Volleyball Falls in MPSF Title Game
June 21, 1999 | Men's Volleyball
May 1, 1999
PROVO, Utah - Despite 37 kills from freshman Brook Billings and 32 from sophomore Eli Fairfield, the No. 7 USC men's volleyball team lost in the MPSF championship game, 14-16, 15-9, 15-8, 15-11, to No. 1 BYU on Saturday night in front of 5,558.
In addition to winning the title, BYU (28-1) earned a spot in the NCAA Final Four. Unless USC (17-11) receives a surprise at-large berth to the NCAAs, the Trojans' season is over.
Billings and Fairfield combined for 69 of the Trojans' 102 kills. Sophomore Trevor Julian added 13 kills. Junior setter Donald Suxho had 92 assists and 12 digs.
BYU only had a total of 92 kills, but had a 24-14 block advantage.
"My hat's off to BYU," USC Coach Pat Powers said. "They played a great match. BYU blocked really well.
"Right now, I think we are the second-best team in the nation. I really believe that but our record might not reflect getting into the tournament. Long Beach State has a better record."
Said BYU Coach Carl McGown: "USC gave us a lot of trouble. USC is a real good team and that was a very good volleyball match. This match should help prepare us for the NCAAs."
The Trojans had previously upset Pepperdine and Long Beach State to reach the final.
