand Rapids Rise are still looking for their first win in the 2026 Major League Volleyball season after suffering a tough 3-0 loss to the Atlanta Vibe on January 11. They fought hard and kept the first two sets very close, but ultimately lost with scores of 29-27, 25-23, and 25-14.
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Ended The Game
The Atlanta Vibe (1-1 overall) ended the game with a team hitting percentage of .370, which is the third-highest percentage ever allowed by the Rise. Grand Rapids (0-2) had opportunities but lost the first two sets by only two points each at Gas South Arena.
Match Analysis
First Two Sets: Competitive Volleyball
The match started as a closely fought contest. In the first set, Atlanta went on a 5-0 run, but the Rise responded and tied the game at 18-18. After that, neither team led by more than two points in a tense exchange. The Rise displayed determination by saving four set points from Atlanta, but Vibe’s opposite hitter Anna Dixon ultimately finished the long set with a winning kill at 29-27. Rise hitter Elizabet Inneh-Pascu was impressive early on, achieving six kills in the first set alone.
The competitive spirit carried on into the second set. Grand Rapids took an early 8-4 lead, boosted by service aces from Carli Snyder and Alyssa Jensen, who was playing her first game of the season. However, Atlanta fought back, and the set was tied again late at 23-23. The Vibe secured a crucial 2-0 match lead with a key solo block from setter Shannon Shields and another set-winning kill from Dixon.
Third Set: Momentum Shifts Decisively
After the tight losses, the Rise’s challenge appeared to diminish in the third set. Atlanta seized control right away, with outside hitter Pia Timmer kicking off the set with an ace. The Vibe quickly built a solid 10-point lead at 14-4 and never looked back, wrapping up the match at 25-14. This final set ensured a straight-sets win, leaving the Rise to ponder the opportunities they let slip in the first two sets.
Key Statistics & Performance Gap
Although the score was tight at first, Atlanta’s strong offense and defense built a notable overall lead.
Atlanta Vibe vs. Grand Rapids Rise
| Category | Atlanta Vibe | Grand Rapids Rise | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kills | 52 | 39 | +13 for Vibe |
| Team Hitting Percentage | .370 | Not specified | Vibe’s 3rd-highest % allowed by Rise all-time |
| Digs | 63 | 35 | +28 for Vibe |
| Blocks | 8 | 3 | +5 for Vibe |
| Aces | 4 | 3 | +1 for Vibe |
Looking Ahead: The Road to Victory
The Grand Rapids Rise are now focused on their next chance to secure a win. Their upcoming schedule provides a fast turnaround and an opportunity for redemption in front of their home supporters.
The team is back at the welcoming Van Andel Arena for their next game against the Columbus Fury. This is a vital chance to reset, draw energy from the home crowd, and achieve that first victory of the new season.
Frequently Asked Questions: Grand Rapids Rise Took Over In Atlanta After Two Tight Opening Sets
When and where is the Rise’s next match?
The Grand Rapids Rise will play next on Wednesday, January 14, at 7 p.m. at Van Andel Arena against the Columbus Fury.
How can I watch or listen to Rise games?
Details about MLV matches can be found on the league’s official website.
Games are frequently shown on partner networks or available for streaming online.
Who were the top performers for the Rise in the Atlanta match?
Elizabet Inneh-Pascu, the outside hitter, topped the team with 12 kills, and Paige Briggs-Romine added a team-leading 13 total points (10 kills, 2 blocks, 1 ace).
What is the team’s record now?
Following this defeat, the Grand Rapids Rise start the 2026 season with a record of 0-2.