California Golden Bears Athletics

PULLMAN, Wash. – Senior Antzela Dempi moved into a tie for eighth place on Cal's single-season aces list but the Golden Bears fell at Washington State 25-23, 25-21, 25-15 on Friday night at Bohler Gym.

Dempi had three aces to give her 47 for the season, tying her with Teri Donohue, who also had 47 in 1985.

Dempi also led the Bears (13-14, 4-12 Pac-12) with 13 kills while junior Carmen Annevelink added 10 kills. Freshman Mima Mirkovic had eight kills and 15 digs while redshirt junior Ashten Smith-Gooden had seven kills at a .462 hitting percentage while also adding two blocks.

The Bears fell behind 8-3 in the first set but scored five in a row to tie it up. After then falling behind 15-13, Cal reeled off five straight points to go in front 18-15. But then it was the Cougars turn to make a five-point run as they established a 20-18 lead. The set was ultimately tied at 23-23 before Washington State scored the final two points to pull it out.

The Bears never held a lead in each of the final two sets.

Cal once again played without starting outside hitter Christine Alftin, starting setter Mackenzie Albrecht and libero Emma Smith, each of whom are sidelined with injuries.

Cal now returns home to play the final four matches of the regular season at Haas Pavilion. The Bears host No. 17 USC on Friday at 6 p.m.