BRISTOL, Tenn. — King University returned to the Student Center Complex on Friday afternoon for its Conference Carolinas opener but was unable to slow down a steady Barton attack, falling 3–0 (25–21, 25–21, 25–21). The Tornado kept each set within striking distance and generated multiple late pushes, but Barton's efficiency in key moments proved to be the difference. With the loss, King moves to 2–4 overall and 0–1 in league play, while Barton improves to 2–5 (1–0 CC).
Barton Edges Ahead in Set One
The opening frame featured long rallies and tight scoring early, but Barton's balance at the net allowed the Bulldogs to create separation late. Lawson Hink and Ryan Geraci powered the Barton offense with a combined 11 kills in the set, helping the visitors hit .235 as a team.
King produced eight kills in the frame, led by Colton Bueter and Dalton Claiborne, but Barton capitalized on Tornado errors to take the set 25–21.
Tornado Push Back in Set Two
King responded with improved energy in the second set, tying the score 11 times and forcing six lead changes. Alessandro Fermani sparked the offense with aggressive swings on the pin, while setter Joao Pedro Ribeiro kept the attack moving with 20 assists through two sets.
Despite the Tornado's pressure, Barton's front line tightened defensively. Geraci and Hink combined for five blocks in the frame, and the Bulldogs used a late 4–1 run to secure another 25–21 win.
King's Late Rally Falls Short in Set Three
The Tornado delivered their strongest offensive set in the third, posting 11 kills and keeping the score tight throughout. Fermani continued to find success, finishing with a team-high eight kills, while Kellen Woolm added five kills and two blocks.
King stayed within one possession for most of the set, but Barton's consistency in transition — highlighted by Geraci's match-high 12.5 points — helped the Bulldogs close out the sweep with a third straight 25–21 finish.
Barton's Balanced Attack Leads the Way
The Bulldogs hit .157 as a team and showcased depth across the lineup:
- Ryan Geraci: 7 kills, .500 hitting, 9 blocks, 12.5 points
- Lawson Hink: 9 kills, 7 digs, 3 blocks
- Jacob Martinez: 5 kills, 4 blocks
- Sammy DeBilzan: 22 assists, 6 digs
Barton also out-blocked King 26–6, using its size and timing to disrupt the Tornado attack.
Tornado Leaders
Despite the loss, several King players turned in competitive performances:
King finished the match with 26 kills, 37 digs, and six total blocks.
Up Next
King returns to the Student Center Complex next week, hosting Warren Wilson on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 7:00 p.m. The matchup provides the Tornado an opportunity to regroup and build momentum as Conference Carolinas play continues.
