CONWAY, Ark – The University of Central Arkansas volleyball program announced Friday the hiring of a new assistant coach, Brianna McCombs. Most recently with Miami of Ohio, McCombs fills the vacant position on the Sugar Bears coaching staff.

The Franklin, Tennessee native is not lacking when it comes to experience in the ASUN, as she was at Jacksonville as an assistant coach for two seasons before joining the Miami Ohio Staff. McCombs also worked as an assistant coach for Ohio University during the 2020-2021 season, also serving as the travel coordinator and director of volleyball operations. During her time with Jacksonville, she also made an effort to emphasize academics for the Dolphins, resulting in an ASUN Scholar-Athlete of the year award for Kariana Ayala-Drew in 2022.

As a player, McCombs started her career in 2012 at Middle Tennessee State University as a libero. As a Blue Raider, she tallied 470 digs, 24 service aces, and 72 assists. After a season at MTSU, McCombs stayed local, transferring to Lipscomb for the remainder of her college career.

Her playing career took off at Lipscomb, as she won ASUN Defensive Player of the Year and an ASUN First Team All-Conference during her time with the Bisons. In 2013, McCombs led the ASUN in digs per set with 4.62, ending that season with 469 digs throughout 111 sets, while also being top 10 in the ASUN in aces during conference play with 28. 2014 was a big season for McCombs, helping the Bisons become the first team in ASUN history to earn an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament. During that season she totaled 505 digs, while once again tallying 28 aces and throwing in 38 assists.

Quote from head coach John Newberry: "I'm very excited for Bri to be joining us. She has had some great experience as a player and college coach. She's extremely driven and very vocal as a person. She will be instrumental in leading our defensive efforts in the back row. I love her straight forwardness and her "why." It aligns well with the program visions and goals."