December 5, 2024
Sioux City, Iowa – The Nelson University Lady Lions (31-6) showcased their championship mettle Thursday evening, overpowering the Viterbo V-Hawks (26-10) in a thrilling four-set match during Day 2 of the NAIA Women's Volleyball Championship. The victory solidified the Lady Lions' presence as a team to watch as the tournament intensifies.
The match, held at the Tyson Events Center, delivered everything a championship matchup should: energy, resilience, and stellar performances. Nelson came out roaring in the first set, capitalizing on their aggressive play at the net to take it 25-21. However, the V-Hawks responded with a strong performance in the second set, evening the match with a 25-21 win of their own. Refusing to be rattled, the Lady Lions regrouped and clawed their way to narrow wins in the third (25-23) and fourth (25-18) sets, sealing the match in decisive fashion.
The Lady Lions outshone the V-Hawks in several key areas, finishing with 54 kills and nine service aces compared to Viterbo's 41 kills and two aces. Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, tying with 11 blocks each, but Nelson's superior assist (51) and dig (71) totals underscored their all-around dominance.
Mackenzie Smith led the charge for Nelson with 15 kills and four blocks, anchoring the Lady Lions' offense and defense. Bailee Alexander (11 kills) and Caroline Boone (9 kills, 3 blocks) added crucial support. Setter Taylor Cavazos orchestrated the attack with 24 assists and chipped in four digs and two service aces.
On defense, libero Tessa Glick put on a clinic, racking up 17 digs and keeping Nelson composed in pivotal moments. Cassidy Hargesheimer contributed 21 assists, showing excellent synergy with the team's attackers.
After dropping the second set, the Lady Lions came out determined in the third, with Lilly Hanna and Mackenzie Smith leading the charge at the net. The set saw intense rallies and momentum shifts, but Nelson's ability to limit errors and capitalize on Viterbo's mistakes turned the tide in their favor.
In the fourth set, Nelson's relentless serving, led by Cavazos and Madison Petten, put the V-Hawks on their heels. Boone and Alexander sealed the match with powerful kills down the stretch, propelling the Lady Lions to victory.
What's Next?
With this crucial win, the Lady Lions remain firmly in contention for advancement in the NAIA Women's Volleyball Championship. As pool play progresses the Lady Lions await their fate.
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.
