Clemson University’s volleyball team secured a 3-1 victory over Western Carolina on Sunday, August 30, 2026, with freshman Maddie Anspaugh delivering a standout performance of 20 kills. This marks the most kills by a freshman in a single match for the Tigers since the 2020-21 season.
The Tigers demonstrated strong defense in the first set, limiting the Buccaneers to a .067 attack percentage and tallying 15 kills to Western Carolina’s seven. Anika Groom led Clemson in the first set with five kills, contributing to a 25-20 win.
Western Carolina narrowly took the second set 25-22, improving their attack percentage to .152 while holding Clemson to .114. The Buccaneers also recorded three blocks compared to Clemson’s one in a set that featured nine tied scores and three lead changes.
Clemson fought back in the third set, securing a 26-24 victory after overcoming a 20-15 deficit. Alyssa Irwin’s solo block for set point ultimately sealed the win for the Tigers, putting them up 2-1 in the match.
Anspaugh continued her impressive play in the fourth set, reaching 20 kills and becoming the first freshman since the 2020-21 season to achieve 18 or more kills in a match for Clemson. The Tigers closed out the match with a 25-20 win in the fourth set.
With this 3-1 win, the Tigers’ season record now stands at 1-1. Key individual performances included Maddie Anspaugh leading in points with 23.0 and kills with 20. Claire Luoma contributed 15 digs, Katherine Sandt recorded 42 assists, Alyssa Irwin had 6 blocks, and Talea Mitchell served 3 aces.
The Tigers are scheduled to host a second tournament at Jervey Gym, beginning September 4 against UNC Greensboro at 6 PM. The Clemson Invitational will also feature matches against East Carolina and App State, with all three games available for streaming on ACCNX.
