MONTGOMERY, Ala. - LaGrange went 2-0 on the first day of the Huntingdon Invitational. The Panthers (4-3) swept both Miles and Pensacola Christian by 3-0 scores.

LC beat Miles 25-14, 25-14, and 25-14 in its first match of the day. The Panthers finished their day by sweeping Pensacola Christian 25-12, 25-11, and 25-17.

"Our ladies stepped on the court today with a fire about them that truly shined during both matches," said Coach Madison Machurek. "We cut down on errors, which was a main focus in our practices the last few weeks. We've also had a huge emphasis on defense.

"We run a different defense than the program has ran in the past, so it's been a challenge for our girls. They showed a lot of growth in both areas today and I'm very proud of them. We look forward to being challenged tomorrow."

Samantha James had eight kills, seven solo blocks, four block assists, and two service aces against Miles. Maggie Ivester matched James' eight kills. Emily Arnold added six kills and five block assists. Mandie Beatty had a team-high 24 digs. Lauren Sanders had 10 assists, seven digs, and two service assists.

In the Pensacola Christian match, Ivester had a team-high eight kills, while Arnold had seven. Jazzlyn Kenner had 10 solo blocks and a block assist. James finished with five kills, four solo blocks, and five block assists. Beatty once again led the team with 21 digs, while Sanders added 10 assists and five digs. Libby Compton had seven digs and eight assists. Madison Correll had five service aces and four kills.

The Panthers face Mississippi University for Women and tournament host Huntingdon on Saturday.