ERIE, Pa. — Gannon University swept Daemen University 25-15, 25-22, 25-11 on Tuesday at Highmark Events Center. This match marked the 10th straight season that Daemen and Gannon have played each other, with the two teams combining for 14 NCAA tournament berths in that span.
Gannon's potent attack, highlighted by a .352 hitting percentage and nine service aces, proved decisive. Despite the Wildcats' five service aces, the Golden Knights' efficient setting and defense controlled the match, resulting in a straight-set victory.
Nahirka Malpica led the offensive charge for the Wildcats with 10 kills over three sets, posting a .381 hitting percentage.
Avery Dole contributed significantly with eight assists and three service aces, while also recording seven digs defensively.
Maddie Schamaun added to the playmaking efforts with nine assists and tallied a service ace. Sole Rancy was a defensive force at the net, finishing with one solo block and three block assists.
Sydney Wake made a strong impact for the Golden Knights, leading the team with 12 kills on 21 attempts, achieving a .571 hitting percentage over three games. Nehir Yazicioglu contributed significantly with nine kills and ten digs, while also serving three aces. Bengisu Arslan was a key player in the setting role, recording 23 assists and delivering four service aces, adding to her all-around effectiveness on the court.
The Wildcats hold a record of 6-10 overall and 2-1 in the East Coast Conference after their recent match, which was their final non-conference game of the season. The Golden Knights improve to 12-4 overall and remain undefeated at 3-0 in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
Gannon now leads the all-time series 18-1, having won 18 straight meetings. Daemen was seeking its first win in the series since 1998.
Daemen returns to conference play this weekend with road matches at St. Thomas Aquinas (Saturday, Oct. 11) and Mercy (Sunday, Oct. 12).