Gardner-Webb University
12-8,3-3Big South
USC Upstate
8-9,1-5Big South
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | Final F |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USC Upstate | 20 | 18 | 16 | 0 |
| Gardner-Webb | 25 | 25 | 25 | 3 |
Runnin’ Bulldogs Sweep USC Upstate for Third Big South Win
October 16, 2026 | Volleyball
BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – The Gardner-Webb volleyball team returned to the win column on Friday night, sweeping USC Upstate in straight sets (25-20, 25-18, 25-16) in Big South Conference action at Paul Porter Arena.
The Runnin' Bulldogs improve to 12-8 overall and 3-3 in conference play, while the Spartans fall to 8-9 overall and 1-5 in Big South action.
Gardner-Webb's offense was consistent throughout the match, recording 39 kills while hitting .241 as a team. The Runnin' Bulldogs totaled 13 kills in each set, using a strong performance at the net to complete the sweep.
Milla Lugo and Peyton Slone led the way offensively with eight kills apiece, while Sarina Galyean added seven kills. Lugo also contributed six blocks, while Samia Sayd recorded six blocks of her own as Gardner-Webb finished with 11 total blocks.
Caroline Franklin paced the Runnin' Bulldogs from the service line with four aces and added five blocks. Aleina Manaois dished out 16 assists and recorded 12 digs, while Olivia Lefebvre added 13 assists. Slone led the defensive effort with 13 digs, and Kiera Vazquez finished with 11.
Gardner-Webb controlled the match at the net, finishing with 39 kills and 11 blocks compared to USC Upstate's 27 kills and four blocks. The Runnin' Bulldogs also held the Spartans to a .083 hitting percentage.
UP NEXT
- Gardner-Webb returns to Paul Porter Arena on Saturday, Oct. 17, to host UNC Asheville in another Big South Conference matchup.
- First serve is scheduled for 4 p.m.
