NEW ORLEANS, La. – Alabama State volleyball opened play at the Pelican Invitational and came up short against Providence College on Friday afternoon at the Avron B. Fogelman Arena in the Devlin Fieldhouse, falling 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-14).

The Hornets battled throughout but couldn't overcome a strong offensive showing from Providence, which hit .282 as a team and out-blocked Alabama State 6-2.

Jyriah Morgan led Alabama State with nine kills, while Kaylen Hines added eight kills on a .375 hitting percentage. She also added two blocks and three digs. Sierra Scanlon had 13 assists and picked up a double-double by adding 11 digs, while   Kamrynn Clay added 11 assists and three digs.

Providence (8-3) was paced by Audrey Kocon, who tallied 15 kills on .500 hitting, and Sophia Adkins, who finished with 12 kills. Setter Miller McDonald dished out 32 assists to guide the Friars' efficient attack.

The Hornets will continue action at the Pelican Invitational when they face Tulane on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 3 p.m.