KOKOMO, Ind. - The Cougar volleyball team recorded their 20th-consecutive win Tuesday evening against Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, which also doubled as IU Kokomo's eighth-straight sweep.

In the two teams previous matchup this season at SMWC, the Pomeroys managed to take a set from the Cougars, who would eventually win in four. Knowing the Pomeroys presented a stiff test, the Cougars came to play, handling business from the opening point.

IU Kokomo's outside hitters impressed Tuesday evening, leading the Cougars to a dominant conference win. Maggie Connell had a team-high 13 kills while fellow OH Mia Niekamp recorded 11. Audrey Strawsma, along with setter Allison Richman, both tallied seven kills.

In front of a packed house to begin homecoming week, the Cougars began the match by winning nine of the opening 12 points for a commanding 9-3 lead. A Mia Niekamp kill extended the lead to eight at 14-6, forcing an SMWC timeout.

The Cougars would cruise to a 25-13 first-set victory.

While IU Kokomo managed to control play throughout the second set on their way to a 25-16 set two win, the Cougars dealt with a resilient Pomeroy squad in set three.

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods would not go down without a fight, as they traded points with IUK for much of the third set. IU Kokomo would eventually gain enough breathing room to put the Pomeroys away, winning set-three 25-18 to close out yet another straight-set victory.

Sophomore setter Allison Richman played a key role in Tuesday's win, totaling a team-high 18 assists while also flooring seven kills. Richman's seven kills are a collegiate career high.

Alyvia Smith had a match-high 19 digs to lead the way for IUK, while Julia Sanders added seven and Mya Shively contributed six. Lexi Broyles had four blocks to lead the Cougs.

The Cougars will return to action Friday night, as they will host the Oakland City Mighty Oaks. First-serve is set for 7:00 PM.

For the latest news, updates, and information on the IU Kokomo Cougars, fans can visit IUKCougars.com. Fans can also stay up to date on the latest Cougar news by following @IUKAthletics on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.