US volleyball men now 2-0 in pool play at Olympics

The US men are 2-0 in preliminary pool play after a victory over Venezuela in their opener. The Italians are 1-1 having defeated Japan to open the tournament.

In other results, Russia edged Germany 25-27 25-21 21-25 25-23 16-14; and Poland beat Egypt 25-21 25-18 25-10.

A pall was cast over the US volleyball team following the stabbing death of Todd Bachman, the father of former Olympian Elisabeth “Wiz” Bachman McCutcheon.

Bachman’s wife, Barbara, was seriously injured in the attack at the Drum Tower, a popular tourist site. The assailant jumped to his death from the tower.

“I think the guys are playing hard. They’re doing it for Hugh, and their doing it for Wiz,” middle blocker Ryan Millar said.

McCutcheon spoke to The Associated Press late Monday. He has been comforting his wife.

Elisabeth Bachman McCutcheon, who represented US at 2004 Athens Olympics, was with her parents when they were attacked.

“She has shown incredible strength. The last couple of days we’ve been able to talk through it,” McCutcheon said.

“Obviously, it’s a lot of tears and a lot of hugs.” Barbara Bachman’s condition was upgraded on Monday from critical to serious but stable.

Ron Larsen took over as interim coach of the US men in McCutcheon’s absence. It is not known whether McCutcheon will resume his duties as head coach.

After an emotional but solemn victory in their first match, the US men were much more animated – and appeared more driven – against the Italians. Fans at the Capital Indoor Stadium chanted “U-S-A! U-S-A!” at the start.

The US trailed early in the first set, but then came back to tie it at 18 on Riley Salmon’s ace. Italy, however, prevailed on Paparoni Alessandro’s ace.

While the US team had the stronger service and finesse shots, Italy used height up front to its advantage. The Americans adjusted after getting by 25-22 in the second set to dominate the rest of the way.

Clayton Stanley had 23 points for the Americans, who are ranked third in the world. Italy, ranked 10th, was led by Hristo Zlatanov with 19 points.

USA volleyball chief executive Doug Beal on Monday released a statement offering condolences to the Bachman and McCutcheon families. Todd Bachman was an avid supporter of USA volleyball, particularly of the women’s team, and often traveled to competitions.

Beal also extended his gratitude to the US players. “No matter what the results, we are incredibly proud of these young men and women who are representing the United States and USA Volleyball with pride, grace and enthusiasm,” Beal said.