PORTLAND, Ore. – Seattle University volleyball dropped a straight-sets decision to University of Portland, 23-25, 16-25, 23-25, Thursday at the Chiles Center.
The Redhawks (1-5) got double-digit kills from Arianna Bilby (14) and Merima Smajlovic (10), but it would not be enough to overcome a balanced Pilot attack. The home team moved to 6-1 on the season.
A tight first set saw Seattle U knot the score at 15-15 on a Bilby kill before Portland was able to take the 25-21 win.
The Pilots went on an early run in the second set, opening up a 7-2 lead and forcing a Seattle U called timeout. The Redhawks were unable to work their way back into the set, but opened the third with renewed energy.
The Redhawks led 19-13 late in the set, looking to force a fourth set. Behind 17 assists from freshman Anae Asuncion, Seattle U hit .323 for the set. But a late run of points by the Pilots thwarted the efforts and concluded the match.
Katlyn Sipes and Bilby led the way with eight digs apiece. Tatum Chase and Yasemin Elmas collected three blocks each.
The Redhawks make their home debut on Saturday, Sept. 14 in a rematch against the Pilots. First serve from the Redhawk Center is set for 1 p.m. The match will air live on ESPN+.
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