November 12, 2024

Waxahachie, TX – The Nelson University Lady Lions roared through the opening round of the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) Tournament, dismantling the University of Science and Arts (USAO) in a commanding straight-set victory (25-6, 25-17, 25-9). Their powerhouse performance on Tuesday night at the Sheaffer Center left no doubt about their readiness for the road ahead as they now set their sights on the SAC semifinals in Fort Worth, Texas.

The Lady Lions, boasting an impressive 28-4 overall record and an undefeated 22-0 SAC season, put their top-seeded skills on display. With a well-rounded offensive and defensive showcase, Nelson University overwhelmed USAO from the first serve, holding their opponents to a negative hitting percentage (-.047) while achieving a remarkable .325 attack percentage.

In the first set, the Lady Lions established their dominance early, allowing USAO only six points and hitting .167. Leading the offensive charge, Lilly Hanna recorded seven kills with an impressive .462 hitting percentage, while Alexandra Bonnett and Bailee Alexander contributed seven and six kills, respectively, pushing the Lady Lions to an unassailable lead.

The second set saw a slight resurgence from USAO, but the Lady Lions maintained control, with a potent .345 hitting percentage that kept their opponents on the defensive. Setter Taylor Cavazos masterfully orchestrated the offense, dishing out 14 assists, while Cassidy Hargesheimer added 12 assists of her own.

By the third set, Nelson University's defense shined as they blocked any USAO momentum. The Lady Lions dominated the net with eight blocks, led by Lilly Hanna's four solo blocks. Defensively, Tessa Glick was a force with 10 digs, keeping the ball in play and frustrating USAO's efforts.

As the match concluded with a final set score of 25-9, the Lady Lions tallied 50 total points compared to USAO's 22, highlighting their commanding control in every aspect of the game. With nine service aces – including three from Lindi Boling – the Lady Lions served up more than just points, showcasing their ability to capitalize on USAO's weaknesses.
 

Next Stop?  
The Lady Lions advance to the SAC Tournament Semifinals, where they will face formidable opponent OCU at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Worth, Texas, on Friday, November 15, 4 PM. 

Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-SAGU.