FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Johnson C. Smith University rolled to a straight-set victory over Bluefield State (25-21, 25-14, 25-14) on Friday afternoon at Felton J. Capel Arena, improving to 3-0 in CIAA competition and 6-11 overall.
The Golden Bulls were led by Kailyn Hitch, who posted eight kills and three block assists, while Rylea Ross added seven kills and four digs. Setter Yasmine Cannon contributed 18 assists and four digs, helping the team hit .132 overall. Johnson C. Smith controlled the net with 30 digs and two total blocks, limiting Bluefield State to a .286 hitting percentage.
Bluefield State (1-5, 0-3 CIAA) showed flashes of offensive rhythm, especially in the third set where they hit .440, but couldn’t sustain momentum. Allyson Martin led the Big Blues with eight kills and two blocks, while Callesta Styles added nine kills on a .571 clip.
Gabby Hale anchored the Bluefield State offense with 20 assists and five service aces. Despite a strong serving performance, the Big Blues struggled with consistency, committing 13 service errors and managing only three team blocks.
The match featured eight tie scores and three lead changes, with Johnson C. Smith maintaining control throughout.
