Lions Edge Drovers in Conference-Opener

CHICKASHA, Okla. – Thursday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (4-6, 0-1 SAC) opened conference-play with a three-set loss against Nelson University (5-4, 1-0 SAC). Although the Drovers lost in three sets, they kept the score very tight in all three sets and never lost by more than six points.

Nelson edged the Drovers in the first set by a score of 25-19. USAO held a brief lead in the second set, but Nelson managed to rally and claimed a 25-22 win. The Drovers once again battled in the third set but were narrowly defeated 25-21 to close out the match.

As a team, the Drover offense compiled a respectable .202 attack percentage with 31 kills, while the Lions recorded a .307 attack percentage and 52 kills. USAO's setters dished out a total of 30 assists, meanwhile the defense produced 39 digs and five total blocks. Nelson produced 50 assists, 50 digs, and two total blocks. 

The USAO offense was led by Jaliyah Cox with 13 kills on an impressive .357 attack percentage. Victoria Southerland added seven kills. 

Bailey Makahununiu distributed a team-high of 16 assists, followed by Josie Joyce with nine. Brynlee Birney concluded with a team-high of 17 digs to anchor the Drover defense. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will return to action tomorrow night (Sept. 6) as they host Texas Wesleyan University. First serve is scheduled for 6:00 PM CT inside Drover Fieldhouse.

Stay up to date on all Science & Arts Athletics news by following us on our media platforms!

Athletics Website: www.usaoathletics.com

Live-stream: www.sacsportsnetwork.com/usao/

YouTube: Drover Athletics

Twitter/X: @DroverAthletics

Facebook: @DroverAthletics

Instagram: @drover_athletics

GIPHY: www.giphy.com/USAODrovers