The stage is set for a controversial volleyball match at UNLV’s Cox Pavilion. San Jose State, which has been the target of protests throughout the season regarding transgender athletes in sports, will face Colorado State in the Mountain West tournament championship game on Saturday at 2 p.m. The winner of this match will earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
The top-seeded Rams secured their spot in the title game by defeating San Diego State in the semifinals. On the other hand, San Jose State, who received six forfeit wins in the regular season, including a first-round bye and advancing to the final when Boise State forfeited, will be playing in their first tournament match.
Colorado State coach Emily Kohan confirmed that her team will be contesting the title match against San Jose State. Despite external pressure not to play, the Rams decided to move forward and face the Spartans in the championship game. Kohan emphasized the importance of courage and making tough decisions in such a complex and emotional season.
The Spartans were slated to play in the semifinals but ended up watching the game as Boise State forfeited due to undisclosed reasons. However, two players from Boise State are part of a lawsuit filed against the Mountain West, which aimed to disqualify a transgender player on San Jose State’s team. The lawsuit was denied by the court, allowing San Jose State to continue in the tournament.
Outside of Cox Pavilion, protesters, including Beth Bourne, voiced their concerns about transgender inclusion in sports. Bourne, affiliated with Moms for Liberty, emphasized the need for fair competition among athletes of the same sex. Despite facing opposition from some fans and parents, Bourne and her group continue to advocate for their cause.
The history between Colorado State and San Jose State adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming final. The Rams have faced the Spartans twice this season, with each team securing a victory. San Jose State will be looking to win their first conference volleyball championship, while dealing with legal challenges and controversy surrounding their team.
As the championship game approaches, the focus shifts to the showdown between Colorado State and San Jose State. Both teams are determined to leave their mark and secure a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament. The match promises to be intense, not just on the court but also in the context of the ongoing controversy surrounding transgender athletes in sports. Stay tuned for the final showdown at Cox Pavilion on Saturday at 2 p.m.
