by FAYETEVILLE, Ark. — In a hard-fought match at the Barnhill Arena, Oklahoma emerged victorious over Cal Poly, winning 3-1. The Sooners relied on a balanced attack and key defensive plays to secure the win.
The first set was a back-and-forth affair, with Oklahoma establishing an early lead. The Sooners capitalized on Cal Poly’s attacking errors and strong offensive performances from Emoni Bush and Alexis Shelton. Oklahoma secured the first set 25-19, despite a late push from the Mustangs.
Cal Poly responded strongly in the second set, taking an early lead. However, Oklahoma fought back, led by key kills from Kamille Gibson and Kenadie Patterson. The Sooners’ defense, highlighted by a timely block from Patterson, helped them tie the set at 6-6. Oklahoma’s momentum continued, with a service ace from Emoni Bush at 21-19, and the Sooners ultimately claimed the set 25-22 to take a 2-0 lead in the match.
The third set was the most competitive of the day, featuring numerous lead changes. The two teams were tied at 22-22, with both sides trading blows. Cal Poly’s Chloe Leluge and Emma Fredrick delivered key kills down the stretch, while the Sooners’ offense was powered by Tekoa Barnes and Kamille Gibson. Despite a late rally from Oklahoma, the Mustangs’ persistence paid off, as they won the set 25-23 to keep the match alive.
In the fourth set, the Sooners came out with a renewed intensity, jumping to a 7-2 lead, including two aces from Avaya Maga. The Sooners’ offensive depth was on display as players like Alexis Shelton and Tekoa Barnes delivered powerful kills to keep Cal Poly at bay. While the Mustangs rallied to close the gap, Oklahoma maintained its composure, with a crucial block by Emoni Bush and KJ Burgess sealing the 24th point. The Sooners went on to win the set 25-20, securing the four-set victory.
