PHOENIX – Alasha Colon reached a career milestone recording the 1,000th career dig of her collegiate career as the LIU women's volleyball team began the Grand Canyon University Invitational in Phoenix against host Grand Canyon. 

The Sharks hung in tough against the Lopes. They threatened a comeback in both the second and third set, but ultimately fell in three sets (25-8, 25-19, 25-19).
 

"Tonight we had a slow start in a tough environment. It was great to see our team fight the last two sets and show they can compete," said head coach Amable Martinez.
 

Rumur Rouille, an Arizona native who attended high school just under two hours away from Grand Canyon, was one of the best Sharks on the court. She recorded a team high nine points, six kills, and three solo blocks. 

Selina Koç once again led the Sharks in assists, recording 10 and added seven digs on the defensive side of the ball. 

Tiana Brasby made her first career collegiate start and tallied six digs and a service ace for the match. 

Bella Austin recorded the first points of her collegiate career, tallying three kills. 

"This was another amazing learning experience for us in a young season," said Martinez. "Plus we all got to witness Alasha reach her milestone tonight!"

On Saturday afternoon the Sharks will take on Iowa State at 1 p.m. and follow up that match against Arizona at 7 p.m. Both matches will be streamed on ESPN+ .