NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Belmont University volleyball program opened its 2025 home slate in four set battle, rallying after dropping the first set to defeat Seton Hall, 3-1, inside the Curb Event Center. The Bruins (1-1) secured the win by scores of 18-25, 25-22, 25-21, and 26-24.
After a slow start in the first set, the Bruins bounced back in set two with gritty play at the net and from the service line. Belmont surged ahead 21-18 after a huge block from Brenna Kauffeld, followed by a back-row attack from Brooke Gilleland. After Seton Hall tied the score, Emily Warmenhoven secured a 24-22 lead with a block, and freshman Hayden McGehee clinched the set with an ace.
The momentum carried into the third set as Belmont built a double-digit advantage, leading by as many as 10 points. An early serving run from Gilleland set the tone, and the Bruins' defensive presence led to the 25-21 win.
In the decisive fourth set, Belmont erased multiple deficits before closing out the match with a block from Lucy Kay and Gilleland, sealing the four-set victory.
Belmont's depth was on full display, with key contributions off the bench from Alexia Smollen, Madison Lansdown, Alivia Keegan, Hayden McGehee, and Mialee Dabbelt.
What's BruinÂ
- Freshman middle blocker Erin McMullen led all players with a match-high hitting percentage of .536.
- Junior opposite Brenna Kauffeld and senior outside hitter Brooke Gilleland each tallied 11 kills.
- Sophomore middle blocker Lucy Kay controlled the net with a match-leading eight blocks.
- Senior libero Lilly Lutz anchored the defense, collecting 25 digs.
Up Next
- The Bruins return to action Sunday, Aug. 31, hosting UT Martin at 2 p.m. CT inside the Curb Event Center.
Fans can follow Belmont volleyball all season long on social media — @BelmontVB on Twitter and @belmontvball on Instagram — and stay updated on all of Belmont Athletics through the official Belmont Bruins app, available in the Apple App Store and on Google Play.
#ItsBruinTime
