Montevallo, Ala. – The University of West Alabama volleyball team fell 3-0 to the University of Montevallo in their Gulf South Conference opener on Tuesday, September 24.

The Tigers struggled to find their rhythm against a well-balanced Montevallo squad, dropping the match in straight sets 25-15, 25-16, and 25-20. With the loss, West Alabama falls to 1-9 on the season and 0-1 in conference play.

West Alabama was led offensively by KB Kinney, who tallied seven kills. Jaida Alvin added five kills and contributed defensively with six digs. Setter Taylor Lamontagne dished out 13 assists and recorded two service aces.

Montevallo controlled much of the match with steady offensive production, posting a hitting percentage of .209 compared to West Alabama's .090. Montevallo's Maggie McColley and Nikol Antova led their team with five kills each, while Colton Thompson paced the Falcons with 13 assists and three service aces.

West Alabama struggled to get going in the first set, hitting -.111 with five kills and eight errors, allowing Montevallo to take advantage with a .160 hitting percentage and a 25-15 win. The Tigers improved in the second set, but the Falcons' defense held strong, as they took the set 25-16. Despite a stronger effort in the third set, where West Alabama hit .261, Montevallo closed the match 25-20.

Statistically, the match was marked by West Alabama's struggles in attack, managing 24 kills but committing 18 errors over 67 attempts. Montevallo, meanwhile, posted 27 kills with only 13 errors.

The Tigers will look to bounce back in their next match as they take on Auburn-Montgomery on Thursday, September 26th, at 6:00 pm on the road in Montgomery, Alabama.