Postseason Preview: No. 6 Pride Set for GNAC Quarterfinal Matchup at No. 3 Rivier

WESTON, Mass. — The Regis College men's volleyball team will begin its postseason run tomorrow, April 7 on the road after closing out the regular season with a 3-0 sweep over Emerson. The win secured the No. 6 seed for the Pride, who will travel to face No. 3 Rivier University at 7 p.m.

The Pride have been led all season by junior setter Evan Shank, who has orchestrated the offense at a record-setting pace. Shank set a new single-season program record with 884 assists, while also establishing a four-set match record (43) and tying the program's match record with 53 assists. A six-time GNAC Setter of the Week, he currently leads the conference in both total assists and assists per set (9.40), while also contributing 30 service aces on the year.

One of his primary targets has been Adam Bonica, who leads the team with 280 kills (2.86 per set), ranking third in the conference. Bonica also put together an impressive eight-match stretch of double-digit kills and has added 29 service aces, second-most on the team.

Seniors Jalen Watt and John Nangle have been key contributors throughout the season. Watt has totaled a career-best 228 kills to go along with 139 digs, impacting both sides of the ball, while Nangle has anchored the net with a team-high 70 blocks and added 186 kills. Their leadership will be critical in postseason play.

First-year Haden Houatchanthara has continued to develop, recording double-digit digs in four of his last five matches while anchoring the back row. His recent play earned him his first collegiate weekly honor and will be key to the Pride's defensive efforts.

With a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, the Pride are poised to make a strong push in the postseason. The winner of the match will advance to face No. 2 Wentworth on Thursday.

2026 GNAC Men's Volleyball Tournament Schedule

Quarterfinals – Tuesday, April 7

(Hosted by higher seeds)

#3 Rivier vs. #6 Regis, 7 p.m.
#4 Emmanuel vs. #5 Elms, 6 p.m.

Semifinals – Thursday, April 9
(Hosted by higher seeds)

#1 Lasell vs. #4/5 winner, 6 p.m.
#2 Wentworth vs. #3/6 winner, 7 p.m.

Championship – Saturday, April 11

Semifinal winners, TBD