ALAMOSA, CO. — Western New Mexico University (11-15, 5-9 Lone Star) defeated Adams State University (14-11, 8-4 RMAC) in four sets at Plachy Hall on Wednesday, securing the victory with scores of 27-25, 18-25, 25-23, 25-21. The Mustangs recorded 12 total team blocks, contributing significantly to their win.

The match commenced with Western New Mexico and Adams State exchanging early points, reaching a 3-3 tie. The Mustangs then gained momentum with a series of blocks and errors by the Grizzlies, leading to a 7-4 advantage, highlighted by a block from Ava Frezza and Brynlee Barris. The Grizzlies managed to close the gap, tying the score multiple times, but the Mustangs responded each time, including a kill by Kaitlyn Salgado, assisted by Hannah Haggard (Tucson, AZ/Tanque Verde High School), to maintain a slight edge.

As the set progressed, the Mustangs found themselves in a 20-22 deficit after a service ace by Adams State's Mercy Martinez. However, Western New Mexico rallied, with critical kills from Barris and Frezza, eventually tying the score at 24-24. The Mustangs secured the set with a decisive kill by Frezza, assisted by Savanna Haefs (Phoenix, AZ/Desert Vista High School), winning 27-25.

Western New Mexico initiated a promising start in the second set with a strong offensive effort, highlighted by Daphne Posthumus' (Lelystad, Netherlands/CCNV Harderwijk (Netherlands)) kill off an assist from Haggard, leveling the score early. Jayden Hughes (High Rolls, NM/Cloudcroft High School) also capitalized with a crucial kill, maintaining the Mustangs' competitive momentum. However, the Grizzlies responded with a series of strategic plays, including a kill by Makylee Wilson, which shifted the balance. 

Despite a late surge, with Barris and Carley Deck (Tucson, AZ/Tanque Verde High School) each contributing key kills, the Mustangs faced challenges against Adams State's defensive blocks and service aces. The set concluded with the Grizzlies securing a 25-18 victory, setting the stage for further competition.

Western New Mexico secured a tense third set, edging out Adams State 25-23. The Mustangs capitalized on key moments, including a kill by Barris assisted by Haggard, pushing the score to 5-4. Western New Mexico maintained momentum with a pivotal kill by Posthumus, extending their lead to 10-7. 

Despite Adams State leveling the score multiple times, the Mustangs regained control with a kill by Jade Rampton (Nelson, New Zealand/Shanghai American School) from Mikelle McAfee, advancing to 22-20. Ultimately, Posthumus delivered the decisive point, concluding the set with a 25-23 victory for Western New Mexico.

Western New Mexico surged ahead early in the fourth set with decisive plays, including a significant block by Rampton and a kill by Barris, leading to a 5-3 advantage. The Mustangs maintained momentum through a series of impactful plays, such as Hughes' kill to extend their lead to 8-6. Despite Adams State leveling the score at several points, the Mustangs consistently responded, highlighted by a critical service ace from Salgado. 

The set saw the Mustangs capitalize on the Grizzlies' errors, with Posthumus contributing crucial points. As the set progressed, the Mustangs extended their lead with a service ace from Haefs, pulling ahead 16-13. The Mustangs sealed their victory with a final kill from Posthumus, concluding the match 25-21 in the fourth set, securing the win.

Posthumus led the team with 13 kills on 30 attempts, achieving a .400 hitting percentage, while also contributing six total blocks and 18 points. Barris posted a team-high 15 kills with a .538 hitting percentage and added three total blocks, accumulating 17.5 points. Haefs facilitated the offense with 24 assists and added seven digs. Haggard supported the defense with nine digs and contributed 17 assists.

Natalie Gallegos led the Grizzlies with a notable performance at the net, achieving a .333 hitting percentage with eight kills and contributing significantly on defense with four solo blocks, totaling 12.0 points. Peyton Priddy facilitated the offense by delivering 13 assists over three games, while also playing a role in defense with six digs. Due to her setting, Adams State maintained competitive play. Hadleigh Richardson recorded 13 kills despite a lower hitting percentage of .089, adding to her contributions with two total blocks and 14.5 points. Ellie Miller also played a key role in setting with 12 assists, while serving effectively with one ace.

The Mustangs hold an overall record of 11-15 and are 5-9 in Lone Star Conference play. The Grizzlies have an overall record of 14-11 and stand at 8-4 in the RMAC.

Up next for Western New Mexico is a Senior Day matchup against Sul Ross State on Saturday, Nov. 8 at Drag's Court in Silver City, New Mexico. The action will begin at noon.
 

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).