Boise State withdraws from Mountain West volleyball tournament rather than play San Jose State
Boise State, which twice boycotted regular-season matches with San Jose State, pulled out of the Mountain West women’s volleyball tournament Wednesday night even after securing a spot in the semifinals against the Spartans.San Jose State, which received six forfeit victories because of boycotts from Mountain West opponents, is seeded second in the conference tournament and received a first-round bye.Now the Spartans will advance all the way to Saturday’s championship match rather than take the court Friday.Boise State released a statement that read: “The decision to not continue to play in the 2024 Mountain West Volleyball Championship tournament was not an easy one.Our team overcame forfeitures to earn a spot in the tournament field and fought for the win over Utah State in the first round on Wednesday.
They should not have to forgo this opportunity while waiting for a more thoughtful and better system that serves all athletes.”San Jose State said it would issue a statement Thursday.Boise State’s announcement came hours after the Broncos defeated Utah State 25-19, 18-25, 25-20, 25-23 in the quarterfinals.Boise State didn’t commit immediately after the match to playing San Jose State.What went into its decision to withdraw from the tournament was unclear, whether it was by a team vote or more of a university decision.The title match likely will go on as scheduled.
San Jose State will play either top-seeded Colorado State or No.5 San Diego State.
Both teams played the Spartans this season rather than sit out.Mountain West members Boise State, Wyoming, Utah State and Nevada as well as Southern Utah canceled games this season against the Spartans.Nevada’s players stated they “refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes,” without providing further details.Idaho Gov.Brad Little signed an executive order Aug.
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