NASHVILLE - The Tennessee State Volleyball team is back in action this weekend as they head across town to the Belmont Invitational on Friday and Saturday. TSU is slated to have two matches on Friday against Nicholls State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and one match on Saturday against Belmont.
 
Tennessee State at the Belmont Invitational

• Dates: Friday–Saturday, Sept. 5-6, 2025
• Location: Nashville, Tenn.
• Venue: Curb Event Center

Match Schedule (CT)

• Friday, Sept. 5 – vs. Nicholls State 12:30 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 5 – vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff, 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 6 – at Belmont, 5 p.m.

Coverage

• Streaming: ESPN+
• Live Stats: statb.us/b/606857 | statb.us/b/606858 | statb.us/b/600146
• Social: @tsutigersvb | @TSUTigersVB

Where to Watch and Follow
The Tigers' first two matches against Nicholls State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff will feature live statistics through BelmontBruins.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 – Belmont Invitational
Nicholls State (Southland Conference):
 The Colonels enter the weekend with a defense-first approach and an emphasis on long rallies. Their steady ball control challenges opponents to stay patient offensively.
 Series history: First-ever meeting between TSU and Nicholls State.
Arkansas–Pine Bluff (Southwestern Athletic Conference):
 A quick, athletic team that thrives in transition and looks to pressure opponents from the service line. The Golden Lions bring energy and pace to the court.
 Series history: TSU leads 3-0, with all victories coming in straight sets.
Belmont (Missouri Valley Conference):
 The host Bruins close out the weekend at the Curb Event Center. Known for their balanced offense and scrappy defense, Belmont leans on home-court advantage in rivalry-style matchups.
 Series history: TSU trails 1-3. The Tigers earned a five-set win in 2017, while the Bruins have taken the other three contests.
For Tennessee State, the Belmont Invitational marks an important opportunity to build momentum. Setter Sagaia Reilly continues to direct the offense, while Maygan Miller-Garcia leads the blocking effort up front. Melay Lacy provides firepower on the outside, and the defensive tandem of Erini Bitsaktsi and Sydni Poston anchors the back row. Player Spotlights

• I'onna Jones – Outside Hitter
   Brings athleticism and power to the Tigers' pin attack. Jones can change momentum with her swings and provide a reliable scoring option.
   
• Aliyah Harris – Defensive Specialist
   Adds quickness and ball control in the back row. Harris's passing and defensive reads bring stability to TSU's serve-receive.
   
• Giulia Gainelli – Setter
   The Italy native adds international experience and tempo to TSU's offense. Her decision-making and ball placement keep the Tigers balanced across the net.
   
• Italya Carter – Outside Hitter
   A versatile hitter who can score from multiple spots on the floor. Carter's athleticism and high ceiling give TSU another weapon offensively.

Tournament History
 The Belmont Invitational brings together regional programs for a competitive showcase in Nashville. For Tennessee State, it is a chance to test itself against both new and familiar foes, while renewing an in-city matchup with Belmont. What's Next
 Following the Belmont Invitational, TSU continues its nonconference tournament schedule before returning to the Gentry Center for its OVC home opener in mid-September. The Tigers look to use this early stretch to sharpen rotations, build chemistry, and position themselves for a strong conference campaign.