MVB: Lasell Defeats Emerson in Straight Sets, 3-0

NEWTON, MA — The Lasell University men's volleyball team dominated Emerson College in a 3-0 victory (25-18, 25-22, 25-13), improving their record to 14-5 overall and 5-1 in Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) play.

The Lasell offense was firing on all cylinders as they closed out the match in three sets. Led by standout performances from freshman outside hitter Benjamin Walinjom, who tallied 9 kills, and sophomore Ben Villa, who recorded 6 kills on just 8 attempts, Lasell controlled the tempo throughout the match. The team finished with 31 kills on 58 attempts, hitting a solid .345.

Lasell's setter, Cody Bonilla, was key to the offensive success, contributing 19 assists and 7 digs. His well-timed sets allowed multiple players to contribute in the attacking game, while the defense was equally impressive, with Lasell recording 24 digs and 7 total blocks.

Emerson (5-8, 1-3 GNAC) struggled offensively throughout the match, hitting at a negative .069 for the match. Chase Fagen led the Lions with 4 kills but was hindered by 10 errors on 24 attempts, while Riley Goldman provided some positive energy with 3 kills and a .500 hitting percentage in set 3. Despite solid defensive efforts, Emerson couldn't find their rhythm on offense, totaling just 15 kills across three sets.

Lasell's defense held firm throughout the match, limiting Emerson to just 18 points in set one, 22 in set two, and a tough 13 in the final set. The team's block party featured contributions from multiple players, including Theo Zaharewicz, who added a block assist in the second set.

Looking ahead, Lasell will aim to continue their dominant run in the GNAC, while Emerson will look to regroup and bounce back in their next match.

Up Next: The Lasers will be back on the court March 20th, with a GNAC matchup against Regis College.