LAKE CHARLES, LA – The Huskies were edged by McNeese in five sets (23-25, 25-22, 23-25, 25-23, 13-15) for the battle of the top of the Southland Conference standings. HCU split matchups against the Cowgirls after dominating in the first matchup in straight sets (October 8, 2022).

HCU (18-9, 10-4 SLC) was led by junior outside hitter Sara Arroyo who recorded 20 kills, eight digs, and a block. Freshman outside hitter Shelby O'Neal had 13 kills, a block, and an ace while senior middle blocker Jada Allen added 13 kills, three blocks, and a dig. Sophomore middle blocker Audrey Pearce recorded 10 kills, nine digs, and a season high eight blocks. Redshirt freshman setter Grace McLaughlin recorded a double-double dishing out 50 assists along with 14 digs.  Junior libero Kaley Feris led the team defensively with 17 digs while sophomore defensive specialist Alexia Jones and Tatiana Evans, and freshman defensive specialist Hazel Allen all added 12 digs to the back line.

McNeese (15-13, 11-3 SLC) was led by Skyeler Embry with a double-double of 19 kills and 21 digs. Mia Perales dished out 31 assists along with four digs. Bailey Tillman led the Cardinals defensively with 20 digs while Sanni Rantanen added six blocks.

The Huskies return to Sharp Gym on Thursday, November 3^rd to host the Cardinals of UIW . The game will start at 6:30 p.m.

UIW (6-18, 5-9 SLC) is led by Risa Sena with 202 kills and 166 digs on the season. Taylor Stoops has dished out 689 assists while averaging 8.40 assists/set on the year. Audrey Patton leads the Cardinals defensively with 223 digs on the year while Jacqueline Arrington has 76 blocks on the season.

The game will be live streamed on ESPN+, so come early, be loud, and wear your orange & blue!