HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – The East Central University volleyball team faced Harding University in the semifinals of the Great American Conference Championship on Friday. In a tightly contested No. 3 vs. No. 2 seeded matchup, the Tigers battled hard but ultimately fell in four sets to the Bison, bringing their 2024 season to a close.
 
Although the season didn't end as hoped, ECU can look back on a highly successful year. The team set a new record for most wins in a single season, broke individual and team records, and achieved key milestones that have set a new standard for the program.

"I'm really proud of this team," Head Coach Danielle Essix said. "After starting our first tournament off 3-0, we knew this season was going to be special. All of the milestones we surpassed this season wouldn't have been possible without this group of seniors and I'm so glad that we achieved it all with them. They elevated our program to new heights and I'm excited to continue to move it forward. Although we came up a little short here in Hot Springs and didn't get the result we wanted, we played with so much heart. This team has a lot to be proud of for making history."

The match began with Harding opening set one with a 4-0 run. However, ECU quickly responded and held a 16-13 advantage. The Bison, though, erupted with a 12-2 scoring run to steal the set, taking a 1-0 lead.
 
In set two, the Tigers bounced back with authority, jumping out to a 9-2 lead and maintaining control throughout. ECU built a lead as large as 12 points (20-8) before finishing strong at 25-16 to even the match at 1-1.
 
Harding took an early 14-7 lead in set three, but ECU mounted a comeback with a 5-0 scoring run, pulling within two at 14-12. The Lady Bisons answered with several mini runs, ultimately taking a 19-16 lead and closing out the set with a 6-0 run to move ahead 2-1 in the match.
 
Set four mirrored the third, as Harding surged early. ECU fought back and pulled within 19-16, but the Lady Bisons finished strong with a 6-1 scoring run to seal the 3-1 victory, ending the Tigers' postseason run.
 
Odalys Gonzalez led the offense with 21 kills and nine digs, capping off her stellar career with All-Tournament Team honors. Julia Kabala added 32 assists and 15 digs, while Ashleigh Miller contributed six kills and three blocks. ECU's back row was solid throughout, with Valentina Tijerina and Mia Little recording career-highs of 32 and 21 digs, respectively. Macey McAmis led the team with four aces, as the Tigers set a GAC Championships record with 12 aces in a four-set match.
 
Several Tigers played in their final games representing ECU, including Odalys Gonzalez, Emma Strickland, Ashleigh Miller, Angel Nahinu, Julia Kabala, and Jada Abercrombie. Their leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on the program.