Sam Houston State Bearkat volleyball team lost to the University of Central Arkansas Bears in straight sets 25-23, 25-22, 25-12.

The Bears are now 1-1 in the Southland Conference (12-1 overall).

Though the Bearkats (1-1 SLC, 5-8 overall) fought  tooth and nail with a total of 10 ties and three lead changes, the Bears maintained their composure and won the first two sets to take a 2-0 lead.

They scored three straight points to open up the third set and did not look back as they easily took the third set to win the match.

Devene Wells-Gibson led the Bearkats with 11 kills, 7 digs and two blocks while Kaylee Hawkins contributed with 6 kills and 4 digs.

Jessica Hays led the Bears with 19 kills, 7 digs and an ace.

The Bearkats next opponent will be against their archrival Stephen F. Austin in Nacagdoches on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.