ALBANY, Ga. – Kentucky State head women's volleyball coach Keith Jones earned his first career victory with a 3-2 win over Fort Valley State at the SIAC East/West Crossover, hosted by Albany State.
 
The Thorobreds earned their first win of the season in thrilling fashion, outlasting Fort Valley State in a five-set showdown on Saturday afternoon. Kentucky fought relentlessly coming from behind to win 18-25, 25-21, 25-27, 25-21, 15-5.
 
After dropping the first set, Kentucky State found its rhythm in the second, led by Timaia Sugars, who registered 11 kills and four blocks. Amber Gregory added 22 assists and served up four  aces to help spark the Thorobreds offense.
 
In the third set, Kentucky State fought hard but narrowly fell 27-25. However, the Thorobreds responded with a convincing 25-21 win in the fourth set, forcing a decisive fifth set. With momentum on their side, Kentucky State dominated the final set 15-5, securing their first victory of the season.
 
Justice Mudd anchored the defense with 30 digs, while Randi Neal added 9 kills with an impressive .471 hitting percentage.
 
SIAC East/West Crossover Scores
Match 1: vs Savanah State
Date: Sept. 20, 2024
Result: L, 2-3 (26-24, 25-21, 19-25, 11-25, 10-15)
 
Match 2: vs. Allen
Date: Sept. 20, 2024
Result: L, 2-3 (26-28, 20-25, 25-23, 25-23, 10-15)
 
Match 3: vs. Albany State
Date: Sept. 21
Result: L, 0-3 (16-25, 15-25, 14-25)
 
Match 4: vs. Fort Valley State
Date: Sept. 21
Result: W, 3-2 (18-25, 25-21, 25-27, 25-21, 15-5)
 
   
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