Box Score

The Dallas Baptist Lady Patriots Volleyball Team warmed up for the start of Heartland play with a 3-1 victory at Texas A&M-Commerce, Tuesday evening. DBU hosts Newman University for the conference and home opener, Thursday at 7 p.m.

DBU wins their second consecutive match, now at 2-3 on the young season. A&M-Commerce opened the season with four straight wins, now at 4-1 after dropping their first contest of the season to the visiting Lady Patriots.

The Lady Patriots trailed the entire first set, though the Lions' lead never reached more than four. Facing set point at 24-22, DBU scored a pair of points, forcing extra play and eventually taking the set, 29-27.

Momentum shifted multiple times in the second set, starting with DBU opening at 4-0. A&M-Commerce responded with six straight points, which was answered soon after by a 6-1 Dallas Baptist run. From that point, the Lady Patriots slowly pulled away, finishing with a 25-21 win.

The third set played much tighter than the first two, as the two teams traded leads until a tie at 21. The Lions then scored four of the final five points, winning 25-22, staying alive and cutting the DBU lead to 2-1.

The turning point in the fourth set came with DBU trailing 14-12. The Lady Patriots caught fire, rattling off eight straight points and riding that momentum to a 25-19 win and a 3-1 match victory.

"It was a very offensive game," said Head Coach Cathy Kokel. "We were able to pull ahead because of our blocking and back row defense. Our middles were unstoppable, and it was brought on by great setting."

One of those solid middle blockers was junior Tiara Iwegbu. Fresh off her All-Tournament selection, Iwegbu led three DBU players with double-figure kills, tying for the match-high total of 18.

Carly Hess was close behind with 17 kills, with Erika Papadeas pitching in 11. Tyler Bradsher and Kaycie Bird shared the setting duties, registering 27 and 26 assists, respectively.

Three players also turned in double-digit digs. Cameron Hartson, who Monday was named Heartland Conference Libero of the Week, led the squad with 17 digs, closely followed by Tadam Mergener with 16. Papadeas completed the double-double with 14 digs.

Amy Davault led four Lions with double-figure kills with 18. Jordan Neal turned in 64 assists, with Breanna Snyder adding a match-high 19 digs.  

Following Thursday's contest, the Lady Patriots host Oklahoma Panhandle State University, Saturday at noon.