The Atlanta Vibe came up short Friday night, falling 3–1 to the Orlando Valkyries in the team’s penultimate match of the 2026 season.
Orlando wasted no time setting the tone, taking control early with a 25–16 win in the opening set. The Valkyries continued to apply pressure in the second, using consistent attacking and strong defense to secure a 25–18 victory and a 2–0 match lead.
Atlanta responded in the third set with renewed energy. Behind a breakout performance from outside hitter Maddie Isringhausen, the Vibe found their rhythm offensively and extended rallies defensively. Isringhausen delivered six kills in the set, helping Atlanta claim a 25–21 win and cut the deficit to 2–1.
The momentum shift proved short-lived. Orlando regained control in the fourth set, closing out the match with a 25–19 win to secure the 3–1 victory.
Taylor Smith led the way for Atlanta, recording her seventh double-double of the season with 13 kills and 15 digs, while adding two blocks. Isringhausen made the most of her first Major League Volleyball start, finishing with a career-high 12 kills along with eight digs and two blocks.
Aiko Jones contributed 10 kills and eight digs, continuing to provide a steady presence on the right side. Defensively, libero Elli McKissock anchored the back row with a match-high 20 digs, while setter Averi Carlson orchestrated the offense with 44 assists to go along with 13 digs, two kills and a block in an all-around effort.
With one match remaining, Atlanta will look to close out its season on the road as the Vibe travel to face the Columbus Fury on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET.
