November 9, 2024
The Nelson University Lady Lions showcased their unyielding drive over a two-day Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) road trip, securing victories over Southwestern Christian University and Oklahoma City University in commanding fashion. This dynamic display further cements their dominance in the SAC as they march undefeated through conference play.
Nelson vs. Southwestern Christian University
The Lady Lions began their road campaign with an impressive 3-0 sweep over Southwestern Christian University in Bethany, Oklahoma. Demonstrating surgical precision, Nelson set the tone early with a 25-16 victory in the opening set, highlighted by Mackenzie Smith's relentless attack, which earned her 12 kills throughout the match. The second set continued in similar fashion, as the Lady Lions' offense ramped up, finishing with a resounding 25-18 score. With Taylor Cavazos' strategic aces and Cassidy Hargesheimer's consistent assists, Nelson closed the match strong in the third set, 25-15, bolstered by a .314 hitting percentage.
Defensively, Tessa Glick anchored the back line with 17 crucial digs, while Samantha Moore added a robust presence at the net with timely blocks. The Lady Lions' unyielding defense and sharp offense held Southwestern Christian to a mere .143 team hitting percentage, illustrating their overwhelming court control.
Nelson vs. Oklahoma City University
The following day in Oklahoma City, Nelson faced off against Oklahoma City University in a match filled with thrilling rallies and intense moments. The Lady Lions once again emerged victorious with a 3-1 triumph (25-8, 25-20, 16-25, 27-25), clinching their 22nd SAC win.
Nelson opened the match with a stunning 25-8 first set, fueled by Alexandra Bonnett's offensive onslaught, which yielded 13 kills, supported by Bailee Alexander's 11 kills and Mackenzie Smith's 10. Despite a resilient effort from Oklahoma City in the second set, Nelson maintained their composure, edging out a 25-20 win. The third set saw Oklahoma City push back fiercely, claiming it 25-16 and momentarily halting the Lady Lions' momentum. Yet, in the fourth set, Nelson rallied from a 15-10 deficit, showcasing their tenacity and strategic adjustments to secure a nail-biting 27-25 victory.
Cassidy Hargesheimer was pivotal in orchestrating the offense, amassing 26 assists, while Tessa Glick and Lindi Boling fortified the defensive line with 18 and 13 digs, respectively. The team's resilience and ability to adapt mid-match proved essential, especially when facing a formidable opponent like Oklahoma City University.
Next Up?
With these triumphant road wins, the Lady Lions are set to continue their SAC journey on Tuesday, November 12th, as they face USAO in the Sooner Athletic Tournament Opening Round at 6 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.
