MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Life University women's volleyball team opened its SSAC postseason run Thursday afternoon, facing William Carey and Point University in the first day of pool play at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl. Despite competitive stretches, the Running Eagles were unable to secure a victory, falling in straight sets to both opponents.

Match 1: William Carey 3, Life U 0

In the early match, Life U dropped three close sets to William Carey (25–18, 25–19, 25–19). The Running Eagles stayed within striking distance in each frame but couldn't slow down the Crusaders' balanced offense.

Paola Vega and Jade Watson paced the attack with seven kills each, while Esosa Ehigiator added five kills on a .400 hitting percentage. Sydney Gonzales was active at the net with 2.5 blocks, and setter Gabriela Rivera lead the offense with 18 assists and seven digs. Reign Jarin and Victoria Davenport matched Rivera's defensive effort with seven digs apiece.

As a team, Life U recorded 30 kills and 34 digs while William Carey hit .198 to earn the sweep.

Match 2: Point 3, Life U 0

In the afternoon match, the Running Eagles battled hard but ultimately fell in three sets to Point University (25–17, 25–21, 25–18). Life U's offense found rhythm midway through the match as Vega and Teria Campbell led the charge, combining for 14 of the team's 27 kills. Vega hit .300 with eight kills, while Campbell added six on a .308 clip.

Rivera finished with 10 assists and two aces, and Mia Garcia made an impact from the service line, collecting a team-high five aces to go along with five digs. Laci Thompson and Jarin steadied the back row, combining for 12 digs.

The Running Eagles will close out pool play Friday against Loyola at 12 p.m. EST.