Team USA’s 2025 Volleyball Nations League run came to a heartbreaking end against defending champions Italy. The team that kicked off the preliminary round met on the court again in the quarterfinals, and the result was the same: a 3-0 sweep in favor of Italy. Madisen Skinner, who gave a 32-point performance in her VNL debut, struggled after the first set but didn’t give up.

Although the rest of the squad also gave it their best shot and even improved from their first encounter with Italy, the defending champions were just too good. Thankfully, despite the heartbreaking loss, the 24-year-old found something to cheer for. That’s because shortly after their loss to No. 1 Italy, the volleyball star’s footballer boyfriend starred in the LA Rams’ surprise merch drop.

“Royal & Sol Summer Collection. Inspired by the bold culture of booster clubs, created for Rams fans everywhere,” the Los Angeles Rams posted on social media. What’s more? The Rams’ 24-year-old wide receiver Jordan Whittington turned model for the photoshoot. Needless to say, Madisen Skinner was absolutely hyped. “Spectacular. Gimme 14 of ’em,” she wrote on her Instagram story while sharing the post.

The best part is that Madi Skinner won’t have to wait too long to buy all 14 items. The Rams also added when fans can get their hands on the summer collection. “Available this Friday, July 25, online and in person exclusively at Rams Training Camp,” they added to the post featuring Whittington and Rams’ Fan of the Year, Gary Young. However, the outside/opposite hitter didn’t stop at one post.

“Yes, so perfect. I love IT!” Madisen Skinner shared, praising the design of the all-black jacket with the Rams’ logo and “Royal & Sol Booster Club” printed on the back. The snapshot also featured Gary Young wearing another all back hoodie with a different logo of the Rams and collection. However, this wasn’t the only good thing post the 24-year-old’s VNL exit.

Redemption is around the corner for Madisen Skinner

Team USA’s VNL quarterfinal loss to Italy was a tough one. Then again, the team did take the loss in their stride, as coach Erik Sullivan was proud of the progress they had made. Their three-set 25-22, 25-21, 28-26 defeat was a closer affair than Italy beating them 25-13, 25-13, 30-28 in the opening 2025 VNL match. After all, the VNL squad was primarily a squad of young talents.

What’s more? Madisen Skinner and Co. will soon get another chance to prove their mettle against the best of the best at the 2025 World Championships in August. Madi Skinner’s sister, Olympic gold medalist Avery Skinner, expressed her belief in the squad. “I am proud of us for sticking with it until the end,” said the Olympian who shared the VNL court with her sister.

“We are super young, and each week it has been building on what we did the week before. The summer is long, and we have another tournament, so we are going to work even more for that next tournament,” said Avery Skinner. Coach Sullivan also expressed similar confidence in the team’s ability to improve, and Madisen Skinner has no shortage of talent.

And Madi Skinner isn’t alone in her quest for volleyball greatness. Besides her Olympian sister, the former University of Texas star has an equally supportive boyfriend. Just as she was stoked to see Whittington star in the Rams photoshoot, he also celebrates the volleyball star. His least public gesture came on Skinner’s birthday with a message on social media. So, it may be safe to assume that Skinner will make a comeback.