Opening their abridged road trip, the Arizona State women’s volleyball team fell to No. 22 USC in four sets 25-15, 25-18, 27-25 and 25-20.
The loss extends ASU’s losing streak to seven matches and leaves them at the bottom of the Pac-12 standings with an 0-5 record in conference match play.
The Sun Devils were able to limit offensive errors, only committing 17 throughout the match, the team’s lowest number since a Sept. 16 loss to Portland State.
However, USC was able to execute its offense at will, registering a .347 attacking percentage against the Sun Devils defense.
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The Trojans finished the match with more kills (65) than ASU had digs (54).
ASU once again found itself in an early hole trailing 2-0 after being handily beaten in the first two sets.
In an attempt to get back into the match, the Sun Devils played up to their competition and grinded out a third set victory before falling in the fourth.
USC was led by a 22 kill performance from freshman outside hitter Khalia Lanier and 30 assists from junior setter Reni Meyer-Whalley.
The Sun Devils were led by outside hitters Ivana Jeremic and Lexi MacLean who had 10 kills each.
Now 0-5, ASU is running out of time to turn around its first season under new Head Coach Stevie Mussie.
Next: ASU Volleyball: Sun Devils Go Back on the Road
With 15 conference games remaining, the Sun Devils are still searching for an identity while playing in one of the most difficult conferences.
ASU will next face the UCLA Bruins on Friday in an attempt to turn its season around. That match will begin at 7 p.m. and will be available on Pac-12 Networks.