Setter Michael Wright made the most of his first start at the Pan American Cup.
Wright guided the offense to a .525 attack percentage as the United States swept Trinidad and Tobago 25-13, 25-17, 25-14 on Wednesday in Mexico to remain undefeated in pool-play.
The United States did not commit more than two attack errors in any game and finished the match with five errors – 16 fewer errors than Trinidad and Tobago. The former Ohio State setter also helped the United States hit more than .500 in each of the final two games en route to securing the sweep and a berth to the quarterfinals.
Three U.S. players ended with more than five kills against Trinidad and Tobago.
Former Ohio State outside attacker Jacob Pasteur led all players with 10 kills on a .400 attack percentage, including five kills in the second game. Former CSUN pin-hitter Kyle Hobus added nine kills and hit .533, while USC outside attacker Sterling Foley had six kills on a .625 attack percentage.
The United States limited Trinidad and Tobago to a negative-.065 attack percentage. Trinidad and Tobago hit in the negative in two of three games and committed 11 attack errors in the first game.
UCLA middle attacker Micah Wong Diallo and former UCLA middle Cameron Thorne each had a match-high three blocks.
Former Indiana Tech outside attacker Daynte Stewart in the loss led Trinidad and Tobago with six kills.
The United States with this victory remains in first place entering its pool-play finale against second-place Canada. The winner of the finale will win the pool title and earn a bye to the semifinals.