BLUEFIELD, Va. – The Bluefield University volleyball team returned to The Dome on Tuesday night for an Appalachian Athletic Conference matchup against the University of Pikeville.

Despite a competitive start, the Rams were unable to sustain momentum, falling in straight sets (25–21, 25–10, 25–21).

The opening set featured 11 ties and six lead changes as both teams battled for early control. Bluefield built a brief lead midway through behind kills from Morgan Wigg and Rachel Sasson, but Pikeville responded with a late surge to take the frame 25–21.

The Bears carried that momentum into the second set, limiting the Rams to a .033 hitting percentage while capitalizing on their own efficient offense to win 25–10. BU regrouped in the third, keeping pace thanks to strong net play from Sasson and consistent passing from libero Eledy Torres. However, Pikeville's attack remained steady down the stretch, sealing the match with another 25–21 decision.

Wigg led Bluefield with 10 kills on a .368 hitting percentage, while Sasson added seven kills and three digs. Torres anchored the back row with seven digs and three service aces, and setter Katie Voss distributed 12 assists with five digs. Chesed Russell recorded two blocks and a pair of kills, while Ella Gawellek contributed two kills and a block assist.

With the loss, the Rams move to 7-7 overall and 3-7 in AAC play.

BU will look to bounce back October 17, when they host Columbia International inside The Dome Gymnasium. First serve is set for 6:30 p.m.