While he didn't want to make excuses, it was tough for Jeff Cook's side to deal with a tumultuous week complicated by a non-COVID-19 illness.
The Nittany Lions were shocked in a big way by Hofstra in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Penn State women's volleyball (19-9, 12-6 Big Ten) lost to No. 10 Ohio State (23-5, 13-6 Big Ten) in four sets Saturday afternoon (23-25, 25-22, 11-25, 21-25).
The Nittany Lions played a strong first half to match South Carolina, but were unable to get back on their feet after the Gamecocks scored twice in the second half.
Makenna Marisa notched her second consecutive 25-plus-point game, but it wasn't enough to carry the Lady Lions over the Tigers.
While the tournament victory was powered by a well-rounded team effort, one highlight was the team's defensive showing. Penn State gave up zero goals throughout the entire Big Ten Tournament by shutting out Michigan State, Michigan, and Indiana in three consecutive matches.