Albany State pushes Spring Hill to five sets, but Lady Badgers earn another SIAC title

ALBANY — The Albany State Lady Golden Rams left it all on the court Saturday afternoon, pushing top-seeded Spring Hill College to the limit in a thrilling five-set match. Despite their valiant effort, the Lady Badgers from Mobile, Ala., claimed another SIAC Championship with a 25-14, 25-15, 22-25, 26-28, 15-5 victory over Albany State.

Spring Hill College (24-7) entered the tournament without losing a single set in SIAC play this season until Thursday, when Clark Atlanta broke their streak. Albany State became the only team to force a decisive fifth set against the dominant Badgers.

The Golden Rams delivered a gritty performance, refusing to back down after losing the first two sets. Albany State turned the tide in sets three and four, with junior Talia Smith leading a stellar defensive effort. Smith’s relentless dives and digs kept the ball in play against Spring Hill’s powerful hitters, though she briefly exited during the fourth set for a much-needed rest.

Set four was a nail-biter, with both teams battling point-for-point. Controversial calls helped keep Spring Hill alive, but Albany State refused to quit. Joy Robinson, Jarianis Perez, and Kennedi Wallace delivered key kills in the third set, and Wallace sealed the fourth with a clutch spike to force a decisive fifth set.

However, the final set proved anti-climactic. Spring Hill surged ahead early with four consecutive points at the net, and Albany State couldn’t recover as the Lady Badgers secured yet another SIAC title.

Albany State’s determination shone through in every point, with standout performances from key players. Sydney Melton led the offense with 8 kills, 18 digs, and 9 points. Joy Robinson added 7 kills and 8 total points, while Kaylin Teasley displayed her versatility with 7 kills, a team-high 6 blocks, and 12 points. Jarianis Perez recorded 12 kills and 10 digs, and Talia Smith anchored the defense with 15 digs.

Albany State defeated Kentucky State and Fort Valley State earlier in the tournament to advance to the title match.

The Lady Golden Rams conclude their season as SIAC runners-up with a 19-10 overall record.

By Joe Whitfield
Sports editorJoeWhitfield[email protected]
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