Mililani storms back to defeat visiting Nanakuli in four sets

MILILANI — It was a firework show in central Oahu Tuesday night.

The Mililani girls volleyball team showed off its offensive firepower with a four-set win over visiting Nanakuli in a 22-25, 25-18, 25-16, 25-19 OIA West victory.

Five players had seven kills or more for the Trojans, who improved to 3-1 in the league standings.

With the balanced attack, freshman setter Keala Stephens took home HSRN’s “Grinder of the Game” award, which is presented by Timmy T’s Gourmet Grinders Sandwich Shop. Stephens finished with 47 assists, 13 digs, four aces and had a hand in one block in the win.

It was also the Trojans’ second straight win since dropping a five-set match to Campbell last Tuesday.

“I think we really took that fire that was in us after losing that game against Campbell,” said Stephens. “I think we all knew how it felt finally and we didn’t want to feel that feeling again.”

Rylie Kaopuiki-Kaikaina had 13 kills, Kadence Wilson put down 12 kills and Krislynn Bergantinos had 10 kills and six blocks to round out the players with double-digit kills. Ivy Taylor and Alexandra Manuel also had nine and seven kills respectively for the Mililani offense.

The Trojans dominated the service line with 14 aces and also had seven blocks in the win.

The Golden Hawks (2-2), who dropped its second straight match, were led by Marley Matautia’s match-high 14 kills in the loss.