NEWARK, NJ --- No. 19 Kean University captured its second New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Men’s Volleyball Championship on Wednesday evening, defeating No. 13 Rutgers-Newark, 3-1, at the Golden Dome. The title, which is awarded based on regular-season results against NJAC opponents, marks Kean’s first conference crown since 2019 and ends Rutgers-Newark’s five-year run as NJAC champions.

The Cougars secured the championship with set scores of 25-22, 25-23, 20-25, and 25-20. Kean showcased a balanced offensive effort throughout the match, highlighted by strong attacking performances and timely responses to Rutgers-Newark rallies.

Chris Mitchell led the way with 16 kills while adding 12 digs for a double-double. Caden Krzyzak was highly efficient with nine kills on a .571 hitting percentage, while Sean Murphy contributed eight kills and 10 digs. Danny Pugliano chipped in seven kills, and David Flores orchestrated the offense with 39 assists to go along with 10 digs.