BLOOMINGTON, IL. - The University of La Verne women's volleyball team is one win away from history as the Leopards prepare to face UW-Oshkosh in the 2025 NCAA Division III National Championship on Saturday afternoon. This marks La Verne's first championship appearance since 2008 and the program's fifth all-time, with the Leopards aiming to secure their first national title since 2001.

The matchup carries extra weight, as these two teams already crossed paths earlier this season in a highly competitive meeting. La Verne won that early-season battle 3-2, a match defined by long rallies, big swings, and momentum shifts - setting the stage for what promises to be another high-level fight on the sport's biggest stage.

Now, months later, both programs meet again, older, sharper, and playing their best volleyball at the perfect time. La Verne enters behind the firepower of senior outside hitter Mya Ray, the poise of junior outside hitter Lauren Gott, and the dominance of middle blocker Zacky Coaston, who continues to elevate her play throughout the postseason. The Leopards' balanced attack, blocking presence, and composure in tight moments carried them through a grueling semifinal, adding another chapter to their remarkable tournament run.

UW-Oshkosh brings a seasoned, physical lineup with strong ball control and an offense that thrives in transition. The Titans' resilience and discipline helped them reach championship Saturday, and they will be eager to even the series after falling to La Verne earlier this year.

With a national title on the line, Saturday's showdown features two teams who have earned their place and who match up as well as any pairing in Division III volleyball. For La Verne, it's a chance to cap a historic season with the program's first championship in 24 years. For the Titans, it's an opportunity to flip the script from their early-season meeting.

First serve is set for Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m. PST from the Shirk Center.

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