New Orleans, La. – Alcorn State University Volleyball (0-5) fought valiantly but ultimately fell in a five-set battle against the University of New Orleans (2-5) at the Human Performance Center. The Lady Braves pushed the Privateers to the limit, but New Orleans edged them out 3-2 (21-25, 25-21, 16-25,15-25, 8-15).
Leading the charge for Alcorn was
Sydney Valentine, who recorded a team-high 16 kills with an impressive .333 hitting percentage, providing a consistent offensive presence throughout the match.
Ramona Pulu was a pivotal all-around contributor, tallying 14 kills and 22 assists.
Harmoni Carswell added five service aces to keep New Orleans on their toes.
The Lady Braves came out strong in the first set, taking it 25-21 behind a balanced attack and sharp defense.
Kasey Watkins contributed six kills, while
Harmoni Carswell led the defensive effort with 20 digs.
Bailey Upshaw added to the offense with seven kills and three block assists, providing key moments at the net.
Despite the early lead, the Privateers responded by taking the second and third sets 25-16 and 25-15, respectively. Alcorn's defensive intensity was highlighted by 10 total team blocks, including four from Watkins, but the team struggled to maintain its offensive rhythm as New Orleans capitalized on strong serving and blocking efforts.
In the fourth set, Alcorn State regained momentum with Valentine and Pulu combining for crucial kills to win the set 25-15 and force a decisive fifth set. However, New Orleans proved too much in the final set, pulling away for a 15-8 win.
With the loss, Alcorn drops to 2-5 on the season, but the Lady Braves will look to bounce back at home against Tougaloo College on Monday, Sept. 16, at 6 p.m. in their home opener at the Davey L. Whitney Complex.
Match Leaders:
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