In a non-conference match in the Nike/Molten Invitational, the Horned Frogs utilized a strong front row attack and accurate passing to sweep the Lady Techsters 25-18, 25-21, 25-15 and open the season with a win.
After falling behind 5-0 in the first game, the Frogs got it together and cruised through the second and third games, tightening their passing and hitting along the way.
Junior Lauren Otto imposed her will from the left side to the tune of 14 kills and senior Devon Kirk pounded 9 kills from the middle.
Otto and Kirk were fed all night by senior Nirelle Hampton, who set her way to 35 assists while adding 6 kills herself. Otto added 11 digs as she demonstrated her defensive and offensive ability.
Otto said she felt the team got off to a solid start for the season.
“We were excited to play for the first time,” Otto said. “We’re expecting to have a great season.”
Head coach Prentice Lewis noted the team’s overall efficiency as crucial to the win.
“It was a whole team effort,” Lewis said. “I thought they all played hard.”
The Horned Frogs play UMKC of tomorrow at 1 p.m. followed by Belmont at 7 p.m.