November 11, 2023
Waxahachie, TX - In an electrifying clash between crosstown rivals, the No. 1 seed Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lady Lions went head-to-head against the No. 2 seed Texas Wesleyan University (TXWES) Rams in the championship game of the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) Volleyball Tournament at the Sheaffer Center in Waxahachie, Texas. The championship showdown lived up to its hype, featuring two top-ranked squads with a history of intense battles, including a split in their regular-season matchups and a face-off in last season's championship game.
Lions ReviewÂ
The Lady Lions got off to a roaring start, initiating the game with a 5-0 scoring run that forced the Rams into an early timeout. Emma Tompkins and Alexandra Bonnett showcased their offensive prowess with powerful kills, setting the tone for an intense matchup. Defensive specialists Lindi Boling and Tessa Glick contributed crucial digs, urging their team to maintain communication and defensive composure. Despite a determined comeback from TXWES, SAGU secured the first set with a 26-24 victory, fueled by the exceptional playmaking of Riley Burcham, Bailee Alexander, and Lilly Hanna.
The second set witnessed the Lady Lions dominating at the net, blocking Ram kill attempts with precision. However, the Rams, led by the league's Most Valuable Player Andrea Malek, showed resilience and took the set 25-15, evening the score.
The third set unfolded as a showcase of skill from both teams. Abby Wells, Karena Tipton, Alexandra Bonnett, and Emma Tompkins executed dynamic plays, but the Rams clinched the set 26-24, taking a 2-1 match series lead.
Facing elimination, the Lady Lions fought fiercely in the fourth set, but the Rams secured a narrow 25-23 victory in a display of high-level volleyball. Despite the defeat, the Lady Lions demonstrated unwavering determination throughout the championship match.
Emma Tompkins, with 14 kills, received All-Tournament Team honors for her outstanding performance, while Bailee Alexander, contributing 10 kills, also earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. Riley Burcham recorded 27 assists, orchestrating the team's offense, and Tessa Glick's exceptional defensive efforts resulted in 31 digs.
Next Up
Looking ahead, the Lady Lions will regroup and prepare for the upcoming NAIA National Tournament Opening Round, determined to bounce back and make a statement on the national stage.
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.
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