In a match defined by grit and momentum swings, Cottey College came up just short in a five-set battle against Mission (Mo.), falling 2–3 (26–24, 17–25, 24–26, 25–19, 14–16) on Tuesday evening in Springfield.

The Comets opened strong, edging Mission in a tightly contested first set behind efficient hitting and clutch defense. After dropping the second, Cottey nearly stole the third but was edged 24–26. Refusing to fold, the team roared back in the fourth with a 25–19 win to force a decisive fifth set. Despite trailing early, Cottey rallied to tie the final frame at 14–14 before Mission closed the match with two final points.

Magdalen Dougherty led the Comets with 15 kills and 18 digs, hitting .222 and contributing 17.0 total points. Ryleigh Dean was dominant at the net, posting a match-best .529 hitting percentage with 10 kills and 3 blocks. Serafina Auberry added 10 kills and 12.0 points, while Elena Adams chipped in 9 kills and 3 blocks.

Setter Saylah Rea distributed 27 assists and added 12 digs, while libero Morgan Koch anchored the back row with 14 digs. Mckinzie Bohrer served up 6 aces and contributed 7.0 points overall.

As a team, Cottey hit .153 and out-blocked Mission 8–6. Mission (Mo.) hit .127, led by Allie Czachowski's 19 kills and 23.0 points.

Despite the loss, the Comets showed resilience and depth across the board. With postseason play approaching, the team continues to build momentum and chemistry in high-pressure moments.