Wildey Gymnasium, Monday, September 7, 2026 — The Deacons’ women once again proved their supremacy, comfortably retaining their junior knockout crown with a straight-sets victory over Phoenix Security Services Carlton.

They closed out the contest 25-20, 25-17, 25-18, with setter Tanaya Stapleton directing the attack and finding willing finishers in Janica Grant, Danielle Evanson, and Xhane Greenidge. Carlton showed flashes of resistance through six-footer Rhea Bryant, supported by Shakera Oliver and Zibiah Osbourne, but struggled to sustain momentum.

Carlton looked competitive in the opening set, yet their lack of a consistent setter and ineffective blocking left them exposed. Deacons’ attackers punished the gaps with authority, and only brief lapses by the champions allowed Carlton to keep the scorelines respectable.