KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Eastern Oregon University’s senior middle blocker, Kiauna Mack, has been named the NAIA Women’s Volleyball Defender of the Week following an outstanding performance that anchored her team’s defense during a flawless 4-0 run. Mack's exceptional defensive play was a key factor in EOU's victories, including triumphs over two nationally ranked opponents.
Throughout the week, Mack showcased her defensive prowess across 13 sets, amassing an impressive total of 28 blocks, 10 of which were solo efforts alongside 18 assisted blocks. Her impressive average of 2.15 blocks per set exemplifies her ability to disrupt opposing offenses consistently. The middle blocker also contributed 43 kills on the week for an average of 3.31 kills per set.
Mack's defensive highlight came in a commanding 3-0 sweep over No. 24 William Carey, where she was instrumental in recording 11 of the team’s 12 total blocks. Her dominant solo effort held the Crusaders to a negative hitting percentage of -.046 for the match, underscoring her impact at the net.
Beyond her defensive contributions, Mack's presence was felt across all facets of the game. In the match against Montana State-Northern, she contributed six blocks (1 solo, 5 assisted). Her performance against No. 10 Providence (Mont.) was equally impressive, where she also contributed six blocks; however, four of those were solo, while two were assisted. Mack reached double-digit kills for the first time this season against UP with 14 kills in the match and followed that with a 15-kill performance against Taylor (Ind.) the following day.
Mack's consistent performance set the tone for Eastern Oregon's impressive start to the season, as the team dropped only one set throughout the week. Her ability to turn away attacks and create crucial momentum shifts was instrumental in EOU's success.