MEMPHIS - In their season opener, the Mississippi Valley State women's volleyball team faced a tough challenge against the Memphis Tigers at the Larry O. Finch Center. Despite showing moments of resilience, the Devilettes struggled to find their rhythm, ultimately falling in straight sets with scores of 25-13, 25-10, and 25-17.

Set 1: Mississippi Valley started the first set slowly, with Memphis quickly capitalizing on errors to take an early lead. Although Taylor Wooten provided some bright moments with three kills, the Devilettes couldn't close the gap, finishing the set with a .080 hitting percentage compared to Memphis's .480. Memphis dominated with strong serving and consistent attacks, leaving Mississippi Valley trailing throughout the set.

Set 2: In the second set, Mississippi Valley showed their best performance of the night, with more consistent plays and fewer errors. However, the Memphis Tigers remained in control. Rhodes and Wooten continued to fight hard, combining for multiple kills, but the Devilettes were unable to match Memphis's efficiency at the net. Memphis closed out the set with a 25-17 win, maintaining pressure until the end.

Set 3: The final set saw a slight improvement in the Devilettes' performance. Lyric Edwards and Alaya Rhodes attempted to keep the team competitive with key plays, but Memphis's blocking and serving were too strong. Mississippi Valley managed a hitting percentage of .000, struggling to get past the Memphis defense, which boasted a .269 hitting percentage. The set ended with Memphis comfortably ahead, 25-10.

Key Performances:

• Taylor Wooten led the Devilettes with 6 kills and 7 points overall.
• Alaya Rhodes contributed with 5 kills and a solid defensive effort.
• Lyric Edwards added 3 kills and was a key figure in the team's fightback during the final set.

Despite the loss, Mississippi Valley will look to build on the experience as they prepare for their next match.