October 24, 2023

Waxahachie, TX - The Sheaffer Center in Waxahachie, Texas, was ablaze with energy as the No. 24 Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lady Lions clashed with their cross-town rivals, the No. 14 Texas Wesleyan University (TXWES) Rams. This much-anticipated Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) rematch lived up to the hype, and the fans were treated to an exhilarating display of volleyball talent. The Lady Lions emerged victorious, besting the Rams in a five-set thriller: 25-17, 26-24, 25-18, 25-21, and 15-13.

Lions Review
The opening set was an electrifying display of talent, with Lady Lion defensive specialist Lindi Boling stealing the show. Her acrobatic saves and flawless assists left the crowd in awe. Boling's agile movement ability was showcased to perfection as she not only defended but also contributed to the scoreboard with a dazzling dig. The Lady Lions dominated the set, sealing it with a score of 25-17.

In the second set, both teams threw haymakers at each other, with the Rams narrowly edging out a 26-24 win. TXWES's formidable blocking at the net helped them level the match series.

The next two sets witnessed high-level SAC volleyball, with players from both teams delivering exceptional performances. Kya Bock's spectacular serves and Abby Wells' powerful swings lit up the court. Bailee Alexander and Alexandra Bonnett unleashed smashing kills, keeping the intensity at its peak. 

However, in the final set, it was the poise and leadership of Riley Burcham and Emma Tompkins that made the difference. As middle hitter Lilly Hanna delivered the final, thunderous point, the Sheaffer Center erupted in celebration.
 

Key Stats
TXWES held the advantage in blocks with 19 total compared to the Lady Lions' six. However, the Lady Lions showcased their teamwork with 56 assists, outperforming the Rams' 41 assists. The stunning passing by the Lady Lions led to 61 kills compared to Texas Wesleyan's 44.

Emma Tompkins led the game with 15 kills, followed by 12 kills from Alexandra Bonnett. Lilly Hanna and Bailee Alexander both added 11 kills to the tally. The reigning SAC Setter of the Week, Riley Burcham, recorded a game-high 30 assists, along with an impressive 24 digs. Tessa Glick displayed her incredible defensive skills with 38 digs.
 

Next Up
The SAGU Lady Lions are now gearing up for their next challenge. On October 28th at 1:00 PM, they will face off against Southwestern Christian University in another thrilling SAC showdown. The Sheaffer Center in Waxahachie, TX, will once again be the epicenter of action, promising yet another unforgettable match. BUY TICKETS HERE: https://vivenu.com/seller/southwestern-assemblies-of-god-university-z6n9

As a leading Christian university, SAGU educates and prepares individuals who want to serve Christ and others. SAGU helps students discover and develop their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered, learning community. We believe in affordable tuition, made possible in part through the financial support of donors who embrace the mission of SAGU and the importance of affordable, accredited programs to train Christians for leadership in ministry, business, education, and service. Most majors are available in-person in Waxahachie, TX, and online through a wide range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.