NORMAL, Ill. – The Billikens earned two wins on opening day of the Redbird Classic, defeating Miami (Ohio) in straight sets before defeating tournament host Illinois State in four. The wins moved SLU to 6-2 on the season. 

Against the RedHawks to begin the day, SLU (6-2) came out firing on all cylinders. Emily Henken led the way with 11 kills while Trinity Luckett matched her career high of 10 and CeCe Fitz eclipsed her career-high with nine kills.  

SLU compiled 10 blocks, one shy of the team's season best of 11 accomplished in its opening match against Mercer, 41 assists and 34 digs. Carlie Rodgers helped lead the Billikens' defensive efforts with 10 digs of her own.  

As a team, the Billikens hit .319 while holding their opponent to .111.  

SLU's second match of the day looked to be a different story. After falling to the host teams in both of the Billikens opening tournaments, Illinois State came out strong. The first set saw four ties and two lead changes, and SLU saw itself down 18-9 before coming from behind to take set one, 25-22. 

After dropping the second set, 25-23, to the Redbirds on their home court, SLU rallied, winning the third set with 12 kills on .184 hitting.  

With the momentum in tow, the Billikens lept out to a 5-0 lead to begin the fourth set, winning it handily, 25-13. 

Against the Redbirds, seniors Henken and Delaney Rice tallied 14 kills apiece, while Jillian Mattingly added 12 of her own. Fitz matched her career high with eight total blocks in the win as Mattingly (5) and Luckett (3) helped the Billikens to their most in a match so far this season (12).

The Billikens will close out the tournament against New Mexico State at 12 p.m. Saturday.  

Friday Results 

Saint Louis 3, Miami (Ohio) 0 (25-19, 25-21, 25-12) 

Sant Louis 4, Illinois State 1 (25-22, 23-25, 25-22, 25-13) 

Friday, Sept. 8, 2023 | CEFCU Arena (Normal, Ill.)