**San Jose State to Face Colorado State in Controversy-Laden Volleyball Final**

San Jose State University’s women’s volleyball team is set to compete against Colorado State in the Mountain West Conference tournament final this Saturday. This pivotal match comes amidst a backdrop of legal battles and disputes revolving around the participation of an alleged transgender player on the San Jose State team.

Over the past several months, multiple teams within the Mountain West Conference, and one other, have chosen to forfeit their matches against San Jose State, citing concerns related to the player’s gender. These cancellations have significantly impacted San Jose State's journey to the tournament final, advancing partly due to these forfeits. Although the university and the player have not publicly addressed the gender claims, the controversy has sparked a federal lawsuit. Filed earlier this month by athletes from various schools, including San Jose State’s senior setter and co-captain Brooke Slusser, the lawsuit seeks to prevent the player from participating in the championship games.

Colorado State, advancing after defeating San Diego State on Friday, has decided to compete in the final despite the ongoing controversy. Colorado State's coach, Emily Kohan, confirmed the decision to The Associated Press. On the other hand, Boise State’s withdrawal from their semifinal match against San Jose State earlier this week underscored the ongoing tensions. Boise State officials expressed disappointment over not being able to compete while advocating for a more inclusive and fair system for all athletes.

As San Jose State prepares for the final match in Las Vegas, the team has responded to the controversy by reaffirming their commitment to the sport and their student-athletes. In a statement, the university expressed gratitude for those engaging in civil discourse and extended support to all their students, emphasizing unity during the holiday weekend.

The legal landscape surrounding this issue includes a ruling from US Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews, who denied a request for an emergency order to bar the player from participating. The judge indicated that the plaintiffs had not demonstrated the need for immediate court intervention, noting that most of the alleged harm had already occurred.

The Mountain West Conference adheres to NCAA regulations regarding transgender athletes, and San Jose State has declared its full compliance with these rules. Despite the controversy, the San Jose State volleyball team is focused on competing for the championship, undeterred by the heightened interest and legal challenges surrounding their journey this season.