CHICAGO (Feb. 25, 2022) – The No. 14 Loyola University Chicago men's volleyball team will be back in Gentile Arena to host the No. 10 Lewis University Flyers following their match against the McKendree Bearcats on Thursday, Feb. 24. The last time these MIVA rivals faced each other was in the conference final at the end of the 2021 season. 
 
LAST TIME OUT
The Ramblers faced off against the McKendree Bearcats in hopes of keeping their win streak alive. However, the Bearcats took that away. The Ramblers grabbed the first two sets with ease, but McKendree wasn't going out without a fight. They ended up grabbing the last three sets from Loyola to put the Maroon and Gold at 4-1 in the MIVA. 
 
FIGHTING THE FLYERS
Lewis continues to be one of the top teams in the nation, but they haven't had the best start to MIVA play. They only have two wins against Quincy and then No. 12 Ohio State, while taking losses to former No. 10 Ball State, Lindenwood and Purdue Fort Wayne. 
 
Not only are the Flyers ranked in the national polls, they are also ranked highly in the NCAA statistical categories. When it comes to blocks per set, Lewis is the No. 4 team in the country averaging 2.717. They are also eighth in hitting percentage and kills per set. 
 
Individually, super senior Tyler Mitchem is one of their key athletes. He ranks fourth individually in blocks per set with 1.318. He is also second in the nation for hitting percentage, boasting a .538. 
 
One of the primary setters, Kevin Kauling, is one of two players in the NCAA to record a double-double this season. He had 10 kills, 29 assists and 12 digs in a win over Grand Canyon. The Flyers run a 6-2 offense, meaning their setter sets from the back row so there are always three hitters. Their other setter is freshman Tyler Morgan.

WHEREABOUTS
The Ramblers will face off against the Flyers in Gentile Arena on Saturday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. The Mega Bowl, as some may call it, will be available on NBC Sports Chicago+. For those outside of that market, the game will also be available on ESPN3. There will also be live stats available.