ST. LOUIS (April 17, 2021) – The Milligan University volleyball team ended its season at its third straight NAIA Women's Volleyball National Championship with a 3-0 (25-13, 25-10, 25-12) loss to Missouri Baptist Saturday in the opening round.

"I am super proud of this team's efforts and congratulate them on making another NAIA national appearance," Head Coach Doneva Bays said after the match. "This year has been challenging to say the least. We endured a split season and playing in a pandemic, but we found a way to persevere and accomplish many goals."

Six Buffs made it into the kill column, with Julia Codispoti (four) and Carley Gregory (three) combining for seven of the team's 12 kills. Sydney Hurd tallied 10 assists, and Layla Grant led the defensive effort with seven digs.

Missouri Baptist started by winning the first two points of all three sets, and in each case never looked back. They were led by two players who tallied 11 kills apiece for their sixth straight win.

"Even though today was not our best performance, I'm proud of what we have accomplished and saddened to see the end come for my seniors. Julia Codispoti, Mackenzie Simpson, Abby Falcone and Sydney Hurd have given so much time and effort to our program and we are thankful for each of them."