Buckner Leads Team to Women’s Title

Annett Buckner had 18 kills to lead Team Paul Mitchell to a 15-11 victory over Team Discus Athletics on Saturday in the women’s final of the Bud Light Pro Beach Volleyball League tournament at Huntington Beach.

Discus Athletic tied the score, 11-11, on two ace serves by Stephanie Cox. But Buckner had a kill for a sideout then served an ace and Paul Mitchell never looked back.

Buckner, a former UCLA All-American, nicked the end line with the winning spike to give Paul Mitchell its first tournament title of the season. Paul Mitchell had placed second three times and third twice earlier this season.

Paul Mitchell and Sony Autosound were 3-1 after pool play ended Saturday, but Paul Mitchell earned a spot in the final based on point differential. Likewise, Discus Athletic and Norelco were 2-2 after pool play but Discus Athletic advanced to the semifinal because of its point differential.

Men’s pool play continues today beginning at 9 a.m. and the final will be held at 3 p.m.