By Gio Gennero | Sports Writer
No. 14 Baylor volleyball defeated the University of North Texas in three sets, stretching its win streak to six straight matches. Over that slate, the Bears have swept through the last five and have gone 18-1 in their last 19 sets.
“It was really fun,” senior middle blocker Kara McGhee said. “We had a good time, I think we came out strong with energy, and that helped us throughout the rest of the match.”
Senior outside hitter Lauren Harrison put on an all-around performance with a team-high 10 kills, eight digs, and five blocks. McGhee pitched in nine kills and four blocks of her own.
“I was really proud of Kara,” head coach Ryan McGuyre said. “Big kills each time that we needed them, really consistent and smart, and high hit percentage (.429) as always.”
To start the match, the Bears (7-2) were firing on all cylinders, as they jumped out to a 16-3 early on in the opening set. The domination continued and they were able to keep their opponent to under double-digit points for the first time this season, winning the set 25-6.
The second set was much more competitive, and both teams kept things close the whole way through. After the two programs traded blows, they found themselves tied up at nine points. The Bears were able to pull ahead midway through the match, with a big block allowing them to go up 14-13. They were able to keep a strong handle on their lead but eventually took the set 25-22.
To start the final set, UNT (5-7) was able to take an early 7-5 advantage. However, Harrison responded with a booming kill to capture back the momentum for Baylor. Late in the set, the Bears furthered their lead to 20-18 after a kill. The team remained poised throughout the set and came away with the 25-20 victory.
Up next, Baylor has another three-match weekend at home. Starting with a contest against the University of Tulsa at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Ferrell Center.
The Bears are nearing Big 12 play, and McGuyre said this upcoming slate is an opportunity to improve.
“Hopefully a little more of the same of what we saw in the first set and in the last match,” McGuyre said. “It’s our last chance to fine-tune some things before conference [play].”
