INSTITUTE, W.Va. — West Virginia State University dominated Bluefield State in straight sets (28-26, 25-9, 25-16) Wednesday night at the Walker Convocation Center, powered by an efficient attack led by Hannah Steele's 18 kills.

The Yellow Jackets (5-5, 0-0 MEC) started strong, edging out Bluefield State (2-9, 0-0 CIAA) in a competitive first set that saw 13 ties and seven lead changes. WVSU closed out the set 28-26 with Steele delivering the game-winning kill, assisted by Kiersten Eggleton, who tallied 34 assists in the match.

In the second set, West Virginia State shifted into high gear, limiting the Big Blue to just nine points. WVSU's serve proved to be a powerful weapon, with five service aces in the second set alone. Eggleton and Morgan Caba contributed two service aces each as WVSU cruised to a 25-9 win.

Bluefield State managed to keep pace early in the third set, but a 5-0 run midway through the set gave WVSU the momentum to close out the match. The Yellow Jackets sealed the final set 25-16, with Steele once again delivering key kills.

Maureen Mathews also contributed with 10 kills, while Valencia Wilder led the defensive effort with three blocks. WVSU's defense limited Bluefield State's attack to a .161 hitting percentage, while the Yellow Jackets posted a .369 hitting percentage for the match.

West Virginia State will look to carry this momentum into their next match on Friday, Sept. 20, when they face Clarion in the Atlantic Region Crossover at West Liberty. First serve is scheduled for 3 p.m.