by Jordan Gonzalez

The UTPA Bronc volleyball team lost the last home game of the season against New Jersey Institute of Technology Highlanders Monday night.

Early in the game the Broncs took a lead of 19-12 and managed to win the first set 25-22.

The Broncs continued to play well into the second set taking an 11-4 lead, but the Highlanders answered with a 13-1 run and eventually won the set 25-20.

Down in the third set 23-19, the Broncs attempted to mount a comeback but lost after getting as close as 24-23. The Highlanders got the match point to win the set.

Tied in the middle of the fourth set 10-10, the Broncs went on a 9-2 run that helped them win the set 25-23.

The Broncs took the lead in the fifth set 4-0, but the Highlanders came back, winning the set 15-12.

Juri Franzen tied the UTPA Bronc volleyball record for 20+ digs matches with 15. Michelle McNamee led the Broncs with 16 kills. Diara Reynolds had a double-double of 13 kills and 11 digs. Nycole Masake recorded a match-high 51 kills.

The Broncs are looking to comeback from their loss when they visit Chicago State University on Thursday 7 p.m.