JERSEY CITY, N.J. — The New Jersey City University women's volleyball team made a stunning comeback to defeat Rutgers-Newark, 3-2 (18-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-22, 15-10), in their NJAC opener on Tuesday night, Sept. 24, at The Golden Dome.

The Gothic Knights (5-7, 1-0 NJAC) showcased impressive teamwork, led by senior outside hitter Brenda Gonzalez (Union City, N.J./Dickinson) with 18 kills. Junior outside hitter Marina Millet shined with a career-high six service aces, while sophomore libero Carly Everett (York, Pa./York Catholic) recorded a team-leading 17 digs. Freshman setter Keyanni Overstreet (Port Arthur, Texas/Sabine Pass) contributed significantly with 27 assists, and sophomore middle blocker Brianna Melanson (South Brunswick, N.J./South Brunswick) made her mark with 3.5 blocks.

Despite outpacing NJCU in kills (46-43), aces (15-10), and assists (43-37), Rutgers-Newark (5-8, 0-1 NJAC) couldn't maintain their early lead. NJCU excelled in blocks (6-4) and digs (75-64), setting the tone for a thrilling comeback.

The Scarlet Raiders took an early lead in the match, surging ahead with a 16-3 run in the first set. They continued their momentum into the second set, but NJCU responded with a strong effort from junior right side Kiki Lugo (Kearny, N.J./Kearny) and sophomore libero Elisabeth Brito (Jersey City, N.J./Union City), narrowing the gap before falling behind 2-0.

The Gothic Knights ignited in the third set, with Millet's kill sparking a decisive 10-2 run, allowing them to secure a vital set. The fourth set was a nail-biter, but two service aces from Millet and key kills from Gonzalez leveled the match at 2-2.

In the decisive fifth set, NJCU came out strong, with Millet leading a 6-1 run. The Gothic Knights maintained their advantage, finishing the set 15-10 to clinch the victory.

Highlights:
- Gonzalez achieved her 500th career kill.
- Millet recorded a career-high six service aces, marking her second double-digit points/digs performance this season.
- Melanson set a personal best with three solo blocks.
- Everett had a season-high five receptions.

Up Next:
The Gothic Knights will host Penn State-Berks on Thursday, Sept. 26, at 7:00 p.m. at the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center.