Comets Sweep Knights, Set Up Top-25 Clash with MiraCosta

SAN MARCOS, CA (9/26/2025) -- The No. 21-ranked Palomar College women's volleyball team continued its strong run through conference play, sweeping San Diego City College 3–0 (25–12, 25–21, 25–19) on Friday night at The Dome. The win marked the Comets' third straight victory and improved their record to 10–3 overall and 3–1 in Pacific Coast Athletic Conference action.

Steady from Start to Finish

Palomar controlled the pace throughout the evening, jumping out early and never trailing by more than a few points in any set. The Comets hit .206 as a team while holding the Knights to a negative hitting percentage, once again showcasing their defensive balance and offensive depth.

Offensive Leaders

Freshman Emma Bambe led the way with 10 kills and 11 digs for another double-double, while Kate Johnson added nine kills on .300 hitting. Reese Maffitt turned in another strong performance with seven kills and four aces, and Teiora Tinoisamoa added five kills on an efficient .571 clip.

Setter Caden Pinto steered the offense with 34 assists and contributed four kills of her own on perfect hitting. Sierra Schoenwald and Janice Garcia combined for eight blocks at the net, helping to disrupt San Diego City's rhythm.

Defensive Backbone

Defensively, Kiana Merrill anchored the back row with a match-high 20 digs and three aces from the service line. The Comets' serving game was once again a difference-maker, tallying nine aces while forcing the Knights out of system throughout the match.

Rivalry Ahead

With the sweep, Palomar improved to 10–3 overall and 3–1 in PCAC play. The Comets now turn their focus to a top-25 showdown on Wednesday when they travel north to face rival MiraCosta College in a pivotal early-season conference matchup.