CEDAR CITY, Utah - In a tightly contested five-set thriller, the Southern Utah Thunderbirds put together their most complete performance of the season before falling 3-2 (25-23, 25-21, 25-21, 25-15, 15-10). Despite the outcome, the Thunderbirds showed grit, growth, and determination in front of their home crowd at the America First Event Center.

Progress on Display as T-Birds Show Fight

Southern Utah saw major contributions from up and down the roster, highlighted by a dominant night from Victoria Zibecchi, who tallied 15 kills on .324 hitting while also contributing defensively with two digs. Kaitlyn Aleshire added 13 kills, three blocks, and two service aces, continuing her strong early-season form. Amaya Tobias was a model of efficiency, recording 10 kills on an impressive .455 hitting percentage with zero errors.

Defensively, Amanda Mendoza was a standout on the back line, racking up 12 digs and providing a steady serve receive throughout the match. Swayzee Mason led the setting effort with 17 assists and a strong presence at the net. In total, SUU posted a .214 team hitting percentage, their highest of the season.

Offensive Duo Lifts UC Riverside to Victory

UC Riverside relied heavily on the offensive firepower of Sophia Ewalefo, who impressed with 19 kills. Mia Delahoussaye added 21 kills, while setter Makkena Tong paced the Highlander offense with 42 assists. UC Riverside hit .185 as a team and was challenged through the night by SUU's aggressive serving and backcourt defense. 

Coach Jensen Said

"We lost sight (of the basics) in those sets that we lost, and we dominated in the fourth set just because they were doing the things that they were working on. Now it's time to continue doing that longer."

Up Next

The Thunderbirds face a quick turnaround, as they face Sacramento State on Friday at 6 PM MT at the America First Event Center.

Tickets

Tickets are on sale now! The home opener is set for the second week of the season when the T-Birds host a tournament September 4-6. Get your tickets today by visiting tbirdtickets.com!

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