BEYOND THE BOX SCORE

Smith, Thornton propel

Team USA into semifinal

Smith, a 6-foot-7 middle blocker, produced nine points, collecting five kills, two blocks and two service aces.

Thornton, a setter, came off the bench to play in four games and triggered the offense in the fifth game, the second time in the tournament his setting helped Team USA prevail in the deciding game.

Former UCI All-American Jayson Jablonsky saw action in two games for the Americans, who play Turkey in today’s semifinals.

Canada will face Italy in the other semifinal.

The championship match is scheduled Saturday at Thammasat University. The third-place match will also be held Saturday.

— From staff reports

BANGKOK, Thailand — Former UC Irvine All-Americans David Smith and Brian Thornton contributed strong play to help the U.S. men’s volleyball team earn a 25-23, 25-22, 22-25, 27-29, 15-8 victory over Ukraine, Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the World University Games.