THIBODAUX, La. -- Despite a high-energy start featuring multiple ties throughout the opening set, the Nicholls State University volleyball program (0-8, 0-7 SLC) faltered in the team's return to their home court against league leader Stephen F. Austin (19-4, 7-0 SLC), dropping a straight sets sweep to the Ladyjacks on Thursday evening at Stopher Gym.

KEY STORYLINES & STATISTICS (L 0-3)
-- The Colonels electrified Stopher across a back-and-forth first set, bolting out a quick two-point lead and forcing ties with the SLC-undefeated Ladyjacks on nine different occasions from 3-3 up to 16-all before eventually falling by a final 25-19 margin. Following the early scare, SFA showed up in force throughout the ensuing two frames, closing out the victory with eight- and 11-point wins to secure the sweep.
-- Individually, juniors Katie Jones, Emily Gauthreaux and Aaliyah Burras composed the most effective offensive performances for the Red & Gray, combining for 21 kills on the night.
-- Meanwhile, senior Meghan Wozniak along with sophomore Lilly Bivens tag-teamed for the Colonels on the assists front, leading the squad with 16 and 13, respectively.
-- Defensively, sophomore Bailey Lyons stepped into the libero role for the first start of her collegiate career, smashing her previous personal digs record as she racked up a team-best 14 for the match.
 
UP NEXT
With the weekend opener against SFA concluded, the Red & Gray shift focus to Senior Day festivities as Lamar visits for a Southland clash, hosting the Cardinals on Saturday, Mar. 13 at Stopher Gym, first serve set for 11 a.m.

STAY SOCIAL
For more information on Colonels Volleyball, follow the team on Twitter (@Nicholls_VB), Instagram (@nicholls_vb) and like their Facebook page (Nicholls Volleyball).