FORT WORTH, TX – Texas Wesleyan University claimed the SAC Volleyball Tournament Championship on Saturday, defeating Nelson in straight sets (26-24, 25-21, 25-19) at the Sid Richardson Center.
The Rams overcame a strong challenge from Nelson in the opening set. Lyric Biggiers and Grace Pavelka combined for crucial kills, while Taylor Glendening delivered a set-clinching service ace to secure the 26-24 victory. Despite Nelson's efforts, led by Samantha Moore and Lilly Hanna, Texas Wesleyan they were capitalized on timely blocks by Hanna Rubis to maintain their edge.
In the second set, Texas Wesleyan's offense surged, hitting .343 as a team. Biggiers and Makenna Gantt led the attack, and Ruby O'Brien distributed 12 assists. Nelson fought hard, with Taylor Cavazos tallying 15 assists and Tessa Glick recording a match-high 21 digs. However, the Rams' balanced play and strategic adjustments proved decisive in the 25-21 set victory.
The final set saw Texas Wesleyan close the match commandingly, hitting .300 and capitalizing on nine Nelson errors. Biggiers led all players with 11 kills, while Rubis anchored the defense with six blocks. Nelson's offense, led by Moore and Hanna, struggled to find consistency against the Rams' solid defense, and Pavelka's final kill sealed the 25-19 win.
Texas Wesleyan edged Nelson statistically in key areas, including hitting percentage (.228 to .130), aces (2 to 3), and blocks (6 to 2). The Rams' standout players included Emily Lewis, who contributed 12 digs and an ace, and Biggiers, who tallied a match-high 11 kills.
The Rams will also await their seeding in the NAIA National Tournament, with the selection show scheduled for Nov. 18 at noon.