Related: Georgia College Hurdles Volleyball In Straight Sets

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Despite racking up more kills, blocks, assists and digs than the hosts, the UNC Pembroke volleyball team dropped a four-set Peach Belt Conference (PBC) affair to host Augusta Saturday afternoon at the Christenberry Fieldhouse, 20-25, 25-20, 13-25, 17-25.

The Braves (1-16, 0-7 PBC) see their losing streak upped to ten, while the Jaguars (9-3, 5-1 PBC) escape with their fourth-consecutive victory to move into third in the league standings.

 UNCP's 46 kills, 11 blocks, 45 assists and 78 digs bettered all Augusta's numbers in those categories and the 78 digs are a season best for the Black & Gold. The Braves outhit Augusta in the first two sets, but the hosts held a .161-.148 advantage in hitting percentage across all four sets.

The Braves had ample opportunity to steal the opening set from Augusta, leading 20-17 before the Jaguars rattled off eight-straight points to secure the victory. Augusta made a similar run in set two, cutting a 24-15 UNCP lead to just 24-20 before the Black & Gold converted on their sixth set point.

Sophomore Aquia Jones led all Braves with a season-high 13 kills. She was joined in double-digits by senior Caroline Pridgen with an even 10. Freshman Makaylah Elliot tacked on nine kills, while classmate Madelyn Ashwell added eight.

The UNCP 6-2 offense produced 20 assists from senior Alicia Paeplow and another 19 from sophomore Bailee Jones. Three Braves racked up double-figure digs, led by a season-high 24 from senior Josephine Yang. Paeplow added 16 for her first double-double of the season and freshman Anna Heinz dug the ball 14 times, also a season high.

The Braves return home Tuesday for a 7 p.m. tilt with league foe Lander. The Bearcats (10-4, 2-4 PBC) are reeling, having lost four straight after a 10-0 start. Lander has won seven-consecutive meetings with UNCP, including a 3-0 win Sept. 17 this season in Greenwood, S.C. The Braves hold a 20-19 advantage in the all-time series dating back to 1998.