Dominic Di Palermo

Outside/ middle hitter Logan Grevengoed spikes the ball during the WKU Volleyball match against the University of Arkansas at E.A. Diddle Arena in Bowling Green on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023.

Western Kentucky University took on no. 17 University of Arkansas this Friday, September 8th. This made up the Hilltoppers second match at the Holiday Inn Invitational, marking the first home tournament of the season. 

Despite a valiant effort from the Hilltoppers their record now sits at 5-4. 

In the first set, WKU fell 25-22, despite a tough battle. The team held a .081 hitting percentage, compared to Arkansas .184%. 

The Hilltoppers stepped it up in the second set, winning 25-17. They built a strong hitting percentage at .343%, in contrast to the Razorbacks .128%. Within the set win, the team got four blocks and 13 kills. All of which was done with only one WKU error. 

Western Kentucky sealed the third set, winning 25-20. They led against Arkansas with 15 kills, compared to their eight. 

The Razorbacks tied up the match in the fourth set, making the game record 2-2. Despite Western’s higher hitting percentage of .196%, Arkansas ultimately won 25-22.

In the final set, the Hilltoppers met their fate, losing 15-12. With a low hitting percentage of only .056% and 3 attacks, they were outplayed by Arkansas’ .316% hitting percentage and 10 kills. 

The Hilltoppers still put-up good numbers even after their loss to No. 17 Arkansas. Fifth year senior outside hitter, Paige Briggs led the team with 23 points and 21 total kills. Additionally, red shirt sophomore setter Callie Bauer brought in 23 assists and upheld the highest hitting percentage on the team at .333%. 

After a tough loss, Western Kentucky University will take on the College of Charleston Saturday, September 9th in E.A. Diddle Arena at 12:30 p.m. The match will conclude the Holiday Inn Invitational for the Hilltoppers. 

Sports reporter Shelby Huelsman can be reached at [email protected].