RICHMOND, VA — Virginia Union University's volleyball team earned a key CIAA victory Thursday evening, defeating Bluefield State 3–1 (25-19, 15-25, 25-9, 25-17) inside historic Barco-Stevens Hall. The win improves the Lady Panthers' record to 12-10 overall and 6-5 in CIAA play, while the Big Blue fall to 11-15 (8-3 CIAA).

Junior Alana Simmons led the way for VUU with an all-around performance—11 kills, 10 digs, and 5 aces—good for a team-high 16 points. Madison Hill added 10 kills, hitting .320 and .304 respectively to fuel the offense. Senior setter Ashlee Franklin directed the attack with 38 assists, while junior Maria Pena and senior Aireanna Johnson combined for 17 kills and solid front-row defense.

Defensively, libero Jasmine Powell and Leilah Beasley anchored the back row with 11 and 16 digs, respectively, as VUU limited Bluefield State to just a .110 team hitting percentage.

The Lady Panthers won the first set 25-19, stumbled in the second 15-25, but stormed back with dominant play in sets three and four—holding Bluefield State to single digits in the third set while hitting .407 as a team.

"Tonight, our girls hit the court with heart and determination," said VUU Head Volleyball Coach Anetra Sims.  "They played exceptionally well as a team, showing grit, perseverance, and true teamwork from start to finish.  With a few conference games still ahead, this group is ready to finish strong and continue showing the passion and heart that define our program. Let's keep the momentum going!" 

Virginia Union returns to action on Monday, October 27, traveling to face Virginia State in a matchup which could determine the champion of the Northern Division of the CIAA.