TIGERVILLE, SC -- Fayetteville State opened its 2025 volleyball season with a strong showing, defeating the University of West Alabama in four sets (25–22, 25–23, 14–25, 26–24) Friday at Hayes Gymnasium.

The Broncos (1–0) were led by senior outside hitter Symone Morris, who posted a match-high 19 kills and added 13 digs for a double-double performance. Fayetteville State's offense was further fueled by Chiara Vittoni, who contributed 10 kills, and Giovanna Teixeira, who dished out a team-high 34 assists while adding 10 digs and three blocks.

Fayetteville State controlled the first two sets, jumping out to early leads and holding off late rallies from the Tigers. West Alabama responded with a dominant third set, but the Broncos mounted a dramatic comeback in the fourth, erasing a seven-point deficit to seal the match.

West Alabama (0–1) was paced by Katerina Korre, who tallied 14 kills on a .438 hitting percentage, and Cadence Goeden, who added 15 kills and five digs. Setter Jana Petkovic ran the offense with 41 assists, while Bailey Keef anchored the defense with a match-high 15 digs.

Defensively, the Broncos had three players in double figures in digs, with Morris, Teixeira, and Jasmine Culp anchoring the back row. Fayetteville State also recorded four blocks in the final set to stifle West Alabama's attack.

Vittoni added two service aces, while Amihan Johnson hit an efficient .500 with nine kills on 14 attempts.

The win marks a strong start to the season for Fayetteville State, who continues tournament play Saturday with matches against Mars Hill University at 10:30 a.m. and host North Greenville University at 4:30 p.m.

Fans can follow the action via live stream and live stats at fsubroncos.com/gameday.