The 2026 Major League Volleyball Championship semifinals delivered a dramatic end to the San Diego Mojo’s third and final season as a franchise, as the team fell to the Dallas Pulse in a hard-fought four-set match at Comerica Center in Frisco, Texas. The loss, finalized Thursday evening with set scores of 28-30, 25-18, 25-17, and 25-10, marked the conclusion of the Mojo’s championship run and sent Dallas into the championship final against the Omaha Supernovas for the “Match For A Million.”
The Mojo’s season had been a rollercoaster, beginning with a 1-6 start before a remarkable turnaround saw them win 14 of their next 20 matches and clinch a playoff berth. Their journey to the semifinals was a testament to resilience, especially under first-year head coach Alisha Childress, who guided the team through a remarkable late-season surge. This postseason appearance was the second in franchise history, following their inaugural season in 2024.
For the Pulse, the victory was a milestone in their inaugural season as an expansion team, joining the Indy Ignite as the second franchise to reach the championship final in its first year. The win also set the stage for a high-stakes showdown with the Supernovas, a team Dallas had already defeated three times this season. The championship match, dubbed the “Match For A Million,” is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, at 2 p.m. CT, with tickets on sale and the game airing live on ION Television and Scripps Sports Network.
The Mojo’s Final Stand: A Season of Highs and Lowlights
The Mojo’s path to the semifinals was far from straightforward. After a sluggish start, the team rallied to secure 14 wins in their last 20 games, a turnaround that propelled them into the postseason. Their semifinal match against Dallas was a test of endurance, with both teams trading blows across four sets. The Mojo’s offense was led by Grace Loberg, who delivered a double-double with 14 points on 13 kills and one block, along with 10 digs. Jovana Brakočević, in the final match of her decorated professional career, contributed 13 points, including 11 kills, one ace, and one block, along with eight digs.
Taylor Sandbothe hit .368 with seven kills on 19 swings, adding two blocks and seven digs, while Maya Tabron recorded 11 points with nine kills, one ace, and one block, and led the team with 13 digs. Marlie Monserez provided stability at the setter position with 32 assists, and Shara Venegas added 10 digs. Despite their efforts, the Pulse’s momentum in the third and fourth sets proved too much to overcome, as Dallas closed out the match with a commanding 25-10 victory in the final set.
A Season of Firsts and Farewells
The Mojo’s semifinal loss was bittersweet, as it also marked the end of Brakočević’s professional career. The veteran opposite hitter, known for her leadership and skill, brought her experience and determination to the court one last time. Her contributions were invaluable, and her presence left a lasting impact on the team and the league.
For the Mojo’s ownership, the decision to step away from the league after three seasons was announced just days after the semifinal loss. Owner Gary E. Jacobs, a longtime San Diegan and UC San Diego alumnus, expressed a desire to take a break and reorganize for a potential return in 2028. The Mojo’s commitment to growing the game of volleyball in Southern California through youth clinics and community partnerships will continue, even as the team takes a hiatus from competition.
Dallas Pulse: A Rising Force in Their Inaugural Season
The Pulse’s victory was a statement of intent, as they became the second expansion franchise to reach the championship final in their first season. Their success was built on the shoulders of standout players like Sofia Maldonado-Diaz, who led the attack with 21 kills and four blocks, and setter Natalia Valentin-Anderson, who dished out 50 assists for her ninth match with 50 or more this season.
The Pulse’s road to the final was not without challenges, but their ability to close out matches in the postseason demonstrated their growth as a team. Their semifinal win over the Mojo set the tone for their championship match against the Supernovas, a team they had already defeated three times during the regular season. The stakes could not be higher, as the winner will take home a million-dollar prize.
The Road Ahead: Championship Final and Beyond
The championship final between the Dallas Pulse and the Omaha Supernovas is set for Saturday, May 9, at 2 p.m. CT. The match will air live on ION Television and Scripps Sports Network, with tickets available for purchase. Fans can expect a high-energy showdown, as both teams look to claim the title and the million-dollar prize.
As the season draws to a close, the Major League Volleyball continues to make strides in elevating the sport through world-class competition and commercial innovation. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV remains the premier pathway for athletes aiming to reach the world stage.
For updates on the championship match and the future of Major League Volleyball, visit ProVolleyball.com. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and predictions on social media using the hashtag #MLV2026.
