Valkyries Open 2026 Season With a Thrilling 5-Set Win Over the Rise
ORLANDO, Fla. — The 2026 Major League Volleyball season kicked off in dramatic fashion on Friday night as the Orlando Valkyries opened their title defense at Addition Financial Arena with a nail-biting 3-2 victory over the Grand Rapids Rise. In front of an energized home crowd, the defending champions battled back from a 2-1 set deficit to secure the win in five sets (25-20, 21-25, 20-25, 25-23, 15-4), setting the tone for a season full of excitement and competitive volleyball.
"Women’s pro sports are must-watch, and nights like this prove it. The energy in the building, the passion from the fans, and the level of play were unreal. Orlando absolutely delivered — this is exactly what the future of women’s professional sports should look like."
— Ricky Bumgardner Jr., Owner, Florida Heat Professional Softball Team
Championship Night Energy
Before a single point was played, the arena was buzzing. Fans packed the stands to celebrate the unveiling of the Valkyries’ 2025 championship banner and ring ceremony, creating a championship-caliber atmosphere that carried throughout the evening. Orlando supporters made it clear this wasn’t just another regular-season match — it was the launch of another chapter for a team with serious title aspirations.
The crowd’s energy was palpable from the opening serve. Every rally was met with loud cheers, and even during the tough second and third sets — when Orlando briefly fell behind — the fans remained fully engaged and vocal. That kind of electric support is exactly what professional volleyball needs, and Orlando delivered.
Back-and-Forth Battle
The Valkyries started strong, capturing the first set 25-20 behind solid offensive execution and strong leadership from last year’s league MVP, Brittany Abercrombie. But the Rise answered back, storming ahead in sets two and three with a balanced attack led by Elizabet Inneh, who racked up a team-high 19 kills in her Rise debut.
Despite trailing 2-1, Orlando refused to wilt. Fueled by the home crowd’s energy, the Valkyries rallied in the fourth set, edging out the Rise 25-23 in a tense finish that kept fans on their feet. Then, in the decisive fifth set, Orlando came out firing — scoring early and often en route to a commanding 15-4 finish.
Standout Performances
-
Charitie Luper enjoyed one of her best nights as a Valkyrie, finishing with 22 kills and 25 digs, showing why she’s a player to watch this season.
-
Brittany Abercrombie led all scorers with 27 points, proving her offensive firepower is still elite.
-
The Rise, meanwhile, got key contributions from multiple players, reflecting the toughness of a team that challenged Orlando all night.
Fans Were Into It
This wasn’t just a volleyball match — it was a fan experience. The crowd stayed loud through long rallies, celebrated big points with chants and applause, and kept the energy high even when the Rise pushed ahead in the middle sets. And when Orlando’s comeback began? The arena exploded, with cheers growing louder and louder as momentum shifted back to the Valkyries.
It was the kind of atmosphere that makes going to live volleyball unforgettable — passionate fans, dramatic swings in momentum, and a thriller that went the distance.
A Statement to Start the Season
With their 3-2 win in front of the faithful, the Valkyries showed they’re ready to defend their title and compete at the highest level all season long. The performance highlighted not only Orlando’s championship DNA but also the growing enthusiasm for professional volleyball in the Orlando market.
If this opener is any indication, MLV fans are in for a great 2026 season.