SOUTHFIELD, Mich. - The Lawrence Technological University women's volleyball team faced a tough task Wednesday evening, hosting No. 21-ranked Cornerstone University at the Don Ridler Fieldhouse and falling in three sets, 3–0 (25–19, 25–18, 25–20). Cornerstone improves to 21–5 (11–2 WHAC) as they prepare for a marquee matchup at No. 7 Aquinas College this Friday, while LTU drops to 12–13 overall (4–8 WHAC).
The Blue Devils hung tough in the opening frame, battling to a 16–16 tie before Cornerstone capitalized on three service aces during a set-closing run to claim set one 25–19. In the second set, the Golden Eagles jumped out early behind a crisp offensive attack that hit .317, building a comfortable cushion to take set two 25–18. LTU refused to go quietly in the third set, rallying late from a six-point deficit to pull within two at 22–20, but Cornerstone answered with three consecutive points to seal the 25–20 win and complete the sweep.
Maria Trevino Nunez and Chloe Winchell paced the LTU attack with 11 and 10 kills, respectively, with Winchell anchoring the back line with 14 digs for a double-double. Kyndal James was efficient in the middle, throwing down 5 kills on 8 attempts with just one error (.500 hitting percentage). Ella Aberlich and Dru Temple split setting duties, dishing out 12 and 9 assists, while libero Emily Hagelthorn collected 9 digs. Cornerstone was led by Gabby VerBerkmoes' game-high 12 kills (.429 hit pct) and setter Payton Hutchinson's 33 assists and 5 service aces.
Lawrence Tech will look to rebound as they continue WHAC play this coming weekend.
