HONOLULU – The University of Hawai’i women’s volleyball team achieved a straight-set victory over Nevada in their first match of the final homestand for the 2026 regular season, hosted at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center. The Rainbow Wahine won with scores of 25-18, 25-20, and 25-15.
With this win, Hawai’i improved its overall record to 20-4 and maintained a strong 12-1 mark in Mountain West Conference play. In contrast, Nevada’s record fell to 5-18 overall and 3-10 in conference games.
With this point, Hawai’i sweeps Nevada! Both teams will be back in action on Saturday for the hana hou rematch!
— Hawaii News Now (@HawaiiNewsNow) November 6, 2026
Head coach Joshua Walker noted that the team faced early difficulties with passing but later found a strong offensive rhythm. “We didn’t end up giving up the ace, even though we were struggling a little bit with the first contact,” Walker stated. He also mentioned the team’s focus on neutralizing Nevada’s outside hitter, McKaley Herr, who did not score in the second half of the match.
Panna Ratkai led the Rainbow Wahine with a match-high 11 kills and added five service aces. Reflecting on the team’s performance, she emphasized their determination to improve following their recent loss to UC Davis. “Attitude was there the entire week,” Ratkai said. “We worked really hard, and every single one of my teammates gave all effort each practice, so I think we can see the result of that.”
Ratkai acknowledged that while the team has room for improvement, she was proud of their response after the previous weekend’s challenges. “I know we have more to improve still and clean up some of the mistakes that we had, but I’m really proud of how we came back after that last weekend,” she added.
The series will continue with a rematch against Nevada on Saturday, November 7, at 7 p.m. at Bankoh Arena. Coverage will begin at 6:30 p.m. on K5. Following this weekend, Hawai’i will conclude its regular-season home schedule with matches against Air Force on November 12 and 13.
