Central State Marauders Secure Dominant SIAC Win Over Benedict Tigers
Wilberforce, OH – April 4, 2025 — The Central State Marauders men's volleyball team delivered a powerful performance on their home court at Beacom/Lewis Gym, downing the Benedict Tigers in four sets (25-17, 28-30, 25-16, 25-19) in a Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) clash. The win moves the Marauders to 8-15 overall and 7-4 in conference play, while Benedict slips to 9-9 (4-5 SIAC).
The Marauders came out swinging in front of a small but energized crowd, with a commanding .429 hitting percentage in the opening set. Central State took control early, using a balanced attack and solid defense to pull away for a 25-17 win.
Though the Tigers responded with a gritty effort in set two, eking out a 30-28 win behind 13 kills, it was the Marauders who found their rhythm and retook momentum. Central State's offense exploded in the third set, hitting .333 as they cruised to a 25-16 victory, then sealed the match with a strong 25-19 showing in the fourth.
Leading the charge for Central State was Jaedyn Harris, who notched a match-high 18 kills to go along with an impressive five service aces and two assists. Toulmin Williams IV chipped in 12 kills and five blocks, while Alain Tamo-Noche powered the net with 10 kills and six blocks.
Setter Adam Sheppard was the engine behind the Marauders' attack, dishing out 52 assists, distributing the ball efficiently and keeping the Benedict defense on its heels. On the back row, Benjamin Latham anchored the defense with a match-best 24 digs, helping to neutralize Benedict's big hitters.
The Marauders out-hit Benedict .252 to .054 for the match and dominated in kills (58-36), aces (10-1), and assists (54-32). Their front line also controlled the net with 12 blocks to Benedict's 9.
For the Tigers, Jared Brown led the way with 11 kills and seven digs. Hakan Godoy added 8 kills and 4 blocks, while Kendersley Marcellin contributed 31 assists.
With postseason positioning on the line, this win gives Central State a crucial boost in the SIAC standings. The Marauders will look to build on this momentum as they close out the regular season and prepare for the conference tournament.
