Boise State University’s women’s volleyball team began its Mountain West Conference tournament with a win Wednesday.

But after defeating Utah State University, Boise State said it would forfeit its semifinal match, scheduled for Friday. Boise State was slated to play San José State University — which reportedly has a transgender athlete on its roster.

This marks Boise State’s third forfeit; the Broncos refused to play two regular-season matches with San José State.

But unlike the two previous forfeits — which were announced with terse statements — Boise State alluded to the reasons behind Wednesday night’s decision.

“The decision to not continue to play in the 2024 Mountain West Volleyball Championship tournament was not an easy one,” the statement read. “Our team overcame forfeitures to earn a spot in the tournament field and fought for the win over Utah State in the first round on Wednesday. They should not have to forgo this opportunity while waiting for a more thoughtful and better system that serves all athletes.”

Boise State was the first of four Mountain West schools to forfeit matches with San José State, elevating a national debate over transgender athletes. As Idaho Education News has previously reported, Boise State university leaders made the decision to forfeit the first San José State match — amidst lobbying from national groups who oppose allowing transgender athletes to play in women’s sports.

Twelve plaintiffs, including two Boise State players, went to federal court this month, seeking to have the San José State player in question declared ineligible for the conference tournament. The suit was unsuccessful.