by (Lawrence, KS) – Haskell Indian Nations University women’s volleyball secured a thrilling comeback victory over Avila University in a five-set volleyball match, winning 3-2. After dropping the second and third sets, Haskell fought back from a late deficit in the fourth to win and force a decisive fifth set. They dominated the final set, pulling away early to seal the match.
Set 1
Haskell started strong, with Kayelani Maiava and Tressa Jim leading the offensive charge. They quickly built a significant lead, capitalizing on a series of Avila errors and a dominant five-point service run by Kayelani Maiava, which included four consecutive aces. While Avila’s Payton Hofer and Megan Davies fought back with a few kills, Haskell’s offense was too much to overcome. A late block by Hailey Kelsey and Tressa Jim sealed the set for Haskell, 25-14.
Set 2
Avila had a much better showing in the second set, fueled by a series of attack and setting errors from Haskell. Emerson Sweet and Sydney Owens stepped up offensively for Avila, helping them establish an early lead. Despite a mid-set surge by Haskell’s Kayelani Maiava, Avila held on. With the score tied at 17-17, a powerful service run from Megan Davies, including two aces, gave Avila the momentum they needed to close out the set 25-21, evening the match at 1-1.
Set 3
Avila carried their momentum into the third set, with Sydney Owens and Megan Davies providing strong serving, including multiple aces. Payton Hofer and Maddie Jones were key on offense, contributing several kills. Avila’s defense was also a factor, with timely blocks from Megan Davies and Sydney Owens, which stifled Haskell’s attack. Haskell struggled with a number of unforced errors, allowing Avila to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the set and win 25-17.
Set 4
Haskell mounted a major comeback in the fourth set. Though Avila initially held the lead, Haskell chipped away, with Tressa Jim and Kayelani Maiava providing crucial kills. After Avila extended their lead to 22-19, Haskell went on an explosive 6-0 run. This run was led by Tressa Jim, who delivered five kills, and capped off by a final kill from Kayelani Maiava to win the set 25-23 and force a decisive fifth set.
Set 5
Haskell dominated the final set from the start. Alaina Dugi’s powerful service run, which included an ace, and a barrage of Avila errors, quickly gave Haskell a commanding 10-1 lead. Haskell maintained control, thanks to crucial kills from Aniah Smith and Tressa Jim. Despite a brief rally by Avila, Haskell’s early lead was insurmountable. An attack error by Payton Hofer sealed the 15-6 victory for Haskell, giving them the 3-2 match win.
Key Performers
Haskell
- Tressa Jim was a dominant force for Haskell’s offense, consistently delivering crucial kills throughout the match, particularly in the fourth set where she led a remarkable comeback.
- Kayelani Maiava was instrumental in Haskell’s success, particularly with her serving. She went on an incredible service run in the first set, including multiple aces, and was a reliable offensive weapon with a high number of kills.
- Alaina Dugi anchored Haskell’s defense, providing a solid foundation from the back row.
