Team USA called in reinforcements after Matt Anderson and TJ De Falco opted out of the ongoing FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Ethan Champlin, 23, made an immediate impact in his first appearance for the national team on the world stage.
Facing a gritty Colombian squad, the University of California, Los Angeles standout left no doubt of his presence. He finished with 17 points on 12 attacks, two blocks, and three service aces.
Champlin also contributed four digs and two excellent receptions, helping Team USA’s defense secure a debut win.
Representing the Stars and Stripes once again was an honor for Champlin, who previously debuted at the 2021 Pan Am Cup and, more recently, the 2025 Volleyball Nations League.
“It was awesome. I’m playing with the guys I’ve been with all summer, with a few new additions like Taylor (Averill) and Micah (Christenson),” said the former U21 standout.
“But these are my best friends — the guys I hang out with most. It’s just great to get out there and get this win.”
After missing out on the Top Eight in the last two VNL seasons, Champlin felt thrilled to step up and help secure Team USA’s first win in this tournament.
“It feels good, and I owe a lot to my teammates. They helped me in so many ways, and it’s nice to give back through my play on the court. At the end of the day, my success is based on the team. Volleyball is a team game. Micah was able to set me up in the right spots, and it’s reassuring to know my teammates have my back — I’ve always got theirs,” the wing spiker added.
It was also a welcome turnaround for the United States, aiming to shake off a lackluster performance in the 2024 VNL at the same venue. Champlin was proud of how the team closed out a dominant performance against the South Americans.
“It feels great. The first game is always tough — you’re stepping onto the court for the first time, and it was an early match, which is a bit difficult. But we train in the mornings, so it kind of felt like practice for us. Colombia was a great first opponent, and I really like that team,” Champlin said.
“To come away with a win in the opening game is an amazing feeling.”
#WATCH: “THESE ARE MY BEST FRIENDS”
Ethan Champlin cherishes every moment with Team USA in the #MWCH2025! 🇺🇸🏐
🎥 @seol_gongchan /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/HZdTNYWfvg
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 13, 2025
