The UNM volleyball team swept UNLV on Thursday during "Volley for the Cure" night at Johnson Gym.
More than 1,700 fans packed the stands, and players warmed up in pink T-shirts to honor the fight against breast cancer.
To put the cherry on top of the night, the Lobos beat the Rebels 25-13, 25-19, 25-18.
With the win, UNM improves to 16-4 overall and 6-3 in Mountain West Conference action. UNLV falls to 13-9 and 6-3.
Head coach Jeff Nelson said his team stuck to its game plan for the win.
"I thought we did a really good job of keeping them on their heels," Nelson said. "It's a huge win for conference and regional rankings, for postseason and for everything that we want to do this year."
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But for senior defensive specialist Sarah Kwasigroch, the win meant much more.
Kwasigroch's mother, Patricia, was diagnosed with breast cancer last year.
"My mom was here, and 'Volley for a Cure' was in honor of her," Sarah said. "It was a great turnout. A lot of fans wore pink, and the gym looked pink. And we won. I honestly couldn't be happier."
Patricia traveled from Chicago to attend the event.
"This being Sarah's senior year, just to see her play is an honor," Patricia said. "But to see all the support from the Lobo family - they've embraced us and her. (Athletic Director) Paul Krebs, Jeff, everyone.. It's more than just an athletic program. We've been embraced by the entire UNM community."
A silent auction for gift packages was held during the first two sets. Pink honor ribbons were sold for $1, allowing fans to honor loved ones by puting their names on the ribbons, and donation bins were set up near the concession stands.
Proceeds were donated to the American Cancer Society, though the amount raised was not available Thursday.
"I'm just so grateful to see all the support," Patricia said. "Sarah and (director of volleyball operations) Jordie Hadfield put in so much hard work organizing everything. It's great knowing that all the money raised is going towards early detection, prevention and mammograms. It means the world to me."
Sarah ended the game with 13 digs and an ace.
Up next, UNM faces conference foe San Diego State on Saturday at Johnson Gym.
"We're not going to overlook them," Sarah said. "They are a good team, and we played them a while ago. Anyone can get better in a month. So, really we are going to celebrate this win tonight. But tomorrow morning, it's all about San Diego State and winning."
