TALLAHASSEE – The SWAC volleyball tournament will be underway Friday afternoon as the Wildcats take on Alabama A&M in their opening round matchup. The game begins at 1:30 p.m. EST from the Al Lawson Center as B-CU look to advance to the semifinals to face the winner of #1 Prairie View and #8 FAMU.


Saturday, November 22
Opponent: Alabama A&M (18-11, 9-7)
Time: 1:30pm EST
Location: Tallahassee, Fla. | Al Lawson Center
Watch Live: https://tv.swac.org/
Live Stats: https://famuathletics.com/sidearmstats/wvball/summary


During the first set, the Wildcats (14-14, 11-5) were able to score the first four points, giving them the early lead that they would never relinquish. The Delta Devils (4-20, 1-15) were able to remain in striking distance, but B-CU was able to maintain the lead. A kill by Nola Hemphill gave the Wildcats the set victory.

The second set was dominated by the Wildcats, as they were again able to build an early 4-0 lead. This time, B-CU held a comfortable lead throughout the set and did not allow MVSU to build any momentum. Nola Hempill once again ended the set with a kill.

The Wildcats did not have as good of a start during the third set as it was tightly contested early on. Following an attack error by the Delta Devils, the set was tied 4-4. From there, B-CU went on an 8-3 run they needed to put the game on ice. MVSU attempted to rally at the end, getting it within three at one point, but the Wildcats got it done in the end, winning the set on a service ace.
 

Alabama A&M is seeded fifth in the SWAC tournament, finishing the season with a 9-7 record in conference. They are coming off a loss on Sunday to Southern 3-2.

The Bulldogs are led offensively by sophomore Rayishon Jackson, who finished third in the SWAC in points en route to being named to the All-SWAC First Team and Newcomer of the Year.

Setter Briana Smith and Kelani Talakai were also named to the first team, with the latter also being named Libero of the Year. The Bulldogs' three first teamers tied them with Alabama State for most of any SWAC team.

Alabama A&M made their mark at the offensive end during the regular season, finishing second in the SWAC in points and kills. Overall, the Bulldogs are a balanced team that will force the Wildcats to be at their best in order to advance.


The Cats and Dogs have faced each other 13 times thus far in their history. Bethune-Cookman currently holds the slight edge in the series 7-6. The two teams split the regular season series, with both teams winning at home.



The winner of this game advances to the semifinals to face the victor in the Prairie View/Florida A&M matchup, while the loser goes home.
 
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