Delaware State Defeats Howard in MEAC Volleyball Championship

Lady Hornets Claim Title in Thrilling Five-Set Match

DOVER, Del. (November 24, 2024) – The Delaware State University (DSU) volleyball team captured the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Championship in dramatic fashion Sunday night, defeating Howard University 3-2 (24-26, 25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 7-15) in front of an electric home crowd at Memorial Hall.

This hard-fought victory marked DSU’s second MEAC title in three seasons, showcasing their depth and determination against a resilient Howard squad.

Game Recap

The title match was an intense back-and-forth affair, with neither team willing to back down.

Set 1: The Lady Hornets edged out a 26-24 win after a nail-biting opener, setting the stage for the evening’s drama.

Set 2: Howard roared back with a 25-22 triumph, overcoming an early deficit with precise attacks and crucial defensive stops.

Set 3: Delaware State capitalized on Howard’s hitting errors to regain control, claiming the third frame 25-20.

Set 4: Refusing to quit, the Bison produced a blistering .405 hitting percentage in the fourth set, forcing a decisive fifth.

Set 5: DSU dominated the final frame, hitting a remarkable .450 as they sealed the championship with a 15-7 victory, sparking celebrations on their home court.

Game Leaders

Delaware State University (DSU):

• Kills: Valeria Otero (18), Gerren Tomlin (17), Aaliyah Mitchell (14)
• Aces: Morgan Allen (2), Valeria Otero (1), Naz Tuncay (1)
• Blocks: Aaliyah Mitchell (6), Alondra Maldonado (4), Hannah Sanders (4)
• Assists: Naz Tuncay (32), Paige Ahakuelo (31), Morgan Allen (4)
• Digs: Morgan Allen (22), Gerren Tomlin (20), Valeria Otero (12)

Howard University (HOW):

• Kills: Rya McKinnon (18), Cimone Woodard (16), Dami Awojobi (16)
• Aces: Halie McGinest (2), Leah Reeves (1)
• Blocks: Aziah Buckner (2), Amanda Ifeanyichukwu (2), Cimone Woodard (1)
• Assists: Leah Reeves (61), Claire Simpson (4)
• Digs: Claire Simpson (21), Dami Awojobi (14), Aziah Buckner (10)

Championship Highlights

DSU’s balanced attack proved decisive, with Valeria Otero and Gerren Tomlin leading the offensive charge while Morgan Allen anchored the defense with a match-high 22 digs. Freshman setter Naz Tuncay orchestrated the attack with 32 assists, complemented by Paige Ahakuelo’s 31.

Howard’s stars shined in defeat, with Rya McKinnon (18 kills) and Cimone Woodard (16 kills) delivering standout performances. Setter Leah Reeves had an incredible 61 assists, keeping the Bison’s offense running smoothly throughout the match.

Looking Ahead

Delaware State (17-13) will now turn their attention to the NCAA Tournament, where they aim to continue their momentum against the nation’s best teams. Meanwhile, Howard’s strong showing throughout the season solidifies their position as a perennial MEAC contender, promising more battles ahead.

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