After facing some tough competition in the preseason, the Pierce Bears commenced Sacramento Valley League play with two five set matches as they outlasted Paradise at home last Tuesday, but fell on the road to East Nicolaus.
Facing Paradise, the Bears took the first two sets easily 25-14, 25-15, but dropped the next two 22-25, 20-25, before taking care of business in the final set 15-7.
Jamie Figueroa posted a double-double with 16 assists and 15 digs to lead the Bears who also had libero Macey Myers make 12 digs in the win.
Against the Spartans, Pierce turned in a roller coaster performance that ultimately saw them fall 14-25,25-15,21-25,25-22,10-15.
Jayliana Valencia hit at a .323 clip and recorded 13 kills to pace the Bears, with Jocelyn Medina landing nine kills and Kallie Stassi pitching in with seven while Figueroa handed out 21 assists.
For the busy back row, Myers made 24 digs and 31 service receptions, with Medina accounting for 14 digs and 29 receptions.
Up next for Pierce (4-12, 1-1) was Willows on Sept. 14, Hamilton City the following evening, and Winters tonight to round out the week. ■
