Editor’s note: This is not the most recent UTEP volleyball match.
On Sept. 12, The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners (6–1, 0–0 Conference USA) squared off against the Texas Southern University (TSU) Tigers (1–7, 0–0 Southwestern Athletic Conference) on the second day of the Sun City Classic.
After suffering their first loss of the season to the No. 24-ranked University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins, the Miners looked to bounce back and regain their rhythm.
Set One
UTEP came out for revenge with a 7-3 start, setting the tone early. The Miners quickly seized control, stringing together teamwork that left the Tigers scrambling. Texas Southern tried to mount a comeback, rallying for a few points, but their momentum was halted by a powerful kill from UTEP. The Miners claimed the set 25-17.
Set Two
UTEP didn’t let up, coming out on fire once again. Even an early timeout by Texas Southern couldn’t slow the Miners’ momentum. Capitalizing on every miscue by the Tigers, UTEP ran the court with speed, precision and intensity. Strong attacks at the net and fast defensive plays kept TSU on their heels. The Miners took the set 25-13, putting themselves on the brink of victory.
Set Three
TSU tried to fight back, opening the set with a couple of quick points and showing some early spark, but UTEP regained control, tightening up their defense and firing off a series of attacks. Despite a few pushes from the Tigers, the Miners completed the rest of the set, closing out the match 25-16.
UTEP doubled Texas Southern in nearly every statistical category, leaving little doubt about who controlled the match. From precise serve placement to crisp sets, the Miners dictated the pace of play. UTEP’s crafty off-speed shots and quick defensive reactions showcased an agility and completeness that TSU couldn’t match.
UTEP’s efforts were led by senior right-side hitter Sara Pustahija, who had 11 kills, and junior setter Kalia Kohler who recorded 20 assists. Meanwhile, sophomore outside hitter Landry Braziel notched four blocks while junior libero Fuka Sekita contributed nine digs.
Miner Volleyball finished the Sun City Classic on Sept. 13 before traveling to Tucson where they faced off against the Arizona Wildcats on Sept. 16.
Cameron Mason is a staff reporter for The Prospector and can be reached at [email protected]
