PIKEVILLE, Ky. - University of Pikeville volleyball was defeated 3-0 by Milligan University in their 2024 home opener Tuesday night.  

Set 1: Milligan 25, UPIKE 13 

Milligan got out to an early 9-2 lead and carried that lead to a victory in set one. The closest the Bears came was a 4-0 run to cut MU's lead to 16-9 midway through the set, but the Buffaloes' lead proved to be too much to overcome. The Buffaloes took set one 25-13 and took a 1-0 match lead.  

Set 2: Milligan 25, UPIKE 20 

UPIKE responded with a strong effort in set two. The teams traded runs midway through the second until the Bears tied the score at 16-16. From there, Milligan went on a 9-4 run to win set two and claim a 2-0 match lead.  

Set 3: Milligan 25, UPIKE 23 

UPIKE scored nine of the first 14 points in set three. Milligan responded with a 7-2 run to take a 12-11 lead. Shortly after, UPIKE went on a 6-0 run to go ahead 19-15. Later in the match, the Bears led 23-19 but could not close out the Buffaloes. MU went on a 6-0 run to win set three 25-23 and win the match 3-0.  

Lanie Hawley and Cassidy Rivas led the Bears will nine kills each. Hawley also tied Olivia Chapman with two blocks, and junior Alondra Ayende had a block as well. Tylie Barton had 27 assists and freshman libero Ashtyn Filkins led the UPIKE defense with 15 digs, followed by Cassidy Rivas with 12.  

UPIKE is 6-3 (1-2 AAC) following Tuesday night's loss to Milligan. The Bears will hit the court again Friday when the St. Andrews Knights travel to Pikeville. Game time between UPIKE and SAU is set for 6:30 p.m. at the UPIKE Gym.  

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