This article was originally published prior to June 2, 2013.  Due to a change in content management systems, the initial publication date is not available.

Not only did the Baker volleyball team sweep its home invitational last weekend, but it also continued a 12-game winning streak and improved its record to a nearly perfect 13-1.

The ‘Cats slid by easily in matches against Park University and Ottawa University, beating both teams in three games. However, the highlight of the tournament was the showdown between a tough Oklahoma City University squad, which the ‘Cats have never defeated.

In just three games, BU prevailed in its first-ever victory over the Stars.

“It was one of the most exciting volleyball matches that I’ve ever witnessed in my entire Baker career,” head coach Kathy Allen said. “The statistics are incredible, and considering how good that team is, I was stunned with everybody.”

BU held Oklahoma City to a .196 hitting percentage, and out-hit the Stars 52-33 kills each.

Junior Brooke Pryor had a game-high 17 kills in just three games and freshman Jana Boss, the team’s setter, recorded 38 assists.

Boss said although she feels pressure as a freshman starter, the adjustment and team’s success has helped her through the nerves.

“I definitely do (feel pressure) so far this season and I’ve had to take up so many tricks to the game, but the girls are so nice, so I’ve picked up on them pretty easy,” Boss said.

Baker concluded the tournament with a slight scare from the University of Sioux Falls, which gave the ‘Cats their first lost game in the tournament.

The Cougars rattled BU in game one, prevailing 25-21. However, the ‘Cats fought back to take games two (25-23) and three (25-20) before dropping a very close fourth game, 23-25.

In the end Baker’s offensive power came through for the 15-10 win in game five to seal the match. Allen said the team stayed composed in the end against a very good team.

“Our hitters were getting dug all match and Sioux Falls was doing what they were supposed to,” she said. “The fact that we probably have a better offensive team just wore down their defense in the end.”

Sophomore Brooke Allen led the Wildcats with 31 digs and two service aces. She said the first game was an eye-opener for the team.

“We finally figured out what we needed to do to beat them, and I think that shows a lot about our team that we can change things up,” she said.

For their efforts in the tournament, the Wildcats swept the HAAC honors as Pryor was named player of the week, Boss as setter of the week and Brooke Allen as libero of the week. Pryor and junior Christina Delladio were also named to the Baker Invitational All-Tournament Team. <br/>