The University of Hawai’i women’s volleyball team extended its winning streak to three matches in thrilling fashion on Thursday night, opening a two-match homestand with a victory over Portland at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center.
26-24, 21-25, 25-10, 25-27, and 15-11 were the numbers in an absolute classic.
The Rainbow Wahine entered the match facing adversity after announcing that All-Big West outside hitter Tali Hakas will miss the remainder of the season with a right shoulder injury suffered on opening weekend.
Against a veteran Pilots squad featuring four players and three coaches with Hawai’i ties, the Rainbow Wahine rose to the challenge in a back-and-forth battle, leaning on defense to secure the win. Hawai’i finished with 18 team blocks, while libero Victoria Leyva anchored the back row with 17 digs.
Adrianna Arquette dished out 43 assists and recorded 14 digs.
The Wahine improved to 3-4 with the win, while Portland fell to 5-2.
Bri Gunderson and Miliana Sylvester both had 9 blocks, combining for 18 kills and Cha’lei Reid recorded 18 kills of her own.
Hawai’i and Portland close the series Friday at 7 p.m. at Stan Sheriff Center.