Indy Ignite Upsets Reigning Champions in Orlando Thriller

The Indy Ignite women’s volleyball team continued its strong start to the season Thursday night with an impressive road victory, defeating the defending league champion Orlando Valkyries 3–1 on the road at Addition Financial Arena.

Indy took control early, winning the opening set 25–18 before Orlando responded with a narrow 25–23 win in the second. The Ignite regained momentum in a tightly contested third set, edging the Valkyries 27–25, and then closed out the match with a 25–18 victory in the fourth.

The win marked a statement performance for the Ignite against one of the league’s top teams and pushed Indy to a perfect 3–0 record to begin the season.

Head coach Lauren Bertolacci praised her team’s composure and depth following the match. Indy used a varied lineup and balanced offensive attack, with six players finishing with double-digit kills. The Ignite also set franchise records for most kills (66) and most points (86) in a four-set match.

Kayla Lund led the way in her first start of the season, recording 14 kills while adding 13 digs, a block and two service aces. Emoni Bush followed with 13 kills and two aces, while Azhani Tealer provided a spark off the bench with 10 kills.

Setters Ainise Havili and Mia Tuaniga shared playmaking duties, combining for 59 assists as the Ignite offense kept Orlando off balance throughout the night.

The victory in Orlando was a notable milestone for the franchise and served as another sign of the team’s early chemistry and confidence.

The Ignite now return home for their home opener at Fishers Event Center, where they will face the Omaha Supernovas. With momentum on their side and growing fan support in Central Indiana, Indy will look to continue its unbeaten run in front of a hometown crowd.