SIUE Volleyball Triumphs Over Tennessee State in Conference Opener
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) Cougars showcased a commanding performance against Tennessee State University (TSU) in their first game of conference play, clinching a decisive victory with set scores of 25-19, 25-15, and 15-13.
Current Season Performance
This win elevates SIUE’s overall record to 6-6, while they now hold a 1-0 standing in Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) play. For TSU, the match marked a continuation of struggles this season, bringing their record to 1-12 with a 0-1 start in conference play.
Key Players’ Contributions
Sophie Robinson emerged as a standout player for the Cougars, delivering a powerful offensive effort with 10 kills and an impressive hitting percentage of .474. Both Kyndia Smith and Maddie Determan matched this success, each boasting a hitting percentage of .500 after recording five or more kills.
On the defensive and setup side, Ally Hughes was instrumental, providing 18 assists, while Paige Bernstein closely followed with 14 assists. Additionally, Grace Nicols added to SIUE’s dominance by contributing four service aces.
Team Performance Stats
The Cougars’ overall team statistics highlight their strong performance, achieving a season-high total of 11 service aces. Their offensive output included:
- 45 kills
- 37 assists
- 39 digs
- 4 blocks
Conversely, TSU recorded 31 kills, contributing only one service ace and lacking any blocks. Their stats included 27 assists and 35 digs.
Looking Ahead
The Cougars will face off against TSU again on September 27, with the first serve set for 2 p.m. This rematch provides a quick opportunity for both teams to adjust and compete once more.
