CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. – The Bluefield University men's volleyball team opened the 2026 season Friday afternoon at the Mid-South Crossover, facing Oakland City University and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in a pair of neutral-site matches at Powell and Gosser Gymnasiums.

Game One: Oakland City 3, Bluefield 0 (25–21, 25–14, 25–9)
BU began the season against an Oakland City squad that entered the matchup unbeaten. The Rams stayed within striking distance in the opening set, battling through several long rallies before Oakland City pulled away late to take the frame 25–21. Momentum shifted in the second as Oakland City increased its offensive efficiency, limiting Bluefield's opportunities and winning 25–14. The third set saw Oakland City continue its strong play at the net, closing out the match 25–9.

Mason Lloyd led BU offensively with 13 kills on .333 hitting, while Jadyn McCrory added three kills and three service aces. Benedict Somes directed the offense with 18 assists, and Cesar Bitanga anchored the back row with a team-high six digs.

Game Two: Saint Mary-of-the-Woods 3, Bluefield 0 (25–18, 25–14, 25–18)
In the second match of the day, Bluefield took on Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. The Rams competed early in the opening set, keeping pace before the Pomeroys pulled away late for a 25–18 win. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods controlled the middle in the second set, holding BU to a .077 hitting percentage to take a 25–14 advantage. The third set featured several lead changes, but the Pomeroys closed strong to secure a 25–18 victory.

Lloyd once again paced the Rams with 12 kills, while Zaire Davis contributed five kills. Richard Cisneros and Mamadou Dieng added key points at the net, and Somes totaled 12 assists. Defensively, Bitanga recorded three digs and Jonathon Rudder chipped in two as Bluefield worked to extend rallies.

BU will return home this Saturday for a pair of matches inside the Dome Gymnasium, hosting Lynchburg at 11:00 a.m. before closing the day against Rio Grande at 5:00 p.m.