Freshman Duo Sparks long Beach State In Opening Weekend Sweep, Cryst and Pazanti Earn Big West Honors
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LONG BEACH, Calif.— Long Beach State opened the 2026 season with back-to-back straight-set wins, riding standout debuts from Jackson Cryst and Jake Pazanti to a strong start that earned both players Big West weekly honors. The Beach swept Lindenwood and McKendree at the Pyramid, with Cryst named Men’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week and Pazanti recognized as Freshman of the Week.
cryst anchored the beach defense in his first college matches, averaging 1.50 blocks per set and totaling nine rejections over the weekend. His presence at the net contributed to limiting opponents to a combined .157 hitting percentage and helped Long Beach State post an average of 3.33 blocks per set across the two matches. Cryst also contributed seven kills on a .462 attack clip, illustrating efficiency on both sides of the net.
Pazanti, likewise impressive in his collegiate debut, ran the Beach offense with poise, delivering 58 assists for an average of 9.67 per set. He guided Long Beach State to a team hitting percentage of .351 in the opening weekend. In addition to directing the offense, the freshman posted six kills on .750 hitting, collected 16 digs, added five blocks, and served two aces, making an impact in every facet of play during his first collegiate action.
Looking ahead, Long Beach State heads out on a three-game road swing through the Buckeye State, facing Central State, George Mason, and ohio State as the Beach press into early-season competition.
Key Weekend Stats
| Player | Role | Weekend Highlights | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson Cryst | Middle Blocker | 9 total blocks; 1.50 blocks per set; .462 hitting; 7 kills | Defensive Player of the Week |
| Jake Pazanti | Setter | 58 assists (9.67/set); .351 team hitting; 6 kills (.750); 16 digs; 5 blocks; 2 aces | Freshman of the Week |
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Team notes: Opponents hit .157; Beach average 3.33 blocks per set. |
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Evergreen Takeaways
Early-season breakthroughs from first-year players often set the tone for the year. Cryst’s blocking presence and Pazanti’s floor leadership illustrate how fresh talent can accelerate a program’s ceiling, especially when paired with veteran precision in serve-receive and transition offense.
Looking Ahead
next up for Long Beach State is a three-game road stretch in the Buckeye State. The Beach will test their depth against Central State, George Mason, and Ohio State as they continue to build chemistry and evaluate the rotation through non-conference play.
Your Take
How much impact should a strong freshmen class have on a team’s early-season success? Which element will drive Long Beach State’s success more this season—the blocking wall Cryst provides or Pazanti’s playmaking on the setting front?
Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us which matchup you’re most eager to watch this season.
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