The #10 Cumberlands Patriots volleyball team etched their names in the program record books Saturday afternoon, dismantling Freed-Hardeman 3-0 (25-15, 25-9, 25-17) to claim their 20th consecutive victory. The win officially sets a new program record for the longest winning streak and marks their 15th straight sweep, and 48 straight sets, continuing an absolutely unprecedented run of dominance.

The Patriots put on a masterclass on both sides of the ball, hitting a blistering .452 on offense while putting up a defensive brick wall that held the Lions to a staggering -.056 hitting percentage for the match.

Set 1: Setting the Tone

The Patriots established control early and never looked back. With the score tied 4-4, a serving run by Brynnley Bryant sparked a 5-0 burst that included two kills from Sara Zampedri to give UC a lead they would not relinquish. The balanced attack was too much for the Lions, as kills from Kara Gipson and Elaina Fischer helped the Patriots cruise to a 25-15 victory.

Set 2: A Defensive Masterpiece

The second frame was one of the most dominant sets of the season for Cumberlands. The Patriots’ front line was simply impenetrable. After an early kill by Freed-Hardeman, a 7-0 run behind the serving of Davey Slaughter gave the Patriots a commanding 8-1 lead. Later, with the score 13-7, Sara Zampedri took over from the service line, leading an incredible 11-0 run that included multiple blocks from Kara Gipson and Elaina Fischer. The defensive clinic resulted in a lopsided 25-9 win.

Set 3: Closing Out History

With history on the line, the Patriots sealed the record-breaking victory with authority. The Lions kept it close early, but Cumberlands pulled away midway through the set. Leading 10-9, kills from Kara Gipson and Sara Zampedri started to build the lead. The Patriots closed the match in style, scoring the final four points, capped by a service ace from Davey Slaughter to start the celebration.

Patriots By The Numbers

  • The Brick Wall: Kara Gipson was a force at the net, leading the dominant defensive effort with a season-high 7 blocks.
  • Offensive Firepower: Sara Zampedri once again led the attack, putting down a match-high 12 kills on an impressive .476 hitting percentage.
  • All-Around Excellence: Brynnley Bryant and Elaina Fischer were major contributors, each adding 8 kills to the balanced offense.
  • Setting the Stage: Savanah Jolly was masterful once again, directing the offense with 33 assists while adding 5 digs.
  • Defensive Anchor: Davey Slaughter led the back row with 8 digs and also tied for the team lead with 2 service aces.

Up Next

The record-breaking Patriots will look to extend their historic streak in their next matchup.

Final Score: Cumberlands 3, Freed-Hardeman 0

Patriots Nation Player Of The Game

Sara Zampedri

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