Great Lakes Wire

The Northern Michigan University volleyball team secured a victory against Lake Superior State Lakers on Friday evening in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The Wildcats triumphed in four sets with scores of 25-27, 25-18, 25-20, and 25-17.

Despite losing the first set, NMU gained an early lead in the second set and maintained control through to the final set. Jacqueline Smith led the team with 17 kills, marking her 14th consecutive match reaching double digits. Evynn Layshock contributed 12 kills, while Lauren Van Remortel provided 42 assists. Caylie Barlage was notable for her defensive efforts with 24 digs.

NMU achieved a .232 attack percentage and recorded 14 aces, their second-highest total of the season. Barlage's six aces were significant as they ranked second most in a four-set match within the GLIAC this season.

This victory extends NMU's winning streak to four matches, their longest of the season so far. Their overall record now stands at 12-16 and they are 9-8 in conference play. This win also marks their fifth consecutive victory over the Lakers.

In the opening set, NMU initially led but fell behind late to lose 27-25 after Lake Superior State scored three consecutive points. In response, NMU took control early in the second set with an eight-point run led by Barlage's service aces and never relinquished their lead, winning 25-18.

The third set saw NMU start strong again with a four-point run and they held off a late challenge from Lake Superior State to win 25-20. In the fourth set, another strong start helped secure a comfortable 25-17 win for NMU.

Looking ahead, NMU will conclude their regular season against No. 20 Ferris State on Saturday at 5 p.m., before entering the GLIAC Quarterfinals next Wednesday where top teams will compete for home matches.