Clemson Defeats Virginia in Four Sets
The Tigers (14-10, 2-10 ACC) lost the first set to the Virginia Cavaliers (10-12, 3-9 ACC) but rebounded strongly to win the next three sets and secure a 3-1 victory on the road in Charlottesville. The final scores were 22-25, 25-20, 25-19, and 28-26.
Key Player Performances
- Junior transfer Khaya Gordon led Clemson with 16 kills.
- Mia McGrath and Mia Moore contributed 13 and 12 kills respectively.
Match Progression
Virginia started with an early five-point lead, but Clemson closed the gap to two points through kills by Gordon, Moore, and McGrath. Virginia then extended their advantage back to five points before the media timeout.
"The Tigers were able to pull within one after an ace by Claire Luoma and a kill by Nil Okur, but despite cutting into the lead, Virginia didn’t relinquish it to take the opening set, 25-22."
In the second set, Clemson came out strong with three early points from kills by McGrath and Gordon, plus a solo block by Kate Hansen. Blocks were crucial as Okur, Moore, and Gordon combined for multiple block assists, helping Clemson gain a five-point lead and forcing Virginia to call a timeout.
Clemson maintained control with key kills before McGrath sealed the set 25-20. The Tigers then carried their momentum into the third set with runs of three and four points, including Luoma's second ace of the day, to secure the lead.
"Blocks proved to be the name of the game in the second as Okur tacked on two block assists alongside Moore and Gordon to take a five-point lead and force Virginia to call timeout."
The Tigers’ resilience and teamwork allowed them to overturn the initial deficit and take home the win.
Summary: Clemson overcame an early setback with strong kills and defense, highlighted by key players, to defeat Virginia 3-1 in an impressive comeback on the road.
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