MEMPHIS - Fresh off an opening weekend of non-conference action, the Tennessee State volleyball team heads to Memphis for the Rumble at the Roane Invitational. 
The Tigers, led by ninth-year head coach Donika Sutton, will play three matches in two days at Elma Roane Fieldhouse, taking on Northwestern State and USC Upstate on Friday before closing the tournament against Memphis on Saturday. 

Sutton, the longest-tenured volleyball coach in program history, continues to shape the Tigers into a competitive force in the Ohio Valley Conference. With 12 newcomers joining a strong returning core, TSU is working to establish chemistry and consistency early in the season while preparing for league play in mid-September. 

Tennessee State at the Rumble at the Roane 

• Dates: Friday–Saturday, Aug. 30–31, 2025 
• Location: Memphis, Tenn. 
• Venue: Elma Roane Fieldhouse 

Match Schedule (CT) 

• Friday, Aug. 30 – vs. Northwestern State, 1 p.m. 
• Friday, Aug. 30 – vs. USC Upstate, 4 p.m. 
• Saturday, Aug. 31 – at Memphis, 2 p.m. 

Coverage 

• Streaming: ESPN+ (Memphis match only) 
• Live Stats: MemphisTigers.com 
• Social: @tsutigersvb | @TSUTigersVB 

Where to Watch and Follow 
The Tigers' first two matches against Northwestern State and USC Upstate will feature live statistics through MemphisTigers.com, while Saturday's matchup with Memphis will be streamed live on ESPN+. Fans can also follow @TSUTigersVB on social media for updates, highlights and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout the weekend. 
Tournament Outlook 
Northwestern State (Southland Conference): 
A disciplined program that emphasizes defense and ball control, testing opponents in long rallies. 

• Series history: TSU trails 1-2. The Tigers earned a 3-0 sweep at the Rumble at the Roane in 2021, while the Lady Demons took the other two matchups. 

USC Upstate (Big South Conference): 
A fast-paced squad that pushes tempo and attacks aggressively from the pins. 

• Series history: TSU leads 1-0 after a five-set victory in 2017. 

Memphis (American Athletic Conference): 
The host and in-state rival closes the weekend with a high-energy matchup at Elma Roane Fieldhouse. 

• Series history: TSU leads 2-1. Memphis won the first meeting in 2010 before the Tigers claimed back-to-back five-set road wins in 2012 and 2013. 

For Tennessee State, the tournament is an early measuring stick. Setter Sagaia Reilly looks to continue her strong start running the offense, while Maygan Miller-Garcia provides a presence at the net. On defense, the libero duo of Erini Bitsaktsi and Sydni Poston stabilizes the back row, and Melay Lacy anchors the attack from the pins. 
Player Spotlights 

• Sagaia Reilly – Setter 
  Among the OVC leaders in assists per set, Reilly has quickly emerged as the offensive engine for the Tigers, keeping hitters in rhythm and creating balance across the net. 
• Maygan Miller-Garcia – Middle Blocker 
  A strong net presence with blocking and quick attacking ability. She contributes in transition and anchors TSU's front line. 
• Melay Lacy – Outside Hitter 
  Named an OVC Player to Watch, Lacy provides a reliable offensive option and can take over matches with her power and consistency. 
• Erini Bitsaktsi – Libero/Defensive Specialist 
  The Greece native brings international experience and composure, helping stabilize serve-receive and anchor the Tigers' defense. 
• Sydni Poston – Libero/Defensive Specialist 
  Adds depth and consistency in the back row. Her quick reads and passing ability strengthen TSU's defensive unit. 

By the Numbers 

• 9 – Seasons for head coach Donika Sutton, the longest-tenured volleyball coach in TSU history. 
• 12 – New players on this year's roster, adding depth and flexibility across rotations. 
• 2 – International players on TSU's roster: Giulia Gainelli (Italy) and Erini Bitsaktsi (Greece). 
• 5 – Straight years TSU has faced at least one AAC opponent in nonconference play. 
• 200+ – Career assists for Sagaia Reilly through opening weekend. 
• 2007 – The last time TSU and Memphis met on the volleyball court before this weekend. 
• 17 – Digs by Sydni Poston in opening weekend, most among TSU's liberos. 
• 14 – Kills for Melay Lacy across the first two matches, leading the offense. 
• 6 – Blocks by Maygan Miller-Garcia on opening weekend. 
• 3 – Consecutive years TSU has opened with a nonconference tournament on the road. 
• 1,000+ – Miles traveled during the 2024 nonconference slate before returning home to open OVC play. 

Tournament History 
The Rumble at the Roane Invitational is an annual showcase hosted by Memphis, featuring regional and national competition. This marks Tennessee State's first appearance at the event, giving the Tigers a chance to test themselves against diverse opponents while renewing an in-state rivalry. 
What's Next 
After Memphis, Tennessee State continues nonconference tournament play before opening OVC competition at the Gentry Center in mid-September. Sutton's squad will look to build momentum from its revamped roster and competitive early schedule as it chases another strong run in conference play