Freshmen Pin Hitters on the Rise in Nevada
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Pin hitters in the class of 2027 have been outstanding this season, excelling in both school and club settings. These talented freshmen have had some very impressive achievements thus far and have been consistently showcasing their ability to compete at…
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Continue ReadingPin hitters in the class of 2027 have been outstanding this season, excelling in both school and club settings. These talented freshmen have had some very impressive achievements thus far and have been consistently showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
Here are six very impressive volleyball players from Nevada gearing up for their sophomore year this Fall.
Lily Beckwith
Lily Beckwith
Standing at 6’3″, this explosive outside hitter showcases exceptional volleyball skills at a remarkably high level, establishing herself as a versatile six-rotation player. Blocking Beckwith presents a challenge for many teams because of her diverse attacking skills. Demonstrating exceptional volleyball intelligence as a freshman, she can effectively attack line, cross-court, and cut shots based on how the opponent’s block sets. Lily’s aggression is consistent whether she’s on the backrow or front row, a factor that recently contributed to her team’s impressive 6-2 finish at the SLC Showdown. The two-sport athlete’s talent was recently recognized as she was named a top performer at the SLC Showdown Showcase presented by PrepDig & USA Volleyball. This 2027 hitter should prove to be a top hitter this upcoming school season.
Taylor Anderson
Taylor Anderson
This left-handed hitter shines on right side but very capable of delivering powerful kills from any position in the front row. When set to the antenna, she has already mastered getting on top of the ball and hitting down the line hard. Her quick arm swing and impressive vertical makes it very difficult to block her or get past her block. Taylor carries her high energy and aggressiveness to backrow, hustling for every ball that comes her way. She is an ideal six rotation player, having already earned a spot on the Nevada 4A 1st team as a freshman. Anderson is poised to become a top recruit from the class of 2027 due to her explosive playing style and I look forward to catching her play in the Fall.
Aliana aka “Allie” is proving to be one of the top pin hitters in her class with her explosive attacks from the outside. Deep cross court is a sweet spot for the 5’10” freshman and she makes it extremely hard to defend her without a block. She of course can hit other great holes on the court because she quickly transitions off the net, often beating the block with her very quick armswing. Her aggressive attacking on the outside and back row “pipe” has helped her Vegas Aces Team consistently make it to the Gold bracket and secure some very impressive high place finishes this club season thus far. Spending her previous year on JV as a freshman at Bishop Gorman, Allie’s time should be coming very soon to join the competitive varsity volleyball team.
Highlights
I’Yanna Riley
I’Yanna Riley
I’yanna has been working very hard to become an ideal six rotation player a lot of colleges are looking for. Some of her strengths include aggressive hitting in the front row, solid serve receive skills, and proficient back row defense. With an impressive vertical, she is able to get on top of more balls than the average hitter at her height which creates more scoring opportunities. You can tell she puts in the extra time to be more than just a hitter by her form and discipline when passing or digging on backrow. Riley currently plays up with her club’s 16s team and she still manages to stand out. I predict I’yanna will be a name I will hear a lot next school season.
Gabriella Leone
Gabriella Leone
Leone is rapidly emerging as a standout player on the outside, consistently delivering crucial kills for her Tstreet LV club team. She has a very strong float serve that has led to aces throughout the season, blocks effectively and can play all the way around. Gabriella has an explosive approach which gives her a ton of momentum when it’s time to swing and hit the ball. She makes it hard to recognize early if she is about to deliver a powerful attack, an offspeed ball or tip because she commits 100% to her approach. This is a huge strength that separate the average hitter from and elite hitter. Her strong serve receive passing and proficiency in out-of-system play on the right side further demonstrate her skills. As she continues to develop, I expect the freshman to really get her name out there next school season at Coronado.
Sarah Nigro
Sarah Nigro
This right-side pin hitter poses a significant threat with her strong hitting and blocking abilities, making her an excellent fit for the opposite position. Transitioning swiftly off the net, the freshman ensures she’s always ready to receive sets. Sophia, having previously been awarded offensive player of the year on her junior varsity high school team, is undoubtedly an offensive force. Nigro played a crucial role in her club team’s recent 6-2 finish at Red Rock Rave. With her high school team finishing third in state and losing several seniors, it’s likely that the sophomore will move up to varsity and emerge as one of the top pin hitters in the state well before her senior year.
There are several more amazing freshmen that I have come across this year. I will be presenting more players very soon.
If you would like to bring a player to my attention, please email me at: lasvegasvbanalyst@gmail.com or tag me on Instagram @lasvegasvbanalyst