COMMERCE – For the first time in five years, the East Texas A&M University volleyball team is 1-0 on the season, having won in straight sets to begin the Lion Invitational on Friday evening against Texas Southern on the Hunt Regional Healthcare Court in the Field House.
This victory marks the Lions' first season opener win since the spring season of 2021, and their first home opener win since that same season. East Texas A&M's attack was highlighted by a .458 hitting percentage in the final set.
The first set opened with the Lions taking the lead on a kill by
Ariana Brown (Conroe). A series of consecutive service aces by
Sediong Scott (Houston – Elsik) helped East Texas A&M close the gap when trailing and edge ahead. Ultimately, a final kill by Brown, assisted by
Haley Mullaney (Decatur), concluded the set at 25-20 in favor of the Lions.
The Lions dominated the second set against the Tigers, beginning with a 4-0 scoring run that included a kill by Brown. With
Jill Vinal (A&M-Consolidated) contributing several assists, the Lions extended their lead to 9-1, supported by kills from
Sabine Wenzel (Melrose, Mass.) and Brown. Despite a brief rally from the Tigers, the set concluded at 25-16, with the final point coming from a Tigers service error.
East Texas A&M dominated the third set against the Tigers, quickly establishing control with a series of kills and blocks. Scott and Mullaney contributed early kills, while Wenzel and Brown added to the offensive effort, extending the lead to 11-4. A notable service run by
Semaj Cox (Missouri City – Elkins), including three aces, propelled the Lions to a commanding 22-8 advantage. The set concluded with a kill from Mullaney and an attack error by the Tigers, sealing the set at 25-9.
This decisive performance secured the match for the Lions, making them 2-0 all-time against Texas Southern, having won all six sets in their matchups.
Brown led the attack for East Texas A&M with 14 kills and added 10 digs. Mullaney contributed significantly with 22 assists and five kills. Scott made an impact by recording four aces and two total blocks. Wenzel showcased her efficiency, finishing with eight kills on 14 attempts with a .500 hitting percentage. Brown, Scott, and Wenzel made their Lion debuts.
POST MATCH INTERVIEW
UP NEXT
The Lions face Southern Illinois on Saturday at 4 p.m. in the Field House to continue the Lion Invitational. Tickets can be purchased at
LionAthletics.com/tickets.
-ETAMU-
