TYLER, Texas – Texas A&M International volleyball (6-10, 5-7 LSC) fell in their first round matchup of the Lone Star Conference Tournament to West Texas A&M (10-3, 9-3 LSC) in a 3-1 decision (20-25, 25-19, 10-25, 17-25).

Junior Mackenzie Catalina led the Dustdevils with a double-double of 19 kills and 13 digs as well as two blocks and an assist. Sophomore Skylar Warde posted 13 kills with two digs. Junior Maison Kosse logged 34 assists with six digs, three blocks, two kills and a service ace. On the defensive end, junior Regina Tijerina dug 25 balls with four assists and a service ace. 

TAMIU came out on fire as they opened on a 5-2 run. WT rallied and fought to tie things at 7-7 and eventually took the lead 12-10. The Dustdevils battled back to retake the lead 13-12 thanks to a 3-0 run. Things grew tight as both squads traded points for the next several rallies. However, the Lady Buffs closed out the frame on an 8-2 run to take the 25-20 decision.

In the second set, it was WT started hot as they took an early 4-2 lead. The Dustdevils fought back and took the lead 7-6. Thanks to a 6-2 run later in the set, they pushed out to a 16-12 advantage. With several more runs, TAMIU was able to hold off the Lady Buffs and take the frame 25-19.

The third set was tight early with four ties. WT was able to take the lead 11-7 with a 7-2 run. A 7-3 run extended their lead to 18-10. The Dustdevils refused to die though as they clawed back to trim the deficit to 19-16. Unfortunately, the Lady Buffs were able hold on for the 25-19 decision.

The fourth set was all WT early as they blasted out to a 14-6 lead, and eventually pushed out to a 20-13 advantage. TAMIU managed to pull within three points at 20-17, but the Lady Buffs closed out the match with five straight points for the 25-17 win.