November 10, 2023 

Waxahachie, TX - The Sheaffer Center witnessed an unforgettable clash as the Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lady Lions triumphed over the Oklahoma City University (OCU) Stars in a heart-pounding semifinal showdown of the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) Volleyball Tournament. The Lady Lions showcased resilience and determination, claiming victory in a thrilling five-set battle: 25-21, 25-20, 25-15, 28-26, and 15-5.

Lions Review
The contest began with a slow start for the Lady Lions, conceding the first set 25-21 due to a struggle in defensive resistance against OCU's powerful 14 opening set kills. Freshman trio Cassidy Hargesheimer, Bailee Alexander, and Mackenzie Smith ignited the offensive spark, setting the stage for a spectacular comeback.

In the second set, Emma Tompkins, a First Team All-Conference member, demonstrated her prowess with a series of red-hot kills, attempting to rally the Lady Lions. However, miscommunication led to errors, resulting in a 25-20 second set loss.

Facing elimination in the third set, the Lady Lions unleashed a display of stellar passing and formidable defensive plays at the nets, securing a convincing 25-15 victory. Karena Tipton, Lilly Hanna, and Abby Wells emerged as key contributors, leaving fans awestruck by the talent and drama unfolding in the SAC Volleyball semifinals.

The intensity escalated in the fourth set as the Lady Lions, teetering on the brink of elimination, summoned maximum effort. Tessa Glick and the defensive specialists showcased remarkable dives to prevent digs from touching the ground. A controversial out call added to the tension, allowing the Stars to tie the game 24-24. The Lady Lions, undeterred, clinched a 28-26 victory in extra points, forcing a fifth and deciding set.

With the crowd on the edge of their seats, the Lady Lions asserted their dominance in the fifth set, securing a decisive 15-5 win. The victory propels them into the Sooner Athletic Conference Women's Volleyball Championship, where they aim to capture their second consecutive conference tournament title.

The Sheaffer Center bore witness to a match that will be etched in its history, as the SAGU Lady Lions demonstrated grit, skill, and determination on their path to potential glory in the 2023 SAC Volleyball Tournament. BUY TICKETS HERE: https://vivenu.com/event/volleyball-tournament-final-tbd-vs-tbd-qg3d86

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.