AUSTIN, Texas — St. Edward's volleyball found its rhythm early, kept its balance late, and never truly let go. The Hilltoppers controlled the net and the tempo in a 3–1 win over Texas-Dallas (25–22, 25–19, 26–28, 25–14) Tuesday night at the Recreation and Athletics Center.
The match had the feel of a team settling into itself. Every rally built on the last — first the long rallies, then the quick points, then the confidence to close.

KELLI FORDING led that charge, her attacks sharp and decisive, finishing with 17 kills on .244 hitting, throwing in two service aces, a block assist, and a solo block for good measure. MIA CLAY provided the counterbalance with 15 kills and three block assists, firing at a .438 clip. 

ADDY BADLEY added 14 kills on .243 hitting, flashing her full range of shots from the corners and deep middle while anchoring a middle that combined for eight blocks. CARRINGTON JAIMES brought balance to the attack with 12 kills and three block assists on a team-high .455 hitting percentage.

Setter ALTHEA MORRIS was everywhere — spreading the floor, reading blockers, digging balls that seemed destined for the court — ending the night with 54 assists and eight digs. Behind her, GISELLE OJEDA steadied the back row with 19 digs and crisp passing that kept the Hilltoppers in system.

After taking the first two sets with poise, St. Edward's dropped a tight third in extra points but answered emphatically in the fourth. The Hilltoppers opened on a 9–3 run and never looked back, closing the match on a 25–14 burst that showcased their best rhythm of the season — fluid, fast, confident.

St. Edward's (7–9, 4–7 LSC) returns to action this weekend, carrying both momentum and identity into the back half of conference play.