Columbus, MS — The USSU Eagles women's volleyball team competed in a tri-match at Mississippi University for Women on Saturday, falling in straight sets to both the host Owls and Stillman College. Despite the setbacks, the Eagles saw key individual contributions and identified areas of growth as they continue to build through the early stretch of the season.

In the first match of the day against MUW, the Eagles battled closely in the opening set before ultimately dropping a 0–3 decision (23–25, 10–25, 19–25). USSU posted 18 kills on 81 attempts, led by Jeya Dupris with five kills, 11 assists, and two blocks. Emmory McMurtray added four kills, two aces, and six digs, while Aubree Lamb served up three aces. Defensively, Oriana Morin anchored the back line with eight digs.

Later in the day, the Eagles returned to the court against Stillman College but again came up short, falling 0–3 (14–25, 19–25, 17–25). McMurtray paced the offense with nine kills, while Brenna Davis chipped in six. Cecilia Craig provided an all-around spark with three kills, three aces, and a block, and Morin once again led the defense with 14 digs. As a team, the Eagles produced 24 kills and 36 digs but were outpaced by Stillman's more efficient attack.

Though the day ended without a victory, the Eagles showed promise with strong serving and moments of aggressive net play. McMurtray's offensive presence and Morin's defensive consistency stood out, while Dupris and Craig contributed valuable versatility.

USSU will travel to Pensacola Christian College on Tuesday, September 16th. First serve is set for 6:00 p.m.