Paul Quinn Volleyball Triumphs Over Philander Smith in Four Sets
Little Rock, AR (Mims Gymnasium) – August 30, 2024 — The Paul Quinn Tigers earned a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Philander Smith College on Friday afternoon, improving their season record to 2-3. The Tigers came out on top in a match filled with momentum swings, winning 25-23, 20-25, 25-23, 25-13.
First Set: Paul Quinn Holds Off Late Push
Paul Quinn started strong in the first set, building an early lead. However, Philander Smith mounted a late comeback, cutting the Tigers' lead to 24-23. A clutch kill by JaQuelle Felton sealed the set for Paul Quinn, 25-23. Felton, who finished with 12 kills and a .308 hitting percentage, was a key factor throughout the match.
Second Set: Philander Smith Bounces Back
Philander Smith responded in the second set with a much more efficient attack. Led by Zarea Winn's 14 kills and Ja'Niya Sanders' 13 kills, the Panthers won the set 25-20. Their .345 hitting percentage in this set showcased their offensive firepower, as Paul Quinn struggled to contain their attackers.
Third Set: Tightly Contested Battle
The third set was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading points in a nail-biting stretch. Paul Quinn's A'Niyah Harrison and Carrie Weston led the offensive charge, combining for 21 kills. The Tigers outlasted Philander Smith's attack, winning another close set 25-23.
Fourth Set: Tigers Dominate to Seal the Win
Paul Quinn saved their best for last, overpowering Philander Smith in the fourth set with a .333 hitting percentage. The Tigers' defense was stellar, holding Philander Smith to just eight kills while forcing six errors. Paul Quinn cruised to a decisive 25-13 victory, clinching the match.
Player Highlights
- Paul Quinn: JaQuelle Felton was a standout performer with 12 kills and a .308 hitting percentage. A'Niyah Harrison added 10 kills and two aces, while Carrie Weston contributed 11 kills. Setter Teasia Cooks orchestrated the offense with 29 assists, and Chloe Fields and Ashley Sanchez combined for four service aces.
- Philander Smith: Zarea Winn led all players with 14 kills, while Ja'Niya Sanders posted 13 kills despite 8 attack errors. Setter Essence Wren dished out 39 assists and anchored the Panthers' play with 21 digs.
Match Stats
- Paul Quinn Hitting Percentage: .207
- Philander Smith Hitting Percentage: .203
- Leading Scorers:
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- Paul Quinn: JaQuelle Felton (12 kills), A'Niyah Harrison (10 kills, 2 aces), Carrie Weston (11 kills)
- Philander Smith: Zarea Winn (14 kills), Ja'Niya Sanders (13 kills)
The Tigers return home with renewed confidence after their first road win of the season. They will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for upcoming matches.