Georgia Defeated Georgia Tech in Volleyball Thriller

The Bulldogs secured a 3-2 victory in front of 2,416 fans at Stegeman Coliseum.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Volleyball

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The Georgia Bulldogs secured a 3-2 victory over rival Georgia Tech on September 20, 2026, marking their first back-to-back series win since 1998. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Georgia claimed a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Georgia Tech on September 20, 2026. This win marks the first time the Bulldogs have achieved back-to-back victories against their rivals since 1998.

Why it matters

The result breaks a long-standing drought in the series for Georgia, solidifying their momentum heading into the upcoming conference schedule. It marks a significant milestone for the program as it maintains success against a primary in-state competitor.

Gigi Artiles dominated the match with 26 kills, 17 digs, and 27.5 points, while Chloe Elarton contributed 47 assists. Kendal Kemp added 12 kills and 7 blocks, achieving a .558 hitting percentage throughout the five sets.

The players

Gigi Artiles

She is a key offensive contributor for the Georgia volleyball team who led the match in kills and points.

Kendal Kemp

She is a standout blocker for the Bulldogs who provided consistent defensive pressure at the net.

Chloe Elarton

She serves as the primary setter for Georgia and orchestrated the team offense throughout the five-set match.

Georgia Tech

They are a competitive collegiate volleyball program and the primary in-state rival of the University of Georgia.

The details

The teams traded set victories until Georgia surged in the final frame to win 15-10 at Stegeman Coliseum. Georgia relied on strong defensive play, recording five of their 10 total match blocks during the second set.

Timeline

  1. The match between Georgia and Georgia Tech took place on September 20, 2026.

  2. Georgia previously earned back-to-back wins over Georgia Tech in 1992 and 1998.

  3. The Bulldogs play South Carolina to open SEC play on September 23, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This victory serves as a crucial momentum builder as the Bulldogs transition into the rigorous SEC schedule. It establishes a new benchmark for success in the rivalry, setting higher expectations for the program's standing within the division.

The 3-2 victory provides Georgia with a necessary confidence boost as they move toward the South Carolina matchup. Fans should note the team's defensive depth, evidenced by their 10 total blocks, as a key factor in future close-set contests.

The takeaway

Maintaining consistency across five sets proved to be the decisive factor for the Bulldogs in this competitive match. Future opponents will likely focus on containing Artiles following her high-volume performance on the court.

What happens next

Georgia is scheduled to begin SEC competition against South Carolina on September 23, 2026.

Further reading

For more updates on the Bulldogs, visit the Volleyball section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The Red and Black.