ALVA, Okla. – The East Central University volleyball team traveled to Alva for their first Great American Conference game of the 2024 season against Northwestern Oklahoma State University, but was ultimately undone by their own errors on Tuesday night in the 3-0 road loss.
 
With the defeat, ECU's record falls to 5-4 overall and 0-1 in GAC play.
 
While the Tigers matched the Rangers in digs, assists, and aces, they struggled with a season-low hitting percentage, recording 27 attack errors, and facing 11 blocks from their opponents. This combination made it difficult for ECU to showcase their potential and find a rhythm.
 
Set one saw both teams tied at eight before the Rangers surged ahead with several long scoring runs, settling the game at 25-14. The second set looked more promising as the Tigers held a 23-21 lead, but NWOSU rallied to score the final four points, taking the 2-0 lead.
 
Pressure mounted in the third set as ECU fell behind early, giving NWOSU all the momentum until they eventually built their largest lead of 13 points at 23-10. The Tigers would go on a late 7-1 scoring run at the end to cut the deficit, but it was not enough to overcome, resulting in the sweep.
 
Emma Strickland finished with 13 kills and six digs while Odalys Gonzalez contributed seven kills and six digs. Julia Kabala recorded 20 assists and a team-high eight digs.
 
The ECU volleyball team will look to regroup as they gear up for the GAC/MIAA Crossover Tournament hosted by Central Oklahoma beginning on Friday, Sep. 20.