Insights As Eagles Roll Past NSU Spartans in Straight Sets

NORFOLK, Va. – The North Carolina Central University volleyball team secured a straight-set victory (25-22, 25-23, 25-16) over Norfolk State University on Friday evening at Gill Gymnasium.

With this win, NCCU improved their overall record to 5-14, standing at 3-5 in Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference play, marking their second consecutive victory. The triumph also completes a season sweep against Norfolk State after previously defeating the Spartans at home in September.

The Eagles’ offense was led by junior Emmie Modlin, who recorded 15 kills. Juniors Tayah Little and Kamren Harper contributed 13 and 12 kills, respectively, showcasing a well-rounded attack. Senior Bella Dearinger provided a match-high 35 assists.

On the defensive end, juniors Neira Joldic and Gabriela Felix-Baeza both achieved double-digit digs, with Joldic recording 14 and Felix-Baeza 10.

How It Happened

The Eagles took the first point and maintained the lead throughout the first set, winning 25-22. They led by as many as seven points at 13-6, finishing the set with 16 kills.

Following their first-set victory, the Eagles edged closer to a sweep with a 25-23 win in the second set. NCCU seized an early lead and never relinquished it, going ahead by six points at 12-6 and delivering a solid defensive effort with four blocks against Norfolk State.

In the third set, North Carolina Central maintained control from the start, finishing with a decisive 25-16 victory. They achieved their largest lead of nine points, capping the match with a total of 17 kills.

The Eagles aim to keep their momentum as they head to Washington, D.C. to face Howard University on Sunday, Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. The match will be available for streaming on ESPN+.