Grizzlies 24-game conference win streak comes to an end on the road at Dodge City

The Grizzlies dropped a heartbreaker in five sets at Dodge City on Wednesday, losing their first conference match since the spring of 2021 falling on the road to the Conquistadors in five sets (25-23, 21-25, 15-25, 25-20, 16-18.)

The Grizzlies came from behind to force the fifth set after losing the third, rallying to win in the fourth set. It was an absolute battle in the decisive set, and the Grizzlies were down to their last point twice, coming back to tie things at 15 and 16 respectively, but could not get themselves back in front and the Conqs did enough to win the match.

It's the first loss to Dodge City for the Grizzlies since 2016, and the first conference loss since March 15th, 2021, and ends a run of 24 consecutive conference matches without a defeat.

Kennedy Kelly led the Grizzlies in attack with 14 kills, also contributing three aces,  while Carrie Roe was close behind with 10. Setter of the week Rainey Aven contributed eight kills and 31 assists.

The Grizzlies fall to 10-5, and 6-1 in conference play. It's a quick turnaround for Butler as they play the defending national champs for the second time this season, this time facing Iowa Western in Hutchinson at the Blue Dragon Show Down. The Grizzlies will play four matches across Friday and Saturday, also facing off with No. 17 Mineral Area College, No. RV Missouri State West Plains, and No. 2 Indian Hills.