TIGERS TAKE TWO OF THREE AT GRAY WOLF INVITE

SYLVANIA, Ohio – Olivet Nazarene University's (ONU) men's volleyball team kicked off their season with a strong showing at the Gray Wolf Invite, securing two victories in three matches on the campus of Lourdes University. 

The Tigers started the tournament with a nail-biting 3-2 victory over Hope International University (23-25, 25-22, 25-21, 14-25, 15-11). Brody McAfee led ONU's offense with a team-high 15 kills, while Tomas Gonzalez dished out 21 assists and contributed defensively with eight digs. After a slow start in the first set, the Tigers regrouped to win two straight sets before the Royals forced a decisive fifth set. Strong play at the net, including six blocks from Kahaku Marquez, helped ONU secure the final set and their first win of the season​.

ONU carried their momentum into the nightcap with a commanding 3-0 sweep of Lourdes University (25-19, 25-22, 25-17). McAfee was once again a standout, hammering 17 kills at an impressive .727 hitting percentage. Gonzalez tallied 29 assists, showcasing his consistency in setting up the offense. The Tigers' defense shined with 19 total blocks, stifling the Grey Wolves' attack and holding them to a .156 hitting percentage​.

The Tigers faced a tough opponent in No. 14 Cambellsville University, dropping the match 0-3 (23-25, 18-25, 17-25). Despite a strong start and a .333 team hitting percentage in the opening set, ONU struggled to maintain its rhythm. McAfee led with 10 kills, while Cade Ooms contributed 8 kills and Marquez recorded 2 kills and five blocks. The nationally ranked Tigers from Campbellsville capitalized on ONU's errors, pulling away in the final two sets​.

Looking Ahead

ONU will return to action for their home opener against Goshen College on Feb. 4th at 7:00 p.m. CST. The Tigers will aim to build on their early success and make a strong statement in front of their home crowd.

--ONU—

*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu