Greensboro, N.C., September 22, 2025
News Summary
The UNC Asheville volleyball team struggled at the Battle of North Carolina tournament, suffering defeats against North Carolina A&T and UNC Greensboro. The Bulldogs fought hard in both matches but ultimately fell short. In their opening match, Ana Djurovic stood out with 17 kills and 18 digs, while in the second match against UNC Greensboro, she recorded 15 kills and 7 service aces. The team is now turning its focus to upcoming Big South Conference play.
Greensboro, N.C. – UNC Asheville Volleyball Suffers Two Defeats at Greensboro Tournament
UNC Asheville volleyball faced a challenging day at the Battle of North Carolina tournament on September 20, 2025, held at Fleming Gymnasium. The Bulldogs lost both of their matches, first to North Carolina A&T and then to in-state rivals UNC Greensboro, as they prepare for the upcoming Big South Conference play.
In their opening match against North Carolina A&T, Asheville fell in four sets, with scores of 24-26, 20-25, 25-23, and 22-25. Despite the defeat, the Bulldogs showed resilience by rallying in the third set to avoid a sweep, leading from start to finish. Ana Djurovic highlighted the match with a standout performance, achieving a career-high of 17 kills and 18 digs, resulting in a double-double. Other notable performers included Albertine van der Goot with 7 kills and 4 block assists, and Kylie Cackovic who contributed 6 kills. Avery Loeback recorded 5 kills with an impressive .625 hitting percentage, alongside 1 solo block and 4 block assists. Selina Koç directed the offense with 19 assists and 4 digs, while Payton Rolfsen collected 12 assists and 4 kills. Additionally, Michelle Thao contributed defensively with 11 digs and 2 service aces, and Baylor Herlehy had 7 block assists.
In the second match, UNC Asheville faced UNC Greensboro in a tightly contested five-set match. The scores were 22-25, 15-25, 25-22, 25-23, and 15-12. Asheville initially started strong, winning the first two sets without allowing UNCG to take the lead. However, the Spartans staged a comeback, winning the last three sets, including a crucial fourth set after tying the score at 23. Djurovic once again excelled, delivering 15 kills, a career-high 7 service aces, and 13 digs for a total of 22 match points. Cackovic achieved a game-high of 18 kills along with 6 digs, while Baylor Herlehy contributed significantly with 13 kills and 1 solo block along with 7 block assists. The setter duo of Payton Rolfsen (29 assists) and Selina Koç (24 assists) combined for an impressive 53 assists. On the defensive end, Michelle Thao recorded a team-high of 34 digs, showcasing her vital role in the Bulldogs’ defense.
Overall, the day resulted in a total of four sets won and six sets lost for UNC Asheville, reflecting competitive but challenging matches against tough opponents. The Bulldogs will now shift their focus to Big South Conference play, opening at home against USC Upstate on Friday, September 26, at 6 p.m., as they look to regroup and perform more effectively.
Upcoming Schedule
Big South Conference opener against USC Upstate: Friday, September 26, 2025, at 6 p.m. at home.
FAQ
What was the outcome of the matches played by UNC Asheville at the Greensboro tournament?
UNC Asheville volleyball lost both of their matches, first to North Carolina A&T and then to UNC Greensboro.
Who had the standout performance for UNC Asheville against North Carolina A&T?
Ana Djurovic had a standout performance with a career-high 17 kills and 18 digs, achieving a double-double.
What were the scores of the second match against UNC Greensboro?
The scores of the second match against UNC Greensboro were 22-25, 15-25, 25-22, 25-23, and 15-12.
When is UNC Asheville’s next match?
UNC Asheville will open Big South Conference play at home against USC Upstate on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 6 p.m.
Match Summary Chart
| Match | Opponent | Result | Scores |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Match | North Carolina A&T | Loss | 24-26, 20-25, 25-23, 22-25 |
| Second Match | UNC Greensboro | Loss | 22-25, 15-25, 25-22, 25-23, 15-12 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- UNC Asheville Bulldogs Drop Doubleheader
- North Carolina A&T Takes Down UNC Asheville
- UNC Greensboro Ends Non-Conference with Sweep
- NCCU Volleyball Falls to UNC Asheville
- Google Search: UNC Asheville Volleyball
