Match Summary

Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) showcased an impressive return to form by sweeping Arkansas–Pine Bluff (UAPB) in straight sets during their last appearance at the Texan Classic, held at Wisdom Gym in Stephenville, Texas. The Bulldogs won the match with scores of 25-19, 25-7, and 25-18, effectively ending a three-match losing streak.

Set Highlights

First Set

LA Tech seized control of the first set with a decisive 6-1 run, aided by powerful offensive plays from Grace Luevanos, Anaya Hairston, and Megan Cooley. Despite a brief response from UAPB, who narrowed the score to 15-14, the Bulldogs closed out the set by scoring 10 of the last 15 points.

Second Set

The Bulldogs dominated the second set from the outset, racing to a 7-1 lead with contributions from Carla Esquer and Zari Gillispie. UAPB was forced to call a timeout, but the momentum was firmly in LA Tech’s favor as Ryan Rusher and Charlize Williams piled on the points during a 12-2 stretch, culminating in a 25-7 victory.

Third Set

UAPB hung on early in the third set, trailing only 11-10. However, LA Tech’s response was swift and lethal, as Rusher, alongside Esquer, propelled the team to an 8-3 run. The Bulldogs ultimately secured a 25-18 set win and completed the match with a clean sweep.

Key Statistics

Overall, LA Tech produced a hitting percentage of .255. Ryan Rusher led the team with a standout performance, recording eight kills alongside seven digs while hitting an impressive .667. Esquer closely followed with seven kills, and setter Emerson Traylor contributed 14 assists during her extended play.

Coach’s Insight

“Today was exactly what we were looking for and exactly what we needed. Played clean, reorganized well, got everyone significant playing time, and a pretty smooth win,” remarked head coach Scott Mattera.

Notable Achievements

• LA Tech maintains an unblemished record against UAPB, leading their all-time series 11-0, having never lost a set.
• The second set’s score of 25-7 ranks as the second-largest margin of victory in program history, reminiscent of a 25-6 win against Grambling State in 2012.
• Both Rusher and Zari Gillispie tied their season highs with Rusher achieving eight kills and Gillispie six blocks.

Next Match

Following this victory, LA Tech is set to face Grambling in its final non-conference match of the season. The match is scheduled for September 23, 2025, with a start time of 6 p.m. CT.

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