UNCW volleyball rallies past Coastal Carolina in four sets as Sam Vanda records career-high 20 kills

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The UNCW volleyball team closed out its nonconference schedule with a comeback victory Wednesday night, defeating Coastal Carolina in four sets at Hanover Hall. The Seahawks entered the matchup with a 9-9 record, looking to snap a five-match losing streak against the Chanticleers.

Coastal Carolina came out strong in the opening set, with Natalie Hughes delivering a kill to secure a 25-17 victory. UNCW responded in the second set, as Gaby Zovko connected with Sam Vanda for a powerful kill. The Seahawks went on to take the set 25-19, evening the match at one set apiece.

The momentum continued into the third set, with Zovko playing a key role defensively. She tied her career high with 16 digs as UNCW claimed the set to take a 2-1 lead. Coastal Carolina jumped ahead in the fourth set, but the Seahawks battled back. Zovko continued to set up the offense, including a kill from Nadia Wasilewski, as UNCW completed the comeback to secure the four-set victory.

Vanda led the Seahawks with a career-high 20 kills. Following the match, she spoke about her approach on the court and the team’s determination.

“I’m obviously an undersized hitter, so doing my best to go high off hands and use my height to my advantage, ’cause I feel like a lot of hitters at this level aren’t really used to undersized hitters. We want to be the team that can close out the gym with energy, play under pressure and make those long rallies,” Vanda said.

The Seahawks will now shift their focus back to Coastal Athletic Association play, traveling to face North Carolina A&T on Friday.