On October 6, 2023, the Sul Ross State University volleyball team delivered a stellar performance against the Concordia University (Texas) Tornados, securing a win in four sets at the Concordia Fieldhouse.
Daniella Garcia was the standout player for the Lobos, racking up an impressive 16 kills. The match commenced with Concordia seizing the initial advantage in the first set. However, Loren Garcia of Sul Ross State soon leveled the playing field with two consecutive service aces. Concordia managed to reclaim the momentum and wrapped up the opening set 25-19 in their favor.
The drama unfolded in the second set, marked by five changes in the lead. It was Sul Ross State’s Cassandra Espinoza who shone with two pivotal kills during a 4-0 run, placing the Lobos in the lead. Even though Concordia retaliated with a 4-0 run of their own, the Lobos emerged victorious in the set with a score of 25-21.
In the third set, the Lobos took the reins early on. With significant contributions in the form of kills from both Sarah Chavez and Jayci Richters, they clinched the set 25-19.
The climax in the final set saw the Lobos sustain their momentum. Spearheaded by a kill from Daniella Garcia and a service ace by Caitlyn Pena, they established a commanding lead. Despite a 5-0 run by Concordia in an attempt to close the gap, the Lobos stood firm. The game culminated with a decisive 3-0 run from the Lobos, punctuated by kills from Daniella Garcia and Loren Garcia.
From a statistical viewpoint, Daniella Garcia continued her impressive streak, marking her sixth match of the season with 11 or more kills, amassing a team-best 134 kills overall. Other noteworthy performances came from Cassandra Espinoza with 12 kills and 12 digs, Loren Garcia delivering eight kills and three service aces, and Brylee Sweeten charting 21 assists, three service aces, and six digs. Tatyana Colon also made her mark with 12 digs, three assists, and two service aces, leading the team in service aces with 17 and digs with 184.
Post this triumph, the records now stand at Sul Ross State (5-9) and Concordia (1-13).
