Liberos Rising into Updated Nebraska 2027 Rankings

Here's one for the defensive specialists.   Over the past few days, we've addressed several athletes who rose from the watch list to the rankings upon our latest Nebraska 2027 update. Setters and middle blockers have been in the spotlight, but we still have more names to roll through. That includes a few game-changing liberos who made big strides this year.   Keep tabs on these future leaders along the end line.    We're starting with one of Waverly's many spectacular sophomores. Quinn's upward trend started in the 2024 club season when her [program_tooltip program_id='428743' first='VCNebraska' last=''] 15 Black squad made a deep GJNC run. She then seized Waverly's starting libero role and helped the Vikings return to Class B's semifinal round. Throughout this productive year, we watched Quinn take charge of the contrasting jersey and deliver pinpoint passes with ruthless efficiency. Expect more of the same as Quinn looks for more postseason success with [program_tooltip program_id='428743' first='VCNebraska' last=''] 16 Black.     Here's another libero who knows all about high-profile club success. Jacobson's defensive instincts and quick reads were a centerpiece of Premier Nebraska 15 Black's scrappy, aggressive style. This mantra paid immediate dividends as 15 Black clinched an early GJNC bid through the Northern Lights Qualifier. This was our first exposure to Jacobson's wide-ranging backcourt impact, and the same storyline has played out at Millard South. Jacobson carried a vital DS role with the Patriots and will remain a standout through her upperclassman years.     [program_tooltip program_id='428743' first='VCNebraska' last=''] 15 Black had some ball-control weapons this year. In addition to Quinn's outstanding command of the back row, 15 Black leaned on Twarling to further bolster the team's defense. This Norris prep athlete earned reps as the libero and as a primary defensive specialist, demonstrating Twarling's willingness to change and adapt. Her pinpoint passing was especially apparent in the right-back area--a notoriously difficult spot to handle passes. Twarling's 2024 club success should be a prelude to an impactful prep tenure with the Norris High School powerhouse.     The small-town scene always delivers notable defenders--even from the underclassman ranks. We've listed Borer as a libero, but that doesn't fully encapsulate the sophomore's impact with Boone Central/Newman Grove. She put up some monster defensive numbers with 4.3 digs per set to finish near the top of Nebraska's sophomore leaderboard. However, Borer also put down 3.4 kills per set to become the second-leading scorer for the Cardinals. This electrifying 2027 is a six-rotation outside hitter with the all-around skills needed to don the libero jersey. No matter which position you choose, Borer is one of Nebraska's most fascinating 2027 prospects.     This year's Premier Nebraska 15 Red squad gave us no shortage of defensive stars for our 2027 watch list. Ferguson distinguished herself as a ringleader for this group and kept making gains with Elkhorn High School this fall. She averaged 3.7 digs per set for the Antlers and expanded on her big role as a freshman in 2023. Aside from Ferguson's natural passing and defensive prowess, we've also seen her embrace secondary setting duties in out-of-system situations. She has all the tools for a breakout 2025 campaign with Premier 16 Red.     Columbus Lakeview's high-octane offense has been a frequent discussion topic lately, but what about the players who help set it all up? Greisen caught everyone's attention by racking up five digs per set this year and contributing even more flawless passes to her setter. These consistent first contacts allowed the Vikings to lean on their wealth of offensive weapons, both in first-ball situations and in transition. Lakeview's roster is stacked for a few future postseason breakthroughs.

Here's one for the defensive specialists.