2024: The Stock Risers
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With rankings updates come many shifts in where athletes were previously ranked. A handful of athletes jumped up a significant number of spots in the 2024 rankings. Below are the athletes in the top 50 with the most movement. Brooke…
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Continue ReadingWith rankings updates come many shifts in where athletes were previously ranked. A handful of athletes jumped up a significant number of spots in the 2024 rankings. Below are the athletes in the top 50 with the most movement.
Previous rank: #26Why the rise? Williams’ rise to the top has been incredible to watch; she started her prep career as a mid-level recruit and has continued to make major strides in her game each season. She is such a complete middle blocker; she puts up a formidable block with a productive first step to move laterally, is aggressive in transition, consistently available to her setters, has a lethal float serve, is a leader, and always brings so much fire and competitiveness to the court. All of this was on full display when she led the Oregon City Pioneers to a second-place finish in the 6A State tournament. She has become one of the most lethal middles in the state and will surely be a major impact at the next level for Seattle Pacific University.
Previous rank: #35
Why the rise? Eason is an absolute athlete. Playing in her true position this past high school season, she anchored the backrow for Barlow High School as their starting libero. Previously, she tried her hand at setting for the Bruins. So, to get to see Eason shine as their libero for her final high school season was special to watch. A Mt. Hood First Team All-League selection, she led the team to a five-set win versus crosstown rival Nelson High School. Her relentless pursuits and fast reaction time are on full display when Eason is passing. She recently committed to play Division 1 volleyball for the University of Portland.
Highlights
Previous rank: #40
Why the rise? As a freshman, Williams did not receive a top spot on the rankings, and a year ago, she was ranked #65. Her steady grind to get better spoke volumes, and the improvements to her game were noted. She was a major piece in Jesuit High School’s State championship, and her play simply could not be ignored. Williams has a cannon of an arm. When she connects with the ball, it is absolutely booming and almost always results in a kill. Her control and decision-making on when to swing and when to mix it up have improved by leaps and bounds. Still uncommitted, she is sure to be a major get for whatever program signs her.
Previous rank: #68Why the rise? A 6’1” six-rotation outside hitter, King’s dominant play for Burns High School this past season was hard to miss. She was an invaluable piece to the Hilanders 3A State championship. She was given Eastern Oregon First Team All-League and 3A All-State Honorable Mention nods for her impressive play. With a high reach on the ball, she is diligent about placement and racks up kills all over the court with her multitude of attacking angles. King has all the makings of being a top 2024 recruit from the state of Oregon. Where she will play is yet to be determined.
Previous rank: #50
Why the rise? Pernsteiner is a versatile and bouncy attacker who has proved over the past few seasons that she is a productive offensive option from anywhere along the net. She shouldered a bigger offensive load for St. Mary’s Academy this past season and was a major player in their successful season. She led the Blues in total kills (194), total blocks (61), kills per set (2.9), and hitting percentage (.268). She received Three Rivers First Team All-League for her play. Playing for One Ohana 18-1 this club season, she is uncommitted to a college at this point. But with her athleticism, impressive leaping abilities, and fast arm, she will be a great get for the program that signs her.
Previous rank: #54
Why the rise? Brown has steadily risen in the ranks each season. This last high school season for the Barlow Bruins, all eyes were on Brown. She shouldered a massive load as a six-rotation outside hitter and was a go-to attacker for the team. Her play was a big piece in their five-set win versus crosstown rivals Nelson. She received Mt. Hood First Team All-League for her play. At 5’8”, she is skilled in both the front and back row and can be utilized as an attacker or a defensive specialist, a role she primarily carried on her club team last season. This club season, you can find her competing with Aspire NW 18-1, and I will be curious to see where Brown is utilized. With her steady ball control, smart attacking, and sheer athleticism, she will be a great pick up for a collegiate program.
rnPrevious rank: #62
Why the rise? Mish is an athlete who, with each season she plays, proves she can truly do it all. She takes on whatever role is needed to help the team succeed. She is a utility player that shines in whatever position she is put in. Her play this past high school was a major testament to this. Having never set before, she executed a 5-1 for Ida B brilliantly. She was scrappy, protected right back defensively, and was an offensive threat in the front row. This club season playing for Aspire NW 18-1, she should get plenty of time in the backcourt with top setters and attackers on the roster. This role will prepare her well before she heads to Hawaii Pacific, where she will play for their volleyball team, recruited as a defensive specialist.
Highlights
rnPrevious rank: #91
Why the rise? Villastrigo’s dominant play in the 4A was hard to ignore. Anchoring the back row of Crook County’s varsity team as their starting libero, she was a major piece of their ability to secure the Tri-Valley conference title. She was honored with Tri-Valley Player of the Year and a 4A All-Tournament Second Team nod to cap off her senior high school season. She was a top defender in the state, posting 465 digs, #6 in the state for total digs. Villastrigo has committed to play volleyball for Eastern Oregon University.