The No. 15 Tennessee Lady Vols had a memorable night at home as they defeated Western Michigan 3-1, thanks to a record-breaking performance from Nina Cajic. Cajic set a program record with 42 kills, leading Tennessee (6-3) to a season-high in blocks against the Broncos (4-6).
“I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed something live as good as what I just watched,” said head coach Eve Rackham Watt.
The match started on a challenging note for the Lady Vols, who lost the first set 26-24. Despite a strong beginning, with an 8-2 lead and a perfect hitting percentage, Tennessee struggled to maintain momentum. After a timeout, Western Michigan rallied back, overcoming the six-point deficit. The Broncos clinched the first set after a late five-point run.
Tennessee’s hitting percentage dropped to .108 in the first set, while Western Michigan finished at .205. Rackham Watt expressed pride in her team’s approach, despite the disappointing outcome.
The Lady Vols rebounded in the second set, winning 25-20. They improved their hitting percentage to .382 and made five blocks, addressing the defensive issues from the first set.
“I really challenged the block defense,” Rackham Watt said. “We’ve got to start taking it personally. Teams are hitting at will against us. We need to be more eager to block balls.”
Cajic played a crucial role in stabilizing the team, contributing both in kills and defensive efforts near the net.
In the tightly contested third set, Tennessee secured a 29-27 victory, hitting at .350. Despite strong defensive plays from Western Michigan, the Broncos struggled to exceed a hitting percentage of .200.
“They pass the ball really well,” Rackham Watt noted. “They have a great setter, which gives them many options. They dug some of our best swings.”
The match culminated in a thrilling fourth set, where Cajic’s record-breaking kill sealed a 33-31 victory for Tennessee. This set was the longest of the season and featured Cajic breaking the previous record of 41 kills, set by Stephanie Ehlers in 1988. Following her final swing, Cajic was surrounded by jubilant teammates.
“I wasn’t aware of how many points I scored,” Cajic said. “It’s crazy, but I didn’t think about it. It has a nice ring to it.”
Tennessee will face Western Michigan again on Friday, September 20.
