SHAWNEE, Okla. —Melaina Haines delivered a double-double with a team-high 18 kills and 13 digs, but the Harding volleyball team fell short in a five-set marathon (25-20, 22-25, 13-25, 25-16, 6-15) against Great American Conference leader Oklahoma Baptist on Thursday night at the Noble Complex.
The Lady Bisons (14-3, 4-2 GAC) seized early control by taking the opening set, but the host Bison (14-4, 6-0 GAC) rallied behind a dominant fifth frame to defend their home court and preserve their unbeaten conference record.
Middle blocker Philomina Klotz turned in an efficient outing with 11 kills on a .375 hitting percentage to go along with three total blocks (two solo). Outside hitter Ella Drake also reached double figures with 11 kills, while middle blocker Rauly Eason posted six kills without an attack error (.400 hitting percentage) and three blocks.
Setter Olivia Wiedower directed the offense, dishing out 44 assists and added 13 digs for her own double-double. Defensive specialist Mallory Weyand led all Lady Bisons with 14 digs
Harding opened the match on a strong note, hitting .310 behind 16 kills to claim the first set 25-20. Oklahoma Baptist responded to take set two 25-22 and took control of set three 25-13.
Refusing to go quietly, the Lady Bisons stormed back in the fourth frame. Harding put together a 17-kill attack while hitting .300 to claim a commanding 25-16 victory and force a deciding fifth set. However, Oklahoma Baptist hit .500 in the finale, jumping out early and taking the final frame 15-6 to wrap up the match.
Harding will look to bounce back Friday afternoon as the Lady Bisons head to Bethany, Oklahoma, to take on Southern Nazarene. First serve is scheduled for 4 p.m.
