KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Stephens College fought hard but came up short in a four-set battle against Avila University (17-25, 25-22, 19-25, 20-25) on Wednesday night at Mabee Field House. Despite the loss, the Stars celebrated two significant career milestones, as Jamie Russell reached 1,013 collegiate career kills and Izzy Benson set a new program record with 1,132 career digs.

After dropping the first set 17-25, the Stars bounced back to win the second set 25-22, thanks in part to Russell, who tallied eight kills in the match. Russell's offensive performance brought her collegiate career total to 1,013 kills, a major achievement for the senior middle hitter.

Stephens continued to battle in the third and fourth sets, but Avila's attack proved too strong. The Eagles' top hitter recorded 15 kills, playing a pivotal role in helping close out the match. Avila posted a .170 hitting percentage compared to the Stars' .079, despite Stephens' strong defensive effort.

Benson, a senior outside hitter, led the defensive front with 19 digs, bringing her career total to 1,132 and setting a new program record for Stephens College. Benson's steady play, alongside Jatnna Pena-Perez's match-high 40 digs, kept the Stars competitive throughout the contest.

Amari Branch-Autman and Makenna Bollinger contributed eight kills apiece, while Branch-Autman added three blocks. Emma Whitson ran the offense, dishing out 24 assists.

With the loss, Stephens (2-9) will look to rebound in their upcoming home match on Friday, Sept. 13, at 6 p.m. as they host Student Appreciation Night in Silverthorne Arena.