DURHAM, N.C. – The FIU volleyball program dropped its season opener in straight sets to Houston on Friday afternoon in the opening match of the Duke Tournament.
 
Junior Courtney O'Brien and newcomer Emma Beretich led the Panthers offensively, each recording eight kills. Sophomore Jillian Huckabey added seven kills, while Magda Stambrowska and Kira Givans chipped in six apiece. Stambrowska also anchored the defense at the net with a team-high four blocks.
 
At setter, sophomore Kaylee Musick made the start and dished out a team-best 21 assists, with Savannah Cook contributing 12. Defensively, senior Mandi Morioka, a Preseason All-Conference selection, collected a team-high 13 digs.
 
FIU fell by set scores of 25-18, 25-23, and 26-24. The Panthers pushed Houston to the wire, including holding a 19-16 advantage in the final frame before the Cougars rallied to secure the match and their first win of the 2025 season.

UP NEXT
FIU takes on the Bryant Bulldogs on Saturday at 2 p.m, from Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, N.C. It will be streamed live on ACC Network Extra.

SOCIAL MEDIA
Fans are encouraged to follow the Panthers on Instagram (@FIUVolleyball), Twitter (@FIUVolleyball), and Facebook (Facebook.com/FIUVolleyball) for all the latest Women's Volleyball news. General athletic news can also be found at @FIUSports on Facebook and @FIUAthletics on Twitter and Instagram.