MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The West Virginia University volleyball team (4-0) continued its undefeated start to the season with a dramatic five-set win over North Dakota to open the West Virginia Invitational in Morgantown, W.Va. The Mountaineers battled to secure the victory with set scores of 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, and 15-9.
 
Outside hitter Cassidy Tanton led the charge with a match-high 17 kills on a .424 hitting percentage, while also contributing 28 digs and 5 blocks for 17 total points. Outside hitter Nina Horning added 15 kills and 8 digs, totaling 16 points.
 
Middle blocker Maddy McGath delivered a steady performance with 9 kills on a .438 clip and 4 blocks. Right side Anna Barr made her presence felt at the net, recording 6.0 total blocks and 8 kills on a .389 hitting percentage.
 
The setting duo of Alexis Finnvold and Sarah Pfiffner combined for 45 assists, keeping the offense fluid and unpredictable. Defensively, libero LonDynn Betts anchored the back row with 18 digs and a .944 reception percentage.
 
The night also featured a milestone moment for middle blocker Laila Ibrahim, who recorded her 250th career block, adding three more to her tally in the match.
 
The Mountaineers return to action tomorrow as the West Virginia Invitational continues at the WVU Coliseum where they will play Liberty at 6 p.m.
 
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