The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
Hirini and Thomas Conclude Play At AVCA Nationals
5/2/2015 12:00:00 AM | Women's Beach Volleyball
GULF SHORES, Ala. -- UAB sand volleyball seniors Kiriana Hirini and Bethanie Thomas closed out their careers on Saturday at the 2015 AVCA National Pairs Tournament. The Blazer duo fell in both matches in Gulf Shores, Ala.
The duo finished 1-3 in pool play with their win coming on Friday against LSU's Orellana and Lindelow to place fourth. Saturday's action featured matches against LMU's Metter and Sponcil followed by Arizona's Witt and Witt.
Hirini and Thomas opened the day against LMU, falling to Metter and Sponcil 21-14, 21-15. Thomas led with 15 kills in the match.
The Blazer pair then played a close three-set match against Arizona. Witt and Witt won the first set, 21-9, but Hirini and Thomas fought back to win the second set 22-20, and send the match to a tie-breaker.
It was a close third set that came down to the final point, but Arizona edged the Blazers 15-13. Hirini recorded 16 kills and add three blocks, while Thomas picked up nine digs and added eight kills in the match.
This concludes a stellar career for the Blazer duo, who made their third-straight appearance in the AVCA Nationals. Hirini and Thomas finished with a win in each of their three appearances.
For the latest news on Blazer sports, follow the UAB Athletics Twitter account: @UABathletics. For volleyball news, follow @UABSandVBall.
