Houston’s setter Kalei Edson (6) looks on during an NCAA college volleyball match against Abilene, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026 in Houston,Texas. | Oscar Herrera/The Cougar
Houston volleyball traveled to Nassau, Bahamas, over the weekend to compete in the Paradise Invitational at the Baha Mar Convention Center on Sept. 12-13. No. 4 Kentucky and No. 11 Purdue each swept the Cougars 3-0.
In their opening match against Purdue, the Cougars improved throughout the three sets, falling 25-18, 25-22 and 29-27. Houston took an early 15-10 lead in the third set and reached set point first at 24-23 with a kill from junior outside hitter Kamille Gibson, assisted by sophomore libero Mattie Casale. However, the Boilermakers closed the gap and won the set 29-27 to complete the sweep.
Gibson, junior outside hitter Lily Barron and freshman libero Cali Reece contributed to the Cougars’ four aces, while junior setter Kalei Edson recorded 30 assists.
Purdue finished with 53 kills and 50 assists, led by redshirt freshman outside hitter Addy Tindall with 22 kills and senior setter Taylor Anderson with 42 assists.
Houston’s Sunday opponent was determined after No. 5 SMU upset Kentucky. The Wildcats went on to defeat the Cougars in three straight sets, 25-13, 25-19 and 25-23. Edson recorded 22 of Houston’s 26 assists, while sophomore setter Kassie O’Brien contributed 27 of Kentucky’s 31 assists.
Houston last defeated Purdue and Kentucky in 1996 and 1997, respectively. Despite the losses, the Cougars showcased their tenacious style of play by remaining competitive throughout the weekend. Purdue was crowned champion of the inaugural Paradise Invitational after sweeping SMU on Sunday afternoon.
The Cougars will return home for the Flo Hyman Classic, beginning Sept. 18 at the Fertitta Center. Houston will open the tournament Friday against UTSA at noon, then face Houston Christian at 6:30 p.m
sports@thedailycougar.com
