SEARCY, Ark. — The Harding University volleyball team opened its Great American Conference schedule with a four-set victory over Henderson State on Tuesday night (25-14, 21-25, 25-20, 25-16).

Harding was led by Ella Drake, who posted a season-high 22 kills with a .298 hitting percentage. Drake also proved to be a factor on defense and at the service line, recording 11 digs and match-high five aces.

Rauly Eason and Jacey Lambert each had 11 kills. Josie Bishop was also a standout, converting all seven of her attacks for kills. Harding's balanced offense was the product of Olivia Wiedower, who distributed 54 assists and added 10 digs.

Maddie Burrough led the Lady Bisons with 14 digs. Carter Fouche and Mallory Weyand also had 10 digs.

Here is a breakdown of the match by set:

·         First Set (Harding 25, Henderson State 14): Tied at seven, Harding went on a 6-2 run on three kills to lead 13-8. Leading 18-13, the Lady Bisons closed the set on a 7-1 run on two kills, two blocks and two aces to win the set.

·         Second Set (Henderson State 25, Harding 21): Harding took a 15-12 lead in the second set before the Reddies went on a 7-0 run to lead 19-15. The Lady Bisons couldn't recover as Henderson State won the set.

·         Third Set (Harding 25, Henderson State 20): Henderson State jumped out quick and took a 17-14 lead midway through the third set. Harding charged back and won the set on a 11-3 run on seven kills.

·         Fourth Set (Harding 25, Henderson State 16): The momentum carried into the fourth set as Harding's attack, hitting a match-best .378, proved too much for the Reddies. The Lady Bisons jumped out to an early 10-6 lead on six kills. Harding then went on a 6-2 run to lead 16-8 and didn't look back as the won the set 25-16.

The Lady Bisons improve to 10-2 overall and 1-0 in GAC play. Henderson State moves to 7-7 overall and 0-2 in the GAC.

Harding will be back in action on Thursday when it travels to Arkadelphia, Arkansas to take on Ouachita Baptist at 6 p.m., in GAC action.