SIOUX FALLS – The University of Denver women's volleyball team earned its 12th sweep of the season against South Dakota State on Friday night, taking down the Jackrabbits by scores of 25-18, 25-16 and 25-18.

The Pioneers improved to a 21-1 (10-0 Summit League) mark, pushing their win streak to 19 matches. Sophomore Lydia Bartalo led the team to victory with her 50th ace on the year, breaking the Denver record for aces in a single season (previously 48 – Lisa Hunter, 2003).

It was great to get everyone on our roster match experience and develop the depth on our team," said head coach Tom Hogan. "We look forward to return to Denver where we will face a very tough opponent in Omaha on Sunday."

Pioneer Performers:
Lydia Bartalo, the newest DU record holder, tallied seven of the Pioneers' 11 aces. The Colorado native also tallied eight kills, five digs, one block and a .375 hitting percentage against SDSU.

"Lydia is executing well at the service line," said Hogan. "The quality of her serve is impressive, and she continues to improve her consistency."

Katarina Marinkovic came up big offensively with 10 kills, and defensively with two digs and three blocks. Emma Willis was by her side throughout the game, earning a .714 hitting percentage with five kills.

Ellie Anderson and Andrea Eddy shared the top spot for assists this match, each totaling 16, and Macy Carrabine continues to hold down the defense for DU, leading with 10 digs.

Set Transitions:
The Pioneers wrapped up set two on a high note, going on a seven-point run against the Jackrabbits. Their momentum didn't slow heading into the third, with Denver accumulating the first eight points of the set. It wasn't until a block error by the Crimson and Gold when SDSU was able to earn its first point of the set.

Let's Talk Numbers:
Denver totaled 41 kills in 92 attempts, 39 assists, 11 aces, 33 digs, 12 blocks and a .283 hitting percentage on Friday evening. The Jackrabbits were only able to accumulate 23 kills and a .039 hitting percentage, their lowest in the 2018 season.

What's Next for DU:
The Pioneers will head home to Denver where they'll host Omaha on Sunday, Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. MT.

TICKETS: 
Single-game tickets for the 2018 Denver volleyball season are also on sale, and can be purchased here.
 
PIONEER MOVEMENT: 
Fans interested in making a donation to the volleyball program can do so by clicking here. Your contribution will make a direct impact on the success of YOUR Pioneers. Thank you in advance for your unwavering support of our student-athletes and their quest for excellence.