BUIES CREEK, N.C. — Norfolk State showed grit in its Campbell Invitational opener on Friday, rallying late and nearly extending the match before dropping a hard-fought 25-11, 25-11, 25-22 decision to UNC Greensboro.
 
The Spartans (0-5) saved their best volleyball for the third frame, going point-for-point with an unbeaten UNCG squad (4-0). Gabrielle Gilbert led the way with seven kills, while Reagan Chisholm anchored the defense with eight digs. Sydney McCree added timely points down the stretch, and Ava Berry sparked momentum with an early third-set kill.
 
Norfolk State traded points early, battling to a 5-5 tie before UNCG created separation with a 10-2 run. Gilbert stopped the surge with a kill, but UNCG used a second push to close out the set.
 
The Spartans answered quickly in the second, erasing an 8-2 deficit with a 4-0 run to pull within two. NSU kept pressure on midway through, staying within three at 12-9, before UNCG finished strong.
 
Norfolk State played its best volleyball in the third set, taking a 13-12 lead on a Berry kill. McCree later pulled the Spartans within two at 21-19, and NSU closed the set with three of the final five points before UNCG held on.
 
Norfolk State continues tournament play Saturday with a 1 p.m. matchup against host Campbell, followed by a 4 p.m. contest against Gardner-Webb.
 
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