ATLANTA, GA | In Coach Deshaun Blake's debut as head coach, the Morehouse Maroon Tigers dropped their first match of the season in a hard-fought three-set contest against the Talladega Tornadoes, 0-3. The match against the NAIA opponent, played on January 31, 2025, at the Frank L. Forbes Arena in Atlanta, saw Morehouse struggle with consistency, but the team showed flashes of promise against a tough Talladega squad.
Set One: Morehouse Shows Fight but Comes Up Short
Set one began with Morehouse falling behind early, as the Tornadoes quickly capitalized on several service errors by the Maroon Tigers. Despite being down, Morehouse showed resilience, with Aidan Pullian contributing several strong kills, including a key play to bring the score to 8-6. However, Talladega's offense proved too strong. The Tigers kept the score within reach but ultimately fell, 25-20. The opening set featured a solid attack rate for Morehouse, though they were outgunned by Talladega's offensive depth.
Set Two: Talladega's Momentum Continues
In set two, Talladega continued to build momentum, overpowering the Maroon Tigers with strong kills and an aggressive serving game. The set was marred by multiple errors for Morehouse, which hindered their ability to keep up with the Tornadoes' pace. Morehouse had a few flashes of brilliance, especially from Daniel Allen and Pullian, who both contributed key kills, but Talladega's aggressive blocking game and effective serves stifled Morehouse's offense. The set concluded with Talladega taking it 25-18, giving them a commanding 2-0 lead in the match.
Set Three: A Strong Fight, but Talladega Clinches the Win
The Maroon Tigers came out with determination in set three, keeping the score close throughout. Morehouse's defense, especially by Myles Tucker and Michael Bloodworth, showed improvement as they limited Talladega's attacks. However, Talladega's resilience and ability to capitalize on every opportunity ultimately sealed the match. Despite a strong performance from Allen, who contributed key kills, the Tornadoes managed to edge out Morehouse in a tightly contested final set, 26-24.
Team and Individual Stats:
- Total Points: Morehouse – 62, Talladega – 77
- Kills: Morehouse – 26, Talladega – 41
- Blocks: Morehouse – 10, Talladega – 8
- Aces: Morehouse – 2, Talladega – 6
- Digs: Morehouse – 28, Talladega – 33
Key Players:
- Daniel Allen: Led the team with 9.5 points, including 7 kills and 1 block.
- Aidan Pullian: Contributed 9 points with 6 kills, 3 blocks.
- Myles Tucker: Led the defense with 8 digs.
- Jamar Shackleford Jr.: The team's primary setter, providing 21 assists and contributing defensively with 9 digs.
Despite the defeat, Coach Blake can take positives from the effort, particularly the team's defense and the individual performances of key players. The Maroon Tigers will look to bounce back in their next match, as they hit the road, but stay in the metro, to face another NAIA, in Life University. The match is set to begin at 5PM on SAturday, February 8. For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.
