DeKALB — The Kent State University Golden Flashes came out very aggressive in the first set, gaining an 8-3 early. NIU edged closer late in the set, after a monster block by first-year outside hitter Peyton Tilly and sophomore middle blocker Jasmine Kemp making it 18-16.
NIU completed the comeback, winning the first set 26-24 and taking a 1-0 set advantage in the match. First-year outside hitter Kaitlyn Bell led the way with 8 kills and a hitting percentage of .800%.
NIU could not carry over the momentum gained in the first set as Kent State took a 15-7 lead into the media time out.