The Penn State women’s volleyball team began the NCAA Tournament with a win Friday night, beating an over-matched Niagara team 3-0 (25-12, 25-19, 25-15).

Niagara was able to keep the first set close for a couple of points, but that was all. Penn State went on an 8-1 run midway through the set to go up 18-6 and force a Niagara time-out. The set was sloppy at times, but the Nittany Lions won easily, 25-12. Freshman Ariel Scott led the Nittany Lions with four kills in the set, while freshman Katie Slay was a force at the net with four blocks.

In set two, Niagara came out playing better and took their first lead of the match. The Nittany Lions found themselves down by two for the early portion of the set before tying the score up at nine. After Niagara tied the set at ten, Penn State went on an 8-3 run to take control. Niagara fought hard, but Penn State came out on top, 25-19.

The Nittany Lions surrendered a two-set lead in a loss to Minnesota in the last game they played, but any fears were quickly put out of mind. Penn State took an early lead and held on for the entire set. The Nittany Lions went up 15-6, forcing a Niagara time-out. The teams traded points from then on for a 25-15 Penn State victory.

Seniors Blair Brown and Arielle Wilson were tied at nine for the most kills for the Nittany Lions. Wilson and Slay were impressive and both hit over .600. Senior Alyssa D’Errico also played well, registering two aces and 11 digs.

Next up for Penn State is Virginia Tech in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The teams will meet at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday night at Rec Hall. The winner will advance to the third round against either Tulsa or the Oklahoma vs. Wichita State match.