No. 5 USC men’s volleyball is on a mission, and their latest performance against Dominican University New York on Saturday was a clear statement of intent. The Trojans, who have largely cruised through their first nine games of the season, showcased the skill gap between them and their opponents to continue their undefeated start to the season — their strongest start since 1991. 

From the opening serve, USC (9-0) took control and never let up on its way to a straight-set 25-11, 25-9, 25-15 victory. Its explosive offense recorded 42 kills and a season-high hitting percentage of 0.691. Dominican (1-7) struggled to find its stride against the Trojans’ relentless pressure, managing just 20 kills and a 0.101 hitting percentage — key factors in the lopsided result. 

USC’s aggressive serving and disciplined play kept Dominican out of rhythm for much of the match, allowing the Trojans to dictate the tempo. The Chargers, led by redshirt freshman outside hitter Blake Krapf’s 8 kills, showed flashes but just could not maintain any consistency against USC’s overwhelming attack.

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Junior outside hitter Dillon Klein was a driving force behind the Trojans’ offensive onslaught, delivering a near-flawless performance. Klein recorded 9 kills on 10 attempts, finishing with an astonishing 0.900 hitting percentage. His keen court awareness and tactical precision made him a constant threat against the Chargers’ defense, consistently finding and capitalizing on openings. Whether it was a spike through the block or a well-placed shot into a gap, Klein’s execution was nothing short of precise.

“We want to be as well-prepared for the match as possible,” Klein said in a postgame press conference. “Whether it’s going into sixes, passing well or serving well, we’re going to scout [our opponent] and do the best we can to be ready.”

While Klein was the finisher, sophomore setter Caleb Blanchette was the orchestrator, conducting USC’s offense with precision and poise. The sophomore setter dictated the tempo throughout the match, racking up 26 assists and keeping Dominican’s defense off balance with his smart placement. 

Blanchette’s ability to spread the ball effectively ignited the Trojans’ attack, whether setting up Klein for kills or finding senior middle blocker Markus Olsson for a quick strike. Blanchette’s impact extended beyond just his setting, adding two aces from the service line, showcasing his versatility and all-around contribution to USC’s dominant performance. Blanchette’s court awareness and decision-making were crucial in maintaining the Trojan’s offensive rhythm.

“We focus on our side a lot,” Blanchette said. “We really try and keep it on our side of the net and bring each other up and embrace and celebrate each other. Keeping it on our side really helps create that energy.”

Though the Trojans’ offense set a high bar for the game, their defensive presence was equally imposing. Olsson played a pivotal role, delivering a flawless performance with 5 kills on five attempts for a perfect 1.000 hitting percentage while also contributing 4 blocks. 

“We practice all of it,” Olsson said. “Our coach likes to call it ‘bingo-bango’ plays — just a lot of out-of-system moments and then in those situations, you have to remain calm, put the ball high, slow down and then do our thing.”

Olsson’s presence at the net was undeniable, as he and freshman outside hitter Christian Connell formed a formidable duo that stifled Dominican’s attack. Olsson’s ability to read the Chargers’ hitters and make timely blocks disrupted their offensive rhythm, creating key opportunities for USC to counterattack.

Head Coach Jeff Nygaard emphasized the significance of veteran leadership and accountability within his team, crediting captains Klein and graduate middle blocker Guy Genis for keeping the team focused. 

“They’re holding a lot of accountability. They’re holding a lot of good conversations and keeping us focused on the eye of the prize,” Nygaard said.

With this win, USC now turns its attention to a highly anticipated set of matchups with No. 2 UC Irvine, which will be by far the most difficult test the Trojans have faced so far this season. Finding a way to raise their intensity and execution will be key if USC hopes to keep its win streak alive. The coaching staff hopes the Trojans’ difficult schedule so far, including a tricky Midwest road trip, has prepared them to take on the top teams in the nation.  

“If you look back to last week, we were 3-0 and three time zones away, and so that type of experience helps us prepare for matches like that,” Nygaard said. 

The Trojans will take on UC Irvine in a home-and-home this week, battling the Anteaters on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Bren Events Center in Irvine and return to Galen Center at 7 p.m. Friday for the second and final game.