The University of New Mexico Lobos were starving for a win after nine consecutive volleyball losses, breaking their losing streak in four sets against the Nevada Wolf Pack on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 7.
Head Coach Jon Newman-Gonchar said the results proved the team’s grit.
“This team has had a challenging past few weeks, but they have never backed down,” Newman-Gonchar said. “We can’t wait to do it again.”
In the first set, the Lobos and the Wolf Pack were at each other's throats, with both teams answering points scored. After Nevada gained momentum in the set, the Lobos ultimately fell, with the set ending 25-27.
After the close loss, the Lobos started the second set strong. The Lobos left Nevada to scramble after cornering them 7-0, but they allowed a late comeback by Nevada. The Lobos won the set 25-20.
In the third set, the Lobos needed to take the lead. They did exactly that, with the help of outside hitters Kialah Jefferson and Jada Bouyer, ending the set 25-12.
Both athletes led the match as UNM’s scoring leaders. Jefferson saw a total of 14 kills, three aces and 11 digs. Bouyer helped seal the team’s fate with 12 kills and kept the Wolf Pack at bay with 10 blocks on the court.
Newman-Gonchar attributed the team’s success to athletes like Bouyer and Jefferson, who both played well under pressure.
“Tonight we saw huge performances from Kialah and Jada,” Newman-Gonchar said. “Both players did a fantastic job seeing the block and attacking the open space on the court; it ultimately helped us win.”
The Lobos left the Wolf Pack stunned after the Lobos finished them off, winning the fourth set 25-22.
Ultimately, the Lobos won the game. Newman-Gonchar said he was optimistic about the team's next match against Mountain West rival Utah State, for which the team had already started preparing.
“The preparation for every opponent is something we take very seriously,” Newman-Gonchar said. “We can’t wait for Saturday.”
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With this win, the Lobos moved to 10-13 on the season.
Izabella Kubiak-Reseigh is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. She can be reached at sports@dailylobocom or on X @kubiakizabella
