Clemson Defeats Virginia in Four

Clemson Defeats Virginia in Four Sets

The Clemson Tigers (14-10, 2-10 ACC) dropped the opening set against the Virginia Cavaliers (10-12, 3-9 ACC), but responded strongly to win the next three sets and finish the match 3-1 on the road in Charlottesville.

Match Summary

Virginia took an early lead in the first set, creating a five-point gap. Clemson narrowed the deficit with kills from Khaya Gordon, Mia Moore, and Mia McGrath. Despite Clemson pulling close after an ace by Claire Luoma and a kill by Nil Okur, Virginia held on to win the set 25-22.

In the second set, Clemson came out aggressively, scoring three quick points through kills by McGrath and Gordon and a solo block by Kate Hansen. Block assists from Nil Okur, Moore, and Gordon helped Clemson build a five-point lead, eventually winning the set 25-20.

The Tigers carried this momentum into the third set, executing runs of three and four points that included Luoma’s second ace of the day, to take control of the match.

Key Players

Khaya Gordon led Clemson with 16 kills.
Mia McGrath added 13 kills.
Mia Moore contributed 12 kills.
Claire Luoma recorded two aces.
Kate Hansen made a critical solo block in the second set.

"Despite cutting into the lead, Virginia didn’t relinquish it to take the opening set, 25-22."

"Blocks proved to be the name of the game in the second as Okur tacked on two block assists alongside Moore and Gordon to take a five-point lead."

The Tigers overcame the initial setback to deliver a strong performance that secured their victory in four sets.

Author’s summary: Clemson rebounded after losing the first set to defeat Virginia 3-1, powered by strong kills and key blocks from their standout players.

Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-03