Morgan State Celebrates Homecoming with a Strong Win
On October 12, 2025, Morgan State University made its homecoming special by defeating Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) 3-1. This victory, marked by backdrop excitement in the Hill Field House, was a much-needed boost for the Bears, who had struggled against UMES in their past matches.
Daniela Ferreira was a standout player, contributing 17 kills and five service aces. Her performance helped set the tone for the match. “It feels great to finally beat UMES,” said Jada Williams, a junior middle blocker. “We’ve put in the hard work, and it paid off today.”
This win is especially significant as it ended a six-match losing streak against the Hawks. Morgan State now stands at 7-8 overall and 4-1 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), moving them to second place in the standings. In contrast, UMES dropped to 7-12 and tied for third place.
Hanna Nemeth added 12 kills, while Williams had nine. Isabelle Brown came close to a double-double, recording 37 assists and nine digs. Throughout the match, Morgan dominated the first set, cruising to a 25-5 victory—the fewest points scored by any opponent this season.
In the second set, UMES rallied back, initially taking the lead with a 7-1 run. However, Morgan quickly caught up, showcasing impressive teamwork. The Bears took the set 25-20, mainly with key plays from Nemeth.
The third set saw UMES fight back, spurred by Nkemjika Ikemefuna, who helped spark a comeback. Though Morgan had the upper hand in the early stages of the match, UMES capitalized on errors to win the set 25-21.
The final set was tightly contested. Morgan took an early lead, but UMES kept it close. With the support of a lively home crowd, Morgan pulled ahead, finishing strong with a kill from Williams to seal the match.
Coach Xiomara Ortiz expressed her pride in the team’s performance. “It’s fantastic to represent Morgan State and our culture,” she said.
As the Bears look toward their next match against crosstown rivals Coppin State on October 17, they aim to extend their winning streak. Coppin State, who is currently leading the MEAC with a record of 6-0, will provide stiff competition.
Recent Trends in College Volleyball
College volleyball has seen increased attendance and interest in recent years. According to recent NCAA statistics, the average attendance for division I games rose by over 10% last season, highlighting the growing support for teams across the nation. Social media has played a significant role in this surge, with fans actively engaging in discussions and sharing highlights, making college sports more accessible and entertaining.
As Morgan State continues to build momentum, it is clear that the community’s support and the team’s dedication will be crucial in their upcoming challenges.
