A busy day for Griffon Athletics got off to an incredible start Saturday with the Missouri Western volleyball team knocking off No. 5 Washburn in three sets, 25-22, 25-21 and 25-20.

It was the first time MWSU beat Washburn since Nov. 9, 2001 and the Griffons first win over a ranked team since 2009. Missouri Western had not topped a top-10 team since 2005 when they defeated No. 10 Central Missouri.

Offensively, Missouri Western had a balanced attack with four players having at least eight kills. MWSU was led again by Jessie Thorup for the second straight day. Thorup posted a .361 kill percentage and finished with 16 total kills. Kelsey Olion was second on the team with nine kills and a .438 kills percentage. Amanda Boender and Erica Rottinghaus had eight kills each.

Jordan Chohon continued her effective play with 36 assist in the match. The Griffons relied on Rottinghaus and Sarah Faubel each posting 10 digs.

The win moves the Griffons to 8-3 overall and 2-1 in MIAA play. Washburn is now 10-1. MWSU heads to Maryville Tuesday night for a 7 p.m. match with the Bearcats.

— MWSU Sports Information —