SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. - Kaitlin Jordan led the Davenport University volleyball team to a dominating victory over Lake Superior State in straight-sets at the James Norris Center on Friday night, winning 25-14, 25-14, 25-12. The senior led the Panthers (8-7, 5-3 GLIAC) offense with 12 kills and a .500 hitting percentage, adding one service ace to her performance.
Davenport opened the first set with a service ace by Julia Frederick, setting an early tone against the Lakers (0-11, 0-7 GLIAC). After a brief exchange of points, DU seized momentum with a series of key plays, including a block by Jordan and a service ace from Maggie Juncaj, extending their advantage. Jordan and Sydney Swan contributed crucial kills, supported by consistent setting from Madison Berry, allowing Davenport to build a significant lead. Despite a late push from the Lakers, Davenport maintained control and closed the set decisively, ending with a 25-14 score.
In the second set, Davenport capitalized on a service error by the Lakers' Valeriya Varnakova to secure the first point. Jordan and Swan led Davenport's attack, each contributing key kills that, combined with defensive stops, kept the team ahead. The momentum shifted decisively in Davenport's favor with a 5-0 scoring run, highlighted by kills from Abby Alan and Livi Overbeek, establishing a comfortable lead. As the set continued, Davenport maintained their momentum, responding to the Lakers' points with consistent offensive execution. Juncaj delivered a service ace, and Amelia Werner's blocking was instrumental in maintaining the lead. The set concluded with the Panthers extending their advantage, closing with a 25-14 score.
Davenport surged ahead in the third set with a decisive performance, opening with a series of errors by the Lakers which contributed to a 7-2 lead. Juncaj and Jordan capitalized on these opportunities, with Jordan securing multiple kills, supported by assists from Berry. This sequence set a strong offensive tone for Davenport. Swan's service ace and additional kills by Karley Pretzer and Overbeek extended Davenport's lead. Despite intermittent scoring from the Lakers, DU maintained momentum, including service aces from Swan and Jordan. The set concluded with a commanding 25-12 victory for Davenport, showcasing a robust offensive display and solidifying their control of the match.
Berry facilitated the attack, recording 31 assists while contributing 13 digs on defense, marking her fifth double-double of the year. Swan added 11 kills and two service aces, complementing her effort with seven digs. Defensively, Hayley Carr finished with match-high 14 digs.
Up Next
The Panthers will head to University Center, Mich. tomorrow to take on Saginaw Valley State at 5:30 p.m.