THIBODAUX, La. – After sweeping Alabama A&M yesterday, the Nicholls State University volleyball team defeated Arkansas – Pine Bluff 3-1 on day two of the 2025 SLC-SWAC challenge to improve to 7-1 on the season.
 
Nicholls offense struggled early as they hit .156 in the first set compared to .300 for the Lions. The Lions used that stable offense to take the first set 25-23. The Colonels found their rhythm and took control of the next three frames with stout defense and efficient offense. The Red & Gray would hit .300, .481, and .520 across the final three stanzas to finish with a .331 hitting percentage while the Lions hit .183 for the contest.
 
The Colonels' attack was paced by setter Isabella Padilla who dished 46 assists. The offense was spearheaded by Tamara Chavez who led the way with 29 kills while hitting .411 from the floor. Maelie Chupin added 10 kills while hitting .444 from the floor while Harper Holden and Ana Clara Valentim do Vale combined for 14 kills.
 
The stout Red & Gray defense was anchored by defensive specialist Olivia Besson and libero Karina Smith who led the team with 14 and 13 digs, respectively. Ava-Claire Calais added seven digs while Padilla and Chavez combined for 11. Tierney Terrell and Valentim do Vale tallied two block assists apiece while Holden had one solo block.
 
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The Red & Gray (7-1) will host Grambling and Southern on Saturday, Sept. 13 at noon and 4 pm., respectively.