LAKELAND, Fla. — Augusta University (1-0, 0-0 Peach Belt) outlasted Saint Leo University (0-1, 0-0 Sunshine State) in a four-set match at Jenkins Field House, winning 25-23, 20-25, 25-16, 26-24, with a notable 12 team blocks contributing to the victory.

In a tightly contested first set, Augusta managed to edge out the Lions 25-23, rallying from an early 5-0 deficit. Key contributions came from Mia Saavedra, who recorded three kills and delivered the decisive service ace, and Layne Witherspoon, who added two kills. Despite six service errors, Augusta capitalized on SLU's attack errors, particularly in the closing stages, to secure the narrow victory.

In a tightly contested second set, SLU edged Augusta 25-20, capitalizing on a series of service aces and attack errors. Augusta's Saavedra led with three kills, consistently assisted by Sydney Harrington, who also contributed a service ace. Despite a late rally that brought the score to 21-20, Augusta couldn't overcome the Lions' five service aces, including the closing trio from Molly Chappell, which ultimately secured the set for SLU.

Augusta seized control in the third set against SLU, securing a 25-16 victory with a balanced attack and strong defensive plays. Witherspoon led the charge with six kills and a service ace, while Harrington contributed with multiple assists, including a pivotal block alongside Witherspoon. The Lions struggled with attack errors, tallying eight in the set, as Augusta capitalized on these mistakes to build and maintain their lead.

Augusta edged out SLU in a tense fourth set, claiming a 26-24 victory. Key performances included Saavedra's four kills, which were instrumental in turning the tide in Augusta's favor. The home team was bolstered by Witherspoon's two service aces early in the set, and a crucial block by Sofiia Snitsarevych on set point secured the win. Despite trailing 19-15 at one point, Augusta capitalized on the Lions' nine attack errors to clinch the set.

Saavedra contributed 15 kills on 42 attempts and added three service aces, finishing with 20.5 points. Witherspoon matched her offensive output with 15 kills on 27 swings, hitting .444 and also serving up three aces for 19.5 points. Harrington facilitated the attack with 33 assists and supported defensively with 11 digs. Giulia Rodrigues led the defensive efforts with 19 digs and also contributed a service ace.

Tajma Muharemovic led the Lions with 30 assists and added 13 digs across four matches. Mia Moser was a defensive standout, recording 21 digs and contributing three service aces. Chappell provided offensive support with 11 kills and added three service aces, accumulating a total of 14.5 points. Gina Stavile was efficient in her attacks, posting a .438 hitting percentage with eight kills and two block assists.