The Rice volleyball team advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament last week before bowing out against the Austin Regional host, the University of Texas.
The Owls (20-7) defeated the University of San Diego (20-8) 25-20, 25-19, 25-20 in the opening round Dec. 2, then were bested by the No. 2-seeded Longhorns (26-1) 21-25, 23-25, 19-25 the next night.
Rice's victory over San Diego was the second NCAA Tournament triumph in program history. The Owls were led by outside hitter Nicole Lennon, who paced all players with 15 kills and was one of five with two or more blocks, and setter Carly Graham, who added 31 assists — reaching 3,000 for her career — and nine digs.
Against Texas, five Rice players recorded at least five kills, led by Lennon's nine. Graham had 27 assists.
For more, visit RiceOwls.com.