New Orleans — Blue Mountain Christian University’s volleyball team concluded its road trip Saturday afternoon with a three-set loss to Xavier University (La.) at the Convocation Center. The Gold Nuggets won 25-18, 25-17, 25-22.
Xavier opened the match by taking the first set 25-18. Despite a strong effort from BMCU, which recorded eight kills in the second set, the Gold Nuggets maintained their advantage to win 25-17 and take a 2-0 lead.
In the third set, the Toppers made their strongest push, tallying a match-high 10 kills. They stayed within striking distance until Xavier edged ahead to win 25-22 and close out the match.
Marissa Gerleman led BMCU with eight kills, while Salice Speed added six kills and two service aces. Mattie Hopper contributed three blocks at the net, and Gerleman added two. Sydney Tague led all players with 12 assists, and Brenyn Wilbanks finished with eight.
Defensively, Abbi Williams recorded 14 digs, and Speed added five. The Toppers finished with 27 kills, eight service aces, four blocks and 32 digs. BMCU returns home Friday to face William Carey in SSAC play.
