September 5, 2025 – Orangeburg, SC
The Allen University women's volleyball team kicked off its 2025 season with a hard-fought 3–1 victory over Claflin University in a Thursday night road showdown that showcased grit, depth, and early-season poise.
In front of a crowd of over 500 fans inside Tullis Arena, the Lady Yellow Jackets (1–0) overcame a tightly contested second set to secure the win in four (25–23, 27–29, 25–22, 25–23) over the Lady Panthers (0–1), marking an electric start to what promises to be a dynamic season.
Back-and-Forth Battle
The match opened with energy on both sides as Allen narrowly edged Claflin 25–23 in Set 1, holding off a late push from the hosts. Claflin answered in Set 2, capitalizing on a few Allen errors to claim the set 29–27 in extra points—tying the match at 1–1.
However, the Yellow Jackets responded with composure. Behind sharp serving, timely kills, and defensive resilience, Allen took Set 3 by a score of 25–22 and then closed out the match 25–23 in Set 4—silencing the home crowd and starting their campaign with a statement win.
Stat Sheet Breakdown
Allen led the match in several key categories:
- Kills: 45 (to Claflin's 37)
- Attacks: 126 total
- Aces: 13 service aces (to Claflin's 11)
- Digs: 44 total
- Assists: 36 team assists
- Hitting %: .206 overall
- Total Points Scored: 100
Though Claflin posted a higher hitting percentage (.262) and tallied 3 total blocks (to Allen's 0), it wasn't enough to overcome Allen's offensive consistency and ability to win the long rallies.
Key Individual Performances
Several Lady Yellow Jackets made their mark in the season opener:
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Maliyah Spencer led the team with 8 kills, hitting .278 and adding 3 digs.
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Tahmiah Lawson had 7 kills, providing offensive balance across the net.
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JaNiya Lamar was all over the floor, recording a team-high 12 digs and an impressive 6 service aces.
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Tamia Horton facilitated the offense with 16 assists, while
Zyara Harrision added 7 more.
Defensively, Allen displayed scrappiness and hustle, managing to stay disciplined and minimize errors—particularly in high-pressure late-set moments.
Looking Ahead
The win gives Head Coach Danielle Robinson and the Yellow Jackets early confidence as they prepare for the heart of the SIAC schedule as detailed in Coach Robinson's post game interview:
"I'm extremely proud of the fight our team displayed. This win was truly earned! Earning our first road victory at Claflin, especially with me returning home to CU , made it even more special. Maliyah Spencer, Tahmiah Lawson, and Janaye Sweat stood out at the net, while Janiya Lamar and Naveah Baker anchored the defense. Setters Zyara Harrison and Tamia Horton kept us balanced and in rhythm. I'm beyond proud of these ladies, this was the perfect way to start the season. So excited to see there continued growth this season! With key performances from both returners and emerging talents, Allen appears ready to build on last year's momentum and compete at a high level."
Allen (1–0) returns to action next week with another non-conference tilt versus Livingstone before opening SIAC play later this month.
