Bakersfield Lady Lions earn three-match winning streak, upset Gainesville Lady Bulldogs in Pink Out night last week
Photo/Bakersfield School The Bakersfield Lady Lions team recently held their annual Pink Out Night, an event dedicated to supporting community members affected by cancer, and raised almost $7,000 which was donated to Natasha Crites, a Bakersfield High School family member currently battling cancer. Members of the team are, from left, (front row) Shiloh Bean, Ellie Wells, Lily Williams; (second row) Shaniah Foster, Amberlyn Murray, Nikki Enos; (third row) Coach Rachel Dewey, Kelsey Cotter, Lexi Clarkson, Marlee Maynard, Aubrey Luna, Eden Cotter, Keely Stevens and Coach Suzanne Monatague.
Photo/Karla Smith Bakersfield High School senior Keely Stevens was a key to Thursday night’s victory over Gainesville said Lady Lions coach Suzanne Montague. Stevens led with 20 kills and had key points late in the third and fourth sets to seal the win.
The Bakersfield Lady Lions extended their winning streak to three matches Thursday night with a thrilling four-set victory over the Gainesville Bulldogs, closing out their final home match of the season in front of a packed, pink-clad crowd.
Bakersfield’s offense was on fire from the opening serve. Senior Keely Stevens led the charge with 20 kills, hammering home key points late in the third and fourth sets to seal the win. Junior Eden Cotter added 15 kills, showcasing steady leadership and strong front-row play. The team combined for 14 aces, with nearly every player contributing to the surge from the service line.
“This was one of those matches where everyone stepped up,” said Coach Montague. “The girls played with heart, unity and purpose — and it showed.”
The Lady Lions came out strong winning the first set and then the Lady Bulldogs charged back to win the second set. The Lady Lions answered back winning the next two sets, capitalizing on sharp serves and aggressive net play. The victory marks a major upset over rival Gainesville and a high-energy finale to the team’s home schedule.
Nearly $7,000 raised
Adding to the night’s emotion, the match doubled as the program’s annual Pink Out Night, an event dedicated to supporting community members affected by cancer. Between donations, concessions and special fundraising activities, the Lady Lions and their fans raised nearly $7,000 for Natasha Crites, a Bakersfield High School alumna currently battling cancer.
The Lady Lions now head into the final stretch of their season facing the Dora Falcons in the District Tournament on Thursday at Winona High School.
“They are going forward with momentum, confidence and a strong sense of purpose, proving once again that Bakersfield volleyball is built on both talent and heart,” said Coach Montague.