Alone atop the conference peak

Sensing the urgency and significance of this past weekend’s road trip, the Vikings responded in the clutch with two gigantic victories, seizing first place in the Big Sky Conference standings thanks to Weber State’s defeat of Sacramento State on Friday.

After dismantling Northern Colorado on Thursday night, the Vikings (19-6, 12-2) swept Northern Arizona (10-13, 5-8) for the second time this season. Portland State left no doubt against the Lumberjacks, never trailing in three games (30-26, 30-23, 30-24).

The squad has leaned heavily on senior middle blocker Michelle Segun this season, and as the year has progressed she has increasingly made her presence felt at the net. Against Northern Arizona, Segun netted a remarkable .600 hitting percentage with 19 kills and four blocks, demonstrating why she is near the top in the conference in both statistical categories.

Individual play aside, the Vikings’ success stems from superb team defensive play, with Saturday night’s match providing a near-perfect illustration. Northern Arizona’s Kim Babcock entered the game averaging over five kills per contest, enough for second best in the nation. But Portland State’s tenacious defense stymied the senior outside hitter, and Babcock ended up with 10 kills on 35 attempts.

Portland State, the Big Sky leader in nearly every defensive statistical category, was at it again against the Lumberjacks. Led by junior defensive specialist Jacqueline Thomas, who led the team with 18 digs, the Vikings tallied 10 blocks and 46 digs.

In addition to its two wins, Portland State was bolstered by the loss of previous conference leader Sacramento State. If the Portland State can defeat Eastern Washington this Saturday, the conference championship will be determined when the Hornets and Vikings square off at the Stott Center Nov. 17.