Perez's Standout Night Leads Tampa Past Florida Southern

TAMPA, Fla. – The Spartans sweep the Moccasins to remain undefeated in Sunshine State Conference play.

Final Score: No. 1 Tampa 3 (1: 25-13, 2: 25-21, 3: 25-16), Florida Southern 0

Records: No. 1 Tampa (17-0, 9-0 SSC), Florida Southern (10-7, 4-5 SSC)

Location: Bob Martinez Athletics Center | Tampa, Fla.

HOW IT HAPPENED:

First Set: The Spartans came out firing to open the match, jumping to an early 8–2 lead after kills from Nathaly Perez and Connor Rahn. Florida Southern struggled to find rhythm offensively, as Tampa held them to a -.167 hitting percentage. Kayla Dondero distributed the ball efficiently with nine assists, while Perez led the attack with six kills in the set. The Spartans closed the set on a 7–2 run to take the opener comfortably. | Score: 25–13 Tampa

Second Set: The Moccasins responded with more energy in the second, keeping the score tight through the midpoint. After a back-and-forth stretch, Tampa broke a 17–17 tie following consecutive kills by Rahn and Jenna Davis. Ana Rivera's steady defense and a late kill from Perez helped the Spartans pull away. Despite Florida Southern's improved hitting, Tampa's blocking at the net made the difference. | Score: 25–21 Tampa

Third Set: Tampa showed its depth and composure to finish off the sweep. Perez continued her standout night, while Mak Carter and Davis combined for several key blocks that shut down Florida Southern's offense. The Spartans' back row, led by Rivera and Rahn, kept rallies alive and limited the Moccasins to only five kills in the frame. A service ace from Rivera and a final kill from Rahn sealed the match. | Score: 25–16 Tampa

INSIDE THE STATS:

• Perez led all players with 16 kills on a .533 hitting percentage.
• Rahn tallied 12 kills and nine digs.
• Dondero recorded 21 assists and seven digs.
• Rivera posted nine digs and added five assists.
• The Spartans totaled 10 team blocks and hit .351 as a team.
• Tampa held Florida Southern to a -.038 hitting percentage overall.