DECATUR, Miss. — The East Central Community College volleyball team advanced to the NJCAA Region 23 Semifinals after defeating Itawamba Community College, 3-1, Wednesday night at Founders Gymnasium. After dropping the opening set 25-22, the Warriors bounced back to win three straight (25-14, 25-14, 25-17), securing their first postseason victory in program history.

Cecilia Hikari-Hosaka led the Warriors with 18 kills, three aces, and 12 digs, while Ainslee Copeland added 11 kills and 13 digs. Setter Anna Wojtczak directed the offense with 40 assists and 13 digs to help guide the team's balanced attack. Emily Truan finished the match with 25 digs, which led all players on the court. Head coach Patrick Hiltz said the group is "happy and wanted to play Jones" as they prepare for the next challenge. East Central will now travel to Ellisville on Saturday, Nov. 1, to take on Jones College — the No. 1 team in the MACCC and No. 24 nationally in the NJCAA — with first serve set for 2 p.m.