GAME PREVIEW
Opponent: Claflin
Date: October 26, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Tullis Arena, Orangeburg, SC
Broadcast, Live Stats: fsubroncos.com/gameday

Riding a seven-match winning streak, the Fayetteville State University volleyball team heads to Orangeburg, S.C., on Monday, Oct. 26, for a 6 p.m. CIAA matchup against Claflin University. 

The Broncos enter the contest at 18-4 overall and 15-3 in conference play after defeating Bluefield State in four sets Thursday night. Claflin comes into the match with a 12-17 overall record and a 6-12 mark in CIAA play following a four-set victory over Winston-Salem State. 

About Fayetteville State 

Fayetteville State continues to be one of the top teams in the CIAA, ranking among the conference leaders in nearly every major statistical category. The Broncos average 12.6 kills per set while holding opponents to just 9.6 kills per set and a .118 hitting percentage. Defensively, Fayetteville State averages 16.0 digs per set and has recorded 166 service aces this season. 

The Broncos are coming off a four-set victory over Bluefield State in Capel Arena. Fayetteville State totaled 53 kills and hit .250 as a team while holding the Big Blue to a .092 attack percentage. 

Junior middle blocker Mya Hejl led the Broncos with 12 kills and a .611 hitting percentage while adding 11 digs. Kemyah Harris contributed 11 kills, and Kyla Powell added eight kills. Setter Giovanna Teixeira paced the offense with 18 assists, while libero Jasmine Culp recorded a match-high 17 digs. 

About Claflin 

Claflin enters Monday's match after a 3-1 home victory over Winston-Salem State. The Panthers average 10.1 kills per set and hit .160 as a team while relying on an aggressive serving attack that has produced 205 aces this season. 

Defensively, Claflin averages 13.1 digs per set and 1.9 blocks per set, making the Panthers one of the stronger blocking teams in the conference. 

In their last match, Claflin was led by Monica Burns, who recorded 19 kills and eight blocks. Zaniya Harris added 12 kills, while setter Nadia Embry dished out 28 assists. Libero Jadah Rasool anchored the back row with 19 digs. 

Players to Watch 

Fayetteville State 

• Mya Hejl - Hejl is coming off one of her best performances of the season, posting 12 kills on a .611 hitting percentage against Bluefield State. Her efficiency in the middle has provided a major boost to the Broncos' offense. 

• Kemyah Harris - One of Fayetteville State's most consistent attackers, Harris recorded 11 kills in the Broncos' last outing and remains a key scoring option on the outside. 

• Giovanna Teixeira - The sophomore setter continues to guide the Broncos' offense, totaling 18 assists against Bluefield State while helping Fayetteville State hit .250 as a team. 

Claflin  

• Monica Burns - Burns is one of the conference's most dangerous all-around players. She enters Monday's match following a 19-kill, eight-block performance against Winston-Salem State. 

• Nadia Embry - Embry directs the Panthers' offense and recorded 28 assists in Claflin's most recent victory. Her ability to distribute the ball will be crucial for the Panthers. 

Keys to the Match 

• Win the Net Battle 
  Claflin averages 1.9 blocks per set, while Fayetteville State relies on an offense averaging 12.6 kills per set. The battle between the Broncos' attackers and the Panthers' front row could determine the match. 

• Control Serve Receive 
  The Panthers have recorded 205 aces this season. Limiting service errors and maintaining solid passing will allow Fayetteville State to stay in system offensively. 

• Keep Defensive Pressure High 
  The Broncos are holding opponents to a .118 hitting percentage this season. Continuing that defensive success will be critical against Claflin's top hitters. 

What to Expect 

Monday's contest features two teams coming off victories and looking to build momentum down the stretch of conference play. Fayetteville State enters with confidence after winning seven straight matches and carrying a balanced attack led by multiple offensive options. Claflin has shown the ability to compete with anyone in the conference when its offense and blocking are clicking. 

The Broncos will look to continue their strong play on both sides of the net and extend their winning streak as they pursue another CIAA road victory. 

First serve is scheduled for 6 p.m. in Orangeburg, S.C. Fans can follow live stats and updates at fsubroncos.com/gameday and on social media by following @FSUBroncos.