KENOSHA, Wis. — Bemidji State University (1-4, 0-0 NSIC) swept Roosevelt University (1-4, 0-0 GLIAC) in straight sets, 25-18, 25-16, 25-23, at De Simone Arena on Thursday, highlighted by the Beavers' attack percentage of .346.
The first set began with a back-and-forth exchange of points, culminating in a key moment when
Ava Athman delivered a crucial kill at 8-4 to halt an early deficit. Bemidji State found momentum midway through, with
Katrina Thompson's setting precision feeding
Grace Hoffard for multiple kills, contributing to a 5-0 run that tied the score at 13-13. The decisive stretch came as
Nevaeh Carlson and Hoffard combined for a block at 23-18, followed by consecutive aces from Athman to clinch the set 25-18.
The second set opened with a service ace by
Jada Wlodarczyk, setting the tone for a strong start. The Beavers then capitalized on a series of errors by Roosevelt, with
Madison Tripp and
Karley Dunham leading defensive efforts that contributed to a 5-0 scoring run, bringing the score to 8-3.
Lily Riese made significant contributions with multiple kills, including a crucial one at 8-3, helping to extend the lead. Despite some back-and-forth action, the Beavers maintained momentum, closing the set with a 25-16 victory on a decisive kill by Hoffard from Tripp.
The third set began with an early exchange of points, but the Lakers pulled ahead with a 4-0 run, culminating in a kill by Isabel Grana to lead 5-1. Bemidji State responded with notable contributions from Tripp and Athman, who helped close the gap to 7-6. As the set progressed, Bemidji State found momentum, highlighted by a crucial block from Dunham and
Katie Brandl to tie the score at 21-21. Ultimately, Bemidji State capitalized on a service ace from Dunham at a critical moment, securing the set with a narrow 25-23 victory.
Hoffard posted eight kills with a .583 hitting percentage and contributed two block assists for the Beavers. Athman tallied eight kills, three service aces, and finished with seven digs, leading the team in scoring with 12.5 points. Tripp recorded three kills on three attempts, resulting in a 1.000 hitting percentage, while adding 14 assists and five digs. Dunham stood out defensively with five total blocks, including one solo block, during the match.
Bemidji State holds a 1-4 overall record. The Lakers match with a similar 1-4 overall record.
Looking ahead, the Beavers will face Missouri S&T at De Simone Arena in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on September 12. The match is set for 9 a.m. They'll then take on McKendree University at 2 p.m.
For more information on the Bemidji State Volleyball program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X (@BSUBeaversVB), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and like them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversVB).
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey membership in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).