The No. 6-ranked Emory volleyball team closed out the opening day of action of its National Invitational, battling to a Senior Night victory over UMASS Boston. The Eagles notched their 28th straight home win and upped their overall record to 30-3 following a 3-1 decision (25-14, 26-24, 25-27, 25-14) over the Beacons who fell to 20-9.
For the 31st time this season, Emory finished with an advantage in hitting percentage, registering a .222 mark (56-21—158) compared to the Beacons' .104 (42-26—154). Senior Leah Jacobs led all performers with 14 kills, her 21st outing of the year with double figures, while sophomores Jessica Holler and Sarah Maher contributed 11 and 10, terminations, respectively. Junior setter Sydney Miles turned in a solid all-around contest with 37 assists, eight kills, a .412 attack percentage (8-1—17) and 15 digs, tying her second-highest total of the campaign. Senior Kate Bowman fueled a strong defensive effort with 23 digs, her ninth outing this season with 20 or more.
Emory's 30 wins represents the eighth straight season and the 16th time in head coach Jenny McDowell's 19-year tenure at the school that program has reached that plateau.
Prior to the match, the four-member senior class of Bowman, Jacobs, Cat McGrath and Olivia Volarich were recognized for their contributions to the program.
Emory continues Invitational action on Saturday with a 1:00 pm match vs. Washington and Lee.