PITTSBURG, Kan. – SWOSU Volleyball opened play at the Gorilla Classic on Wednesday with a three-set loss to Missouri Southern, falling 25-14, 25-23, 25-12.
After Missouri Southern controlled the opening set, SWOSU responded with its best effort of the match in the second. The Bulldogs battled back from an early deficit and pulled within one late before the Lions held on for a 25-23 win.
Missouri Southern regained control in the third, using a seven-point run to create separation before closing out the sweep with a 25-12 victory.
Katja Blanchat finished with six kills and hit a team-best .308 for SWOSU. Sydnee Winfrey and Layla Collins added six kills apiece, while Mackenzie Sims totaled 22 assists. Jada Permenter anchored the back row with a match-high 16 digs.
Missouri Southern posted season highs with a .296 hitting percentage and 10 total blocks while holding a 38-29 advantage in kills. SWOSU finished the match hitting .054.
The Bulldogs continue play at the Gorilla Classic on Thursday with two matches. SWOSU will face Truman State at 11:30 a.m. before taking on tournament host Pittsburg State at 7 p.m.
