#2 Hawai'i dispatched UC Irvine in four sets, 3-1, improving to 28-5 behind a relentless attacking rhythm that overwhelmed the Anteaters at Pauley Pavilion.
The Rainbow Warriors' ability to sustain pressure across all rotations was the difference. UC Irvine, now 20-8, pushed but couldn't string together enough consecutive points to shift momentum. Every time the Anteaters threatened, Hawai'i had an answer — a testament to why they sit at #2 in the country.
For UC Irvine, the loss stings but doesn't define a 20-win season. The Anteaters have proven they belong on the floor with anyone, and the postseason picture still favors a group that has shown resilience all year. Hawai'i, meanwhile, continues to look every bit the title contender — a team peaking at exactly the right time, with a roster that plays like it knows exactly what it is.
Data via ESPN · Summarized by D1Ball's editorial engine from official statistics.
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