Clemson Defeats Virginia in Four Sets
The Tigers (14-10, 2-10 ACC) lost the first set against the Virginia Cavaliers (10-12, 3-9 ACC) but rallied to win the next three sets, finishing with a 3-1 victory on the road in Charlottesville (22-25, 25-20, 25-19, 28-28).
Key Performances
- Junior transfer Khaya Gordon led Clemson with 16 kills.
- Mia McGrath contributed 13 kills.
- Mia Moore added 12 kills.
Match Summary
Virginia jumped ahead early, building a five-point lead. Clemson narrowed the gap through kills by Gordon, Moore, and McGrath. The Cavaliers regained a five-point advantage before the media timeout. Despite Clemson cutting the lead to one with an ace by Claire Luoma and a kill by Nil Okur, Virginia secured the first set 25-22.
In the second set, Clemson responded quickly with three points from McGrath and Gordon's kills and a solo block by Kate Hansen. Blocks were crucial as Okur, Moore, and Gordon combined for several to build a five-point lead, forcing a Virginia timeout. Clemson maintained control and closed the set 25-20, sealed by McGrath’s final kill.
Momentum continued for Clemson in the third set, opening with runs of three and four points, highlighted by Luoma’s second ace of the day, which helped Clemson take the lead.
“Despite cutting into the lead, Virginia didn’t relinquish it to take the opening set, 25-22.”
Author's summary: Clemson overcame an early setback to win three consecutive sets, powered by strong kills and blocks, securing a solid road victory against Virginia.