SAN DIEGO, Calif. – 21 months after hoisting the NCAA National Championship trophy the No. 3 Yotes were finally able to take the court on Thursday afternoon, and it looked a lot like what CSUSB Volleyball fans have become accustomed to, winning.
 
The Yotes moved past No. 22 Regis 3-1 at the Seaside Invitational on the campus of Point Loma, a rematch of the 2019 NCAA Semifinal match that CSUSB won by the same count.  Leading the way with 18 kills hitting .441 was the reigning National Player of the Year Alexis Cardoza.  Joining her were returning middle blockers Jalyn Hayes and Lydia Morohunfola with seven and six kills respectively. 

"It was great to see our team back out on the court doing what they love to do," head coach Kim Cherniss said.  "Alexis was such a smart hitter in today's match! She took the big settings when they were there, but even more impressive was her location and control when we weren't as crisp on our first two contacts. Also, Marlee Nunley was fantastic running the 5-1. Our middles started a bit slow, but by mid-match they were really having a big impact on the match. Our focus is completely on getting better each match, but it definitely feels good to start with a win against a great opponent."
 
CSUSB hit .282 as a team, but forced Regis into hitting .140, taking the first, second, and fourth sets.  The Yotes were strong on the defensive end with 57 digs, led by 13 from Leilia To'omalatai and 12 from Marlee Nunley.  Joining on the attack was returner Asia Clarke with 10 kills to go along with 11 digs.  Nunley ran the offense with 34 assists and newcomer Melissa Garciglia added three kills.
 
The Yotes continue a busy opening weekend tomorrow morning with Simon Fraser at 9:30 am.  Live links can be found on CSUSBAthletics.com.