NEWARK, NJ - The NJIT women's volleyball was defeated in its America East Conference opener on Friday evening, falling in straight sets to visiting Binghamton at the Wellness and Events Center.

The Highlanders led by at least five midway in both the first and second sets, but the Bearcats came back in each winning the first 25-20 and the second 25-22. In the third set it was NJIT that came from behind, tying the match at 23-23 and 24-24 before Binghamton got the final two points to win the match.

BU hit .282 for the match, while holding the Highlanders to a .117 hitting percentage. 

Juliana Impaglia was NJIT's top performer on Friday, finishing the match with a double-double as she recorded team-highs in both assists (19) and digs (11). 

Adriana Goetz-Morales paced the NJIT offense with eight kills, while Sara Siefert and Elley Torres each sent down six kills.

Rowan Schreiber's four kills led the Highlanders as NJIT out-blocked Binghamton 7-5 for the match.

The Highlanders return to action on Sunday when they host UAlbany in another America East Conference matchup. First serve is slated for 2pm back in the WEC.