Salem, Va. — September 6, 2025 — The Carolina University Bruins wrapped up Day Two of the Maroon Classic with a split, falling to Methodist University 3–1 in the afternoon match before responding with a dramatic five-set victory over N.C. Wesleyan in the evening.

In the opener, the Bruins battled Methodist tightly in each frame but came up short (23-25, 25-23, 23-25, 20-25). Carolina was led by Karli Totel, who tallied 13 kills and 14.5 points, while Kammie Naude added 11 kills with an efficient .364 hitting percentage. Setter Syvannah Poore distributed 28 assists and libero Kai Horta anchored the back row with 22 digs.

The Bruins regrouped in the afternoon and secured a thrilling five-set win over N.C. Wesleyan (25-18, 19-25, 25-20, 14-25, 15-10). Jordan Connolly and Naude powered the offense with 12 and 11 kills respectively, while SarahElizabeth Samuels contributed 11 kills of her own. Poore once again directed the attack with 27 assists, and Horta was outstanding defensively, recording 27 digs. Carolina finished with 61 team kills, showing heart and determination after dropping the fourth set.

Head Coach Chelsea Jones praised the team's response:

"We showed great grit today. After a tough loss to Methodist, our players bounced back with energy and determination against N.C. Wesleyan. That kind of resilience is what we'll need as we move deeper into the season."

Carolina University now stands at 4–4 overall and will look to carry the momentum forward as they host a quad match on Friday, September 12, 2025. Livingstone, Johnson & Wales, Spartanburg Methodist, and Carolina University will  compete inside Williams Gymnasium on Friday, September 12, 2025.