NASHVILLE – Tennessee State showed fight in a hard-fought matchup but came up short against SIU Edwardsville, falling in three sets (27-29, 21-25, 11-25) Saturday afternoon at Kean Hall.

The Tigers battled point for point in the opening set, which featured 13 ties and seven lead changes before the Cougars narrowly pulled away, 29-27. TSU continued to push in the second frame, staying within striking distance throughout before SIUE held on for the 25-21 decision.

Offensively, junior Melae Lacy paced the Tigers with eight kills and added a .250 hitting percentage. Freshman setter Sagaia Reilly continued her steady play with 24 assists, while libero Erini Bitsaktsi anchored the defense with a team-high 13 digs. Senior Sydni Poston provided a spark from the service line with two aces.

Despite the setback, Tennessee State showed composure in extended rallies and continues to build momentum heading deeper into Ohio Valley Conference play.

Game Notes

• Lacy led the Tigers with eight kills and posted a .250 attack percentage.

• Reilly handed out 24 assists to lead all players.

• Bitsaktsi registered a match-high 13 digs.

• Poston added two service aces.

Up Next

Tennessee State returns to action Tuesday night with another OVC matchup, hosting Morehead State at 6 p.m. inside Kean Hall. Tickets will be available at the gate for $10, while kids five and under are free. Fans are encouraged to #PackKean and support the Tigers.