CONWAY -- The UAPB volleyball team got their first taste of victory on Saturday as they swept defending Southwestern Athletic Conference champion Jackson State. The Lady Lions improved to 1-9 with the win, just in time for their home opener on Monday night against Philander Smith. Meanwhile, JSU was left seeking their first win, falling to 0-6.

Ashlie Jones paced UAPB with 10 kills. Audre Sherles added nine, while Rachel Hornbuckle and Whitney Harris had seven apiece. Jordan Foyer finished the match with 28 assists, while Courtney Brand led on defense with 15 digs.

After cruising in the opening set 25-12, the Lady Lions would have to battle in the other two. In the second set, UAPB led 17-13 before JSU rallied to tie the set at 19. However, the Lady Lions would never trail in the set. They would go on to reclaim the lead and win the set 25-23.

In the final set, UAPB trailed halfway through and 22-21 late after a kill by Paige Williams of JSU. But, after the two teams exchanged scores down the stretch, a service error gave the Lady Lions a 25-24 lead. Then, Ayanna Parker put the cap on the victory with a service ace, clinching a 26-24 win.