Valkyries Close Out Home Finale with Four-Set Victory over Atlanta
ORLANDO, Florida, May 1, 2026. - Following a five-set win over Grand
Rapids on Saturday, the Orlando Valkyries carried that momentum into
their final home match of the 2026 season, defeating the Atlanta
Vibe in four sets (25-16, 25-18, 21-25, 25-19).
Orlando established control early with an efficient offensive
performance, finishing the match hitting .267 compared to Atlanta’s
.119. It marked the Valkyries’ highest hitting percentage since
March 19, signaling one of their most complete attacking
performances in the second half of the season.
Brittany Abercrombie led all players with 18 points, recording 14
kills on a .314 clip while continuing to be a steady presence on
both sides of the ball.
At
the net, the Valkyries delivered a dominant defensive showing,
setting a new franchise record with 18 total blocks in a four-set
match. Kaz Brown anchored the effort with a match-high five blocks,
helping disrupt Atlanta’s offensive rhythm and force the Vibe into
tough attacking situations throughout the match.
“I’m
so proud of this group for the energy and effort they brought in our
final home match,” said head coach Amy Pauly. “Their discipline at
the net and ability to take smart swings really made the difference
tonight.”
Atlanta, playing without leading scorer Leah Edmond, turned to
Taylor Smith to carry the offensive load. Smith finished with a
team-high 15 points, including 13 kills.
With
only one match remaining in the 2026 season, the Valkyries will
travel to Dallas to face the Dallas Pulse on Sunday, May 3.
Atlanta visits the Columbus Fury on Sunday at 2 PM ET for the team’s
final match of the 2026 season. |