PORTALES, N.M. - Eastern New Mexico University's volleyball team ended a five-match losing streak with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over New Mexico Highlands University on Monday at the Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena. The Greyhounds defeated the Cowgirls for the first time since 2016, winning with set scores of 26-24, 14-25, 25-22, and 26-24.

ENMU's win not only snapped their own five-match losing streak but also halted New Mexico Highlands' three-match winning streak, it's longest win-streak since 2013.

"I'm incredibly proud of how our team responded today," said ENMU head coach Karli Bustos. "After dropping our last five matches, they showed resilience and determination. Our conference prepares us for tough matches like this one, and today we proved we can compete with anyone when we execute our game plan."

In the opening set, the Greyhounds established their presence with a narrow 26-24 win, setting the tone for a competitive match. Despite dropping the second set 14-25, ENMU regrouped effectively to claim the third set 25-22 and sealed the victory with another 26-24 win in the fourth set.

The Greyhounds' offense was led by junior outside hitter Sophia Valdez, who recorded a team-high 17 kills on a .167 clip.

McKenzie Hart delivered an efficient performance with nine kills, a team-high six blocks, and a .238 hitting percentage, while Addison Bartlett contributed 12 kills with a .091 attack percentage and ten digs.

Amya Speller added nine kills with an impressive .333 hitting efficiency and three blocks, providing a consistent offensive threat throughout the contest for the Greyhounds.

ENMU's defense was anchored by libero Imahni Brown, who recorded 21 digs and delivered the match-winning point. Following a service error from the Cowgirls, Brown's serve hit the top of the tape and dropped in front of the Cowgirls', sealing the victory in dramatic fashion. Brown also contributed two service aces to the winning effort.

Violeta Flores orchestrated the Greyhounds' attack with 28 assists, while also adding a team-high three service aces and four digs. Catalina Gutierrez provided additional support with a 19 assist, 13 dig double-double of her own, her first of the season.

New Mexico Highlands was led by Arianna Jamerson with 17 kills and Jaylee Gonzales with six kills.

The victory improves Eastern New Mexico's overall record to 4-13 (1-5 LSC) while New Mexico Highlands falls to 7-10 (2-4 RMAC).

ENMU will look to build on this victory when they travel to face Sul Ross State in Alpine on Thursday, October 16, at 5 p.m. MT, followed by a match in Silver City at Western New Mexico on Saturday, October 18, at 2 p.m. MT.