TROY, Ala. (August 30, 2026) – The University of North Alabama volleyball team kept its winning streak going after defeating Mercer 3-0 Sunday afternoon in the Troy Invitational from Troy, Ala.
The Lions acquired their first 3-0 start since 2022 after beating the Bears (1-2) in three sets. This is also the first time since 2006 North Alabama opened the season with three sweeps, which came from the UNA classic.
Junior outside hitter Dylann Garner led the team in the Sunday bout, totaling 12 kills. Senior right side hitter Phoebe Reyes Fortunato and junior outside hitter Reese Ricketts were not far behind, totaling 10 kills each. Junior setter Kinslee McGowan had an early season-high after tallying 35 of the 38 assists. Senior libero Ava Martindale also had a solid 19 digs against the Bears. She tallied 51 digs over three games this weekend.
Set 1: UNA 25, Mercer 21
The Lions started the match down quickly at 4-1 but fought back with help from Garner, Reyes Fortunato and freshman Anna Hoffmayer, whose kills tied it at 6-6. After tying the game up multiple times, the Lions had a strong 6-3 run to close the set with Reyes Fortunato delivering the final kill.
UNA had 13 kills this set coming from four different Lions. Five different Lions recorded kills the whole match, accumulating 40 total.
Set 2: UNA 25, Mercer 12
After winning the second set 25-12, it marked the Lions' largest lead of the season. After losing the first point, UNA went on a quick 9-2 run with help from kills from Ricketts, Reyes Fortunato, and Garner to go up 13-6. UNA then gained an 18-9 lead after recording three kills in a row. Mercer only scored three times after this, making for another strong finish from the Lions.
North Alabama recorded 13 kills for the second set in a row, with Ricketts having the most at four. Ricketts, Garner and Reyes Fortunato each had at least three kills in the frame.
Set 3: UNA 25, Mercer 21
The third set came down closer than the last, with scoring going back and forth until UNA took an early 6-5 lead. The Lions kept moving forward, reaching a 13-9 lead. Mercer continued to try and creep in, but UNA created separation after going up 21-16. Mercer made it close at 24-21, but Garner delivered the final blow to secure the win.
Garner led all players this set with seven kills, with Reese throwing up another four kills. McGowan remained the primary setter, recording 14 assists.
COMING UP NEXT
North Alabama will host Alabama A&M for the Lions' home opener at CB&S Bank Arena on Wednesday at 6 p.m.
For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
