FAYETTEVILLE, NC -- In an electrifying match at Felton J Capel Arena, the Fayetteville State volleyball team secured a commanding 3-0 victory over the Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls, with set scores of 25-23, 25-15, and 25-9. This win boosted the Broncos' overall record to 14-4, 10-4 in the CIAA and 7-3 in the division, while the Golden Bulls dropped to 6-13 overall, 3-12 in the conference and 1-8 in the division.
The match began with the Broncos trailing 12-6 in the first set. Coach Chynna Hunt rallied her team with a powerful message: "If we stay calm, they stay calm. We let them know that we are alright. We have to put away the first and make a statement and end those rallies as quick as possible." This pep talk ignited a fierce comeback, with Fayetteville State eventually clinching the set 25-23 after a series of intense rallies and lead changes.
Symone Morris and Jourdan Page were instrumental in the Broncos' triumph, each recording impressive double-doubles. Morris tallied 12 kills and 14 digs, while Page led the team with 15 kills and 15 digs. Chiara Vittoni contributed significantly with eight kills and a match-high 20 assists, and Jasmine Culp added 10 digs and four aces, dominating the defensive end alongside Milana Cvetkovski's three blocks.
In the second set, the Broncos maintained their momentum, taking an early lead and never looking back. They dominated the set 25-15, showcasing their offensive prowess with 15 kills. The third set saw Fayetteville State at their peak, as they never trailed and sealed the match with a decisive 25-9 victory, ending on a high note with their largest lead of 16 points.
This comprehensive win highlighted the Broncos' resilience and teamwork, setting a strong tone as they get set to host Winston-Salem State on Thursday, November 14th for the last game of the regular season. The match will begin at 6:00 PM in Capel Arena.