RICHARDSON, Texas – No. 9 Angelo State University volleyball earned its first weekly accolade of the 2026 season Tuesday, as Sydney Thornton was named the Lone Star Conference Offensive Player of the Week, the league office announced.

Thornton, a junior finance major, helped lead the then-No. 14 Belles to a 4-1 week against a challenging slate that included then-No. 5 Ferris State, No. 7 MSU Denver and Bentley, which was receiving votes in the AVCA Division II Coaches Poll.

The Prosper, Texas, native totaled 43 kills while hitting .373 and added 16 blocks during the five-match stretch. Thornton also recorded 16 digs, three service aces and an assist.

Thornton's strong week helped the Belles open the season 8-1, with the middle blocker recording at least 12 kills and two blocks in five of Angelo State's first nine matches.

The Belles will close out nonconference play at home this week, hosting the Lone Star Conference Challenge at the Junell Center/Stephens Arena. Angelo State will face West Texas A&M Thursday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. before taking on Lubbock Christian Saturday, Sept. 12, at 2 p.m.