Nike Cross Court Classic – 16 Open – Outsides
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One of the most traditional tournaments annually held in Houston, the Nike Cross Court Classic was played this past weekend at the George R. Brown Convention Center, in downtown, with as many as 675 teams getting on the court. The…
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Continue ReadingOne of the most traditional tournaments annually held in Houston, the Nike Cross Court Classic was played this past weekend at the George R. Brown Convention Center, in downtown, with as many as 675 teams getting on the court.
The gigantic tournament had 19 different divisions and Prep Dig was in attendance for the Saturday AM wave, paying special attention to the teams from the Lone Star State that were in action in the 15 Open and 16 Open divisions.
Several players stood out with strong performances for their teams and we’ll take the week to recognize each of them. When it comes to outside hitters, these were among the best in the 16 Open Division:
One of the latest revelations of Texas volleyball, Udoye was in great form with division winners Texas Fury 16 Legacy. Although she was playing one age group up, at times it really felt like she was actually playing down, so dominant that she was. Udoye is a phenomenal offensive player, combining great size, excellent physical tools and impressive resources to put the ball down. She has clearly grown used to carrying her team’s offense, but Udoye also displayed strong ball control, reliably delivering passes, and solid leadership skills, communicating well with her teammates.
Highlights
Roots 161 Green had one of the best outside hitter duos in the division with Gaines and Annie Witt Annie Witt 5’9″ | OH Liberty Hill | 2025 State TX . Gaines was the team’s go-to scoring option over the weekend and was very efficient in putting the ball down from the left and the right. She has size and power, but was also very creative and smart in finding other ways to score. Gaines also proved to be a very strong player on the backcourt, playing a big role in the team’s serve-receive and making good plays on defense. Her serves were also an important weapon for her team as she had some good runs from the service line.
Highlights
Cambry Gerardi
Cambry Gerardi
There was a lot of movement at the outside hitter position for TAV Houston 16 Adidas, but Gerardi was a constant presence on the court for her team. At 6’3″, she’s a very strong offensive player, who uses her size well to overcome big blockers and score in difficult situations. Gerardi has a good combination of length and skill is very difficult to stop because of her high contact point. She’s also a very solid blocker and a strong player on the backcourt, having great efficiency with her passing and playing good defense. Gerardi also serves an aggressive floater that often creates problems to her opponents.
Other Positional Breakdowns:
* Liberos * Right Sides * Setters * Middles
Nicole Teerman
Nicole Teerman
Teerman had massive scoring responsibilities with her skilled, but undersized Katy United 16 Molten team. Originally a right side hitter, she’s now playing on the left and has also displayed some good improvement with her passing and defense. Teerman was set a lot during the day and managed to score at a good rate, especially considering that opponents knew the ball was going to her and had plenty of time to prepare. She’s a solid offensive player when in system, as she could make the most of her reach and swing hard, but had ups and downs when the set was off the net.
Mary-Alice Dohmann
Mary-Alice Dohmann
Louisiana’s Rise 16-1 has in Dohmann one of their key players. The outside hitter had a big role with her team, especially on offense, getting set a lot and scoring at a high rate. Dohmann has good size and reach, but is also very skilled and great with her shot-selection. Her blocking was also a factor as she reads opposing hitters well and picks the best spot to get in their way. She also had good moments with her serving.