GRAMBLING, La. – The Grambling State University women's volleyball team secured its first victory of the 2024 season in dominating fashion, sweeping Centenary College 25-11, 25-8, 25-12 on Tuesday evening at the Frederick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. 
 
The Tigers improved to 1-3 on the season.
 
 How It Happened
 
Grambling State wasted no time asserting dominance in the first set, quickly pulling ahead and maintaining their lead throughout. Led by Essence Allen, who recorded nine kills and a .438 hitting percentage, the Tigers took control early with an aggressive offensive display and solid defense, allowing them to close out the set 25-11.
 
The second set followed a similar pattern, with Grambling tightening its grip on the match. Madison Reagins and Jazmine Binion made significant contributions, each finishing with 4 kills, while Ana Zink facilitated the attack with nine assists. The Tigers' defensive efforts, highlighted by 6 blocks. Centenary, allowing them to cruise to a 25-8 victory.
 
In the third and final set, the Tigers showcased their depth as Kenya Lucas stepped up with three kills on a .600 hitting percentage. Grambling maintained its intensity, preventing any rallies from Centenary, and comfortably closed out the match with a 25-12 win.
 
Between the Numbers
 
Grambling State dominated across all statistical categories, highlighted by a .323 team hitting percentage compared to Centenary's negative hitting percentage of -.180. The Tigers registered 28 kills to Centenary's 12 and committed only seven errors, showcasing their efficiency. On the defensive side, Grambling collected 41 digs and seven blocks, suffocating Centenary's offense and allowing them to score only 31 total points over the three sets.
 
 Allen led the Tigers with 9 kills, while Reagins and Jazmine Binion contributed significantly with 10.5 and four points respectively. Zink and Letícia Correa each added nine assists, ensuring a balanced and effective attack throughout the match.
 
Set 1: Grambling 25, Centenary 11 
Grambling set the tone right from the start with an aggressive offensive strategy. Allen led the way with a strong performance, and the Tigers' defense was impenetrable, holding Centenary to just five kills and a -.100 hitting percentage. The Tigers capitalized on Centenary's errors and closed out the set with a decisive 25-11 win.
 
Set 2: Grambling 25, Centenary 8
The second set was even more one-sided as Grambling continued to apply pressure. Reagins and Jazmine Binion were pivotal in the Tigers' attack, and the team's blocking was on full display, with Centenary managing only three kills and committing 10 errors. Grambling's efficient play led to a dominant 25-8 set victory.
 
Set 3: Grambling 25, Centenary 12 
In the final set, Grambling showed their depth with contributions from players like Kenya Lucas, who had three kills on a .600 hitting percentage. The Tigers maintained their composure and consistency, limiting their errors and controlling the pace of the game. Centenary struggled to mount any significant challenge, and Grambling sealed the sweep with a 25-12 win.
 
Up Next
 
The Tigers will head to Thibodaux, La. to take on Nicholls State on Thursday at 6 p.m. 
 
 
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