Southern Miss Volleyball Outlasts Little Rock in Five Sets

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Southern Miss volleyball defeated Little Rock in a five-set match Friday at Elma Roane Fieldhouse. The Golden Eagles won 25-16, 25-18, 15-25, 13-25, 15-12, improving to 9-2 overall.

Southern Miss opened strong, taking the first two sets with ease. They led early in the first set and pulled away after a series of service aces by Elly Stewart. The Golden Eagles maintained their momentum into the second set, with Kaylee Lowther contributing key aces and Sadie McAda helping secure the win. They built a 2-0 lead heading into the third set.

However, Little Rock responded with aggressive play, winning sets three and four. The Trojans jumped out to a 5-1 lead in the third and extended their advantage, eventually closing the set 25-15. They carried that momentum into the fourth, turning a tight score into a commanding 25-13 victory, forcing a decisive fifth set.

In the final set, Southern Miss grabbed an early lead and held on despite a late rally by Little Rock. Kills from Stewart, McAda, and Lillie Johnson helped the Golden Eagles secure the 15-12 set and match victory. The team finished with 50 kills but struggled offensively, hitting .130 with 30 attack errors, according to match statistics.

McAda led all players with 14 kills, while Diana Wells added nine. Hazelwood set a career high with six kills and 33 assists. Southern Miss also showcased its serving strength, totaling 12 aces, with Lowther recording a career-best five. The Golden Eagles will open Sun Belt Conference play next week at Louisiana Tech on September 25 and 26.

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