GAME PREVIEW
Opponent: Bluefield State
Date: November 2, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Ned E. Shott Gym, Bluefield, WV
Broadcast, Live Stats Link: fsubroncos.com/gameday

The Fayetteville State volleyball team hits the road this evening looking to extend its winning streak as the Broncos travel to face Bluefield State in a crucial CIAA matchup. Fayetteville State enters the contest at 20-4 overall and 17-3 in conference play, while the Big Blues bring a 14-15 overall record and a 9-11 CIAA mark into the match. 

About Fayetteville State 

The Broncos continue to be one of the CIAA's most balanced teams, ranking among the conference leaders offensively and defensively. Fayetteville State holds a .214 team hitting percentage while limiting opponents to just .113 hitting, nearly doubling the efficiency of its competition. The Broncos also average 12.6 kills, 15.8 digs, and 2.1 service aces per set. 

Fayetteville State is coming off a straight-set victory over Johnson C. Smith, highlighted by an efficient offensive performance. Two-time CIAA Offensive Player of the Week Mya Hejl led the attack with five kills on six swings for a remarkable .833 hitting percentage while adding two block assists. Melissa Gonzalez dished out 11 assists, Giovanna Teixeira added six assists, and Jasmine Culp recorded a team-high five digs. 

Broncos Players to Watch 

• Kemyah Harris (239 kills) Leads the team in kills and remains the Broncos' most consistent offensive threat at the net. 

• Mya Hejl (199 kills, 58.0 blocks) One of the CIAA's top all-around players, Hejl ranks second on the team in kills and leads Fayetteville State in blocks. 

• McKenna Miller (174 kills) The CIAA Rookie of the Week honoree continues to provide a dynamic scoring option on the outside. 

• Jasmine Culp (272 digs, 32 service aces) Anchors the back row and leads the Broncos in both digs and service aces. 

About Bluefield State 

Bluefield State enters the match after defeating Claflin in straight sets. The Big Blues posted a strong .252 hitting percentage in the victory and received double-digit kill performances from Soniya Garner and Kandace Griffin. 

While Bluefield State has been out-hit by opponents this season (.145 to .157), the Big Blues excel at the service line and net. They average 2.0 aces and 1.9 blocks per set, both slightly higher than Fayetteville State's averages. 

Big Blues Players to Watch 

• Soniya Garner (218 kills, 205 digs) A versatile six-rotation player who leads Bluefield State in kills and is third on the team in digs. 

• Tessa Heffner (568 assists, 45 aces) The engine of the Bluefield State offense and one of the conference's top setters. 

• Alexia Cunningham (125 kills, 84.0 blocks) A dominant presence at the net who leads the team in blocks. 

• Jada Burns (164 kills) One of the Big Blues' primary attackers and a key contributor in recent matches. 

Keys to the Match 

• Control the Net - Fayetteville State's front line featuring Hejl, Harris, and Kyla Powell will need to limit Cunningham and Bluefield State's blocking advantage. 

• Win the Serve-and-Pass Battle - The Broncos average more aces than opponents and force nearly a half reception error more per set than they commit. Consistent serving could disrupt the Big Blues' offensive rhythm. 

• Maintain Offensive Efficiency - Fayetteville State owns a significant advantage in hitting percentage (.214 to .145). If the Broncos continue to attack efficiently and avoid unforced errors, they should create separation. 

What to Expect 

Bluefield State is capable of making matches competitive through its aggressive serving and strong blocking presence, especially on its home court. However, Fayetteville State enters with the more efficient offense, stronger defensive numbers, and superior overall record. Expect the Broncos to lean on their balanced attack and defensive consistency as they pursue another conference victory. 

Outlook 

With postseason play approaching, every CIAA match carries added importance. Fayetteville State has built momentum behind a deep lineup and balanced production, and the Broncos will look to continue that success Monday night against a Bluefield State squad eager to protect its home floor and improve its conference standing. A Broncos victory would further strengthen Fayetteville State's position heading into the final stretch of the regular season. 

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