Marauders Season Ends in Five-Set Thriller at SIAC Championships

The Central State Marauders left every ounce of heart on the court, but their postseason run came to a close Thursday morning in a tightly contested five-set battle against Savannah State in the first round of the SIAC Championships. CSU pushed the Tigers to the brink before falling 3–2 (20–25, 25–17, 14–25, 25–17, 12–15) inside the Arthur R. Outlaw Recreation Center in Mobile, Alabama.

The match showcased the grit that defined CSU's season. After dropping a narrow first set, the Marauders punched back with a dominant second frame. Savannah State responded in the third, but CSU refused to fade—forcing a decisive fifth set with a resilient 25–17 win in the fourth. The final set stayed tight throughout before SSU made a late push to edge out the victory.

Stat Leaders

Central State was powered by a standout performance from Maya Hendricks, who delivered a match-high 20 kills, adding 3 aces, 2 blocks, and 9 digs in her all-around effort.
Braelynn Reese added 13 kills and a team-best 5 blocks, while Jasmin Churchill chipped in 6 kills.

At the service line, the Marauders were electric, led by Zahra Coates, who stunned the Tigers with 7 aces, followed by Hendricks (3) and Azariah Crosby (2).

Crosby also directed the offense with 19 assists, while Nevaeh Brownlee added another 18 assists. Defensively, Taylor Hughes anchored the back row with 15 digs, joined by Johanna Holston (13).

A Season to Be Proud Of

Central State closes the season at 16–11 overall and 12–7 in SIAC play, continuing the program's upward trajectory and showcasing a group that grew tougher, more connected, and more competitive every step of the way.

This team fought. They represented. And they earned every bit of respect they gained across the conference.