CAMBRIDGE, MASS. – Harvard men's volleyball (11-12, 3-7 EIVA) concluded its 2024 regular season slate this evening by falling, 3-1, to New Jersey Institute of Technology (11-14, 3-7 EIVA). 

How it Happened

The Highlanders took control of the first set early, holding advantages throughout the early points despite the Crimson being able to keep the contest close.  Midway through the set, NJIT was able to break away, growing its lead out to as many as nine.  Despite Harvard's attempt at a late push, the Highlanders were able to close out the opening set, 25-17, to gain a quick lead. 

An early Highlanders lead proved to be the difference in the second set as the Crimson were able to stay within four throughout the majority of play, but never breakthrough for a lead.  With every Harvard push, NJIT seemed to have an answer, ultimately holding off the Crimson to grab another set, 25-21. 

Despite NJIT controlling the early points of the third set, the Crimson caught fire with a 5-0 scoring run to go up 11-9 and force a Highlander timeout.  NJIT would not go away, retaking the lead at 14-13.  Harvard's pressure never faltered, taking back the lead by breaking a 15-15 tie and never losing it again.  The Crimson got on the board and closed out the third with a 25-23 decision. 

NJIT and Harvard tied nine times through the first 20 points of the match before Harvard used a 3-1 scoring run to create some distance at 13-11.  The Highlanders quickly flipped the script, using a strong 9-1 scoring run to overtake the set.  Despite Harvard holding off a pair of match points, the Highlanders were able to hold and finalize the match with a 25-20 fourth set. 

Harvard Highlights

• Owen Fanning led the team and posted a career-high 18 kills with a .400 hitting percentage in the contest.  The junior also added five digs on the night. 
• Zach Berty and Trevor Schultz each added seven kills throughout the match to contribute to the teams 43 total. 
• Adrian Shevchuk had a strong defensive day for the Crimson by registered a team-high nine digs and six block assists.  The first-year also led the team with 38 assists. 

Next Up

With the conclusion of regular season action this evening, the seeding for the 2024 EIVA Tournament are set.  With the Crimson, NJIT, and Charleston all sitting at 3-7 in conference action, the tiebreaker earns Harvard the No. 5 and it is set for a rematch against the Highlanders on Wednesday, April 17.