Orangeburg, S.C. — The Claflin University volleyball team made a thrilling debut in their season/home opener, sweeping the Paine College Lady Lions with a decisive 3-0 victory at Tullis Arena.
The Lady Panthers controlled the match from the opening serve, earning a 25-13 win in the first set and closing out the match with 25-15 and 25-21 wins in the second and third sets. Their balanced attack, aggressive serving, and strong defense ensured their control throughout the match.
Zaniya Harris led the offensive attack with 12 kills and added four service aces to pace Claflin.
Aryanna Connell followed with nine kills and contributed two blocks, while
Monica Burns finished with three kills and two blocks.
Nadia Embry led the team with 13 assists, while
Joi Tinsley added 12 assists and two service aces. The duo helped keep Claflin's offense moving and provided opportunities for multiple hitters throughout the match.
Defensively,
Nylah Holmes recorded a team-high six digs.
Abigail Watts finished with three digs and an ace, while
Jadah Rasool added two digs. Claflin's serving game proved to be another difference-maker. The Lady Panthers finished with seven total aces, led by Harris' four. Tinsley contributed two, while Watts added one.
After taking the first two sets comfortably, Claflin faced its closest challenge of the night in the third. The Lady Lions stayed within striking distance, but the Lady Panthers remained composed and finished the match with a 25-21 victory.
The straight-set win gives Claflin an early boost as the team prepares to hit the road for its first tournament weekend of the season.
Up Next:
The Lady Panthers will travel to Albany, Georgia, Sept. 4-5 for the Black Excellence Volleyball Showcase. Claflin is scheduled to face Allen University, Savannah State University, Fort Valley State University, and Benedict College during the two-day event.
Stay Connected
For complete coverage of Claflin Athletics, follow us on social media at @claflin_athletics (Instagram) or Claflin University-Athletics (Facebook), or visit the official home of the Panthers at www.athletics.claflins.edu.
About Claflin University Athletics
Claflin University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II institution that sponsors 13 intercollegiate sports. The university's athletic program includes volleyball; women's flag football; men's and women's cross country; men's and women's basketball; softball; men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field; and baseball. Claflin's teams compete primarily in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), while the baseball program competes in the Peach Belt Conference.
