Volleyball Hosts Arkansas Tech in Key GSC Matchup on Thursday

SEARCY – The Harding volleyball team takes the court Thursday as they host Arkansas Tech in a key Gulf South Conference matchup at 7 p.m., in the Rhodes Field House. Both teams are currently in a three-way tie with Christian Brothers for first place in the GSC West Division.

When the two teams met earlier this season in Russellville, Ark., Harding fell to Arkansas Tech 3-2 for their only loss in the GSC West Division. The Golden Suns hold the series lead, 37-32.

Harding (12-8, 6-1 GSC) is led by freshman outside hitter Mollie Arnold who averages 3.93 kills per set, ranking her second in the GSC.

Senior defensive specialist Emily Tate, reigning GSC West Division Defender of the Week, leads the Lady Bison defense averaging 5.06 digs per set ranking third in the GSC. Harding ranks second in the GSC in digs, averaging 17.57 a set. At the net, Harding is led junior middle blocker Alex Smith who has 44 blocks on the season.

After falling to Christian Brothers at home for their only GSC West Division loss, Arkansas Tech (22-4, 7-1 GSC) is on a four-game winning streak with all of them coming against GSC opponents.

The Golden Suns are led by senior middle blocker Sarah Von Lienen who averages 3.69 kills per set, ranking fourth in the GSC. Junior outside hitter Laura Farney isn't far behind her averaging 3.18 kills per set, ranking sixth in the GSC. Junior defensive specialist Brennae Benda leads the Arkansas Tech defense, averaging 4.23 digs per set.

Arkansas Tech ranks first in the GSC in opponent hitting percentage, holding their opponents to a .122 percentage. The Golden Suns rank second in the GSC in hitting percentage, hitting .259. Arkansas Tech also ranks second in the GSC in kills, averaging 13.56 a set.

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