HUXLEY, IA -- The atmosphere was electric Thursday night inside The Hangar as the #14-ranked Ballard Bombers battled back to defeat #15 Nevada in a thrilling Class 4A regional semifinal, 11-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-20.  With the win, the Bombers advance to the regional final on Tuesday, October 28, where they will face #6 Norwalk for a trip to the state tournament.

After a slow start in the opening set, Ballard found its rhythm behind strong net play and a balanced offense.  Senior Brenna Baumgardner led the way with 21 kills on a blistering .528 hitting percentage, while Hailey Estrem dished out an impressive 47 assists to guide the Bomber attack.

Kendall Ersland and Emersyn Engstler also contributed in big ways offensively.  Ersland recorded 11 kills and Engstler added 9 as Ballard's hitting depth wore down the Cubs' defense.  Junior Harley Askelsen was efficient as well, tallying 8 kills with a .467 hitting percentage.

Defensively, Halle Gardner anchored the back row with 19 digs, while the Bombers combined for 11 total blocks at the net.  Gardner and senior Ashley Kinter were also steady from the service line, combining for 4 of Ballard's 6 aces on the night.

After dropping the first set 11-25, the Bombers responded with poise, winning three straight sets and feeding off the home crowd's energy. 

The victory propels the Bombers into the Class 4A Regional Final at #6 Norwalk on Tuesday, October 28 at 7 PM, with a state tournament berth on the line.

Ballard 3, Nevada 1
(11-25, 25-23, 25-22, 25-20)

Up Next
at #6 Norwalk
Tuesday, October 28 — 7 PM
Regional Final — Winner advances to the State Tournament

Photo Credit: Davidson Photography