Phenoms Playing Up at the 2025 Triple Crown NIT

The Triple Crown NIT is the ultimate proving ground in club volleyball, where the nation's most elite talent converges for a weekend of high-stakes, intense competition. With over 670 teams, 7,000 athletes, and 800 college coaches in attendance, this event isn't just about winning, it's about making a statement. For athletes looking to elevate their game and gain exposure, there's no better stage.   Among the hundreds of high-impact players at this year's event, a select few stood out for taking on an even greater challenge: playing up an age division. Competing against more seasoned competition is a bold move that demands advanced skill, confidence, and adaptability. While it can fast-track development and increase exposure, it also comes with added pressure to perform.   For freshmen, stepping into an older age group can be a game-changer, sharpening their skills and proving they can compete with top-tier talent. For middle school athletes, the challenge isn't just about playing up—it's about proving they already belong among some of the nation's best.   With that in mind, I've highlighted six exceptional athletes who embraced the challenge of competing in an older division at the 2025 Triple Crown NIT—and left no doubt that they are players to watch for years to come.    [player_tooltip player_id='752356' first='Emerson' last='Jane Harper'] has been playing volleyball since she was seven years old, and it's clear that her years of dedication have shaped her into an elite young setter. Accordingly to Coach Cari Klein, "she has always played up in age groups", and she absolutely should. Her game is already at a high school level, and in many ways, she surpasses upperclassmen setters with her advanced court vision, decision-making, and technical execution.   A true phenom at the setting position, Emerson runs the offense with confidence and precision. She sees the game differently, making reads and adjustments that many older setters are still learning to master. Whether she's dictating tempo, delivering a perfect back set, or disguising her choices to keep blockers guessing, Emerson operates with an elite-level volleyball IQ that is rare for her age.   Beyond her setting ability, she is fast, scrappy, and relentless on defense, proving she is far more than just a distributor. She digs balls, covers hitters, and turns broken plays into offensive opportunities with a level of control and awareness well beyond her years. Her offensive decision-making is exceptional, keeping opponents off balance while maximizing her team's scoring potential.   [player_tooltip player_id='752356' first='Emerson' last='Jane Harper'] is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive young setters I have seen this year. She is already competing at an advanced level, and her potential for growth is off the charts. College coaches should start taking notice now—because Emerson isn't just a rising star; she's on a trajectory to be one of the most sought-after setters in the game. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247       [player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson'] may still be in middle school, but watching her play, you'd never know it. She competes with the strength, skill, and court awareness of a much older athlete, making her one of the most exciting young prospects in her class. Built with natural athleticism and power, she brings a strong, well-rounded game that allows her to excel in every aspect of play.   Her timing and shot selection are far beyond her years. She knows when to swing aggressively and when to mix in a well-placed tip, demonstrating a high volleyball IQ and the ability to read the defense. Whether she's attacking from the front row or taking a smart swing out of system, Baylee consistently makes the right play, a trait that sets her apart as a high-impact player.   Her explosiveness at the net and control in transition make her an absolute must-see athlete for anyone looking at the next wave of rising talent. With her natural gifts, work ethic, and elite-level potential, [player_tooltip player_id='700675' first='Baylee' last='Wilson'] is undoubtedly a future star in the sport. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='492164' first='Megan' last='Hodges'] is an absolute powerhouse in the middle, one of the hardest-hitting players to step on the court. Her combination of height, athleticism, and pure explosiveness makes her an unstoppable force at the net. When she swings, the ball comes off her hand like a rocket, leaving defenders scrambling and making half-hearted attempts to stop her completely futile.   Her ability to dominate the middle is a direct result of her strong footwork, quick transitions, and court awareness. She is relentless in attack, always available as an option, and able to terminate plays with authority. Whether it's a quick tempo set or a slide attack, Megan finds ways to score at an elite rate, making her a true difference-maker for her team.   Defensively, her size and blocking instincts make her just as intimidating. She closes the block with precision, reads hitters well, and puts up a wall at the net that opposing teams struggle to get past.   Megan's presence in the gym is undeniable—she plays with a fearless mindset and a dominant energy that makes her one of the most exciting middle blockers in the 2028 class. With her natural talent and work ethic, there's no doubt she's on track to be a high-impact player at the next level. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='550009' first='Lana' last='Frelix'] plays on another level, showcasing a blend of power, speed, and high-level volleyball IQ that sets her apart. Her attacks are electric, generating impressive velocity and precision, making her a nightmare for opposing defenses. When she swings, the ball doesn't just find the floor—it explodes off her hand, a testament to her sheer athleticism and technical execution.   What makes Lana even more special is her shot selection and ability to read the game. She doesn't just rely on raw power—she plays with strategic intelligence, mixing in sharp cross-court swings, deep corners, and off-speed shots that keep defenders guessing. Her approach and execution resemble that of a collegiate player, reflecting an advanced understanding of the game and the ability to adjust under pressure.   Lana's presence on the court is undeniable. She competes with confidence and dominance, elevating both her game and the play of those around her. With her unmatched skill set and next-level potential, she is well on her way to becoming one of the most exciting prospects in her class. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='492531' first='Maya' last='Harris'] is a force to be reckoned with on the offensive side of the ball. She plays with incredible power and consistency, making her a constant threat at the net. Maya's ability to generate explosive attacks with both speed and accuracy makes her one of the most dangerous hitters in the gym at her age.   What truly sets Maya apart is her court awareness. She doesn't just hit hard, she hits smart. She reads the defense exceptionally well, adjusting her shots mid-air to find the open spots on the court. Her ability to stay dialed in under pressure and execute with efficiency is a testament to her high-level mindset and work ethic. With a strong volleyball IQ and relentless approach, [player_tooltip player_id='492531' first='Maya' last='Harris'] is a player with an incredibly bright future ahead. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='515402' first='Janiah' last='Burrage'] is a phenom in every sense of the word. She is built different, displaying a level of skill, power, and court awareness well beyond her years. As a 2028, she plays with greatness, showing the kind of poise and dominance typically seen in older, more experienced players.   Her athleticism is elite, with an explosive jump, a lightning-fast arm swing, and an uncanny ability to read the game. Whether she's attacking from the front row or unleashing a powerful swing from the backcourt, she is a game-changer who commands attention.   What truly sets Janiah apart is her competitive drive and relentless work ethic. She plays with an intensity and confidence that elevate both her own game and those around her. Her talent potential is off the charts, and she is only scratching the surface of what she can become.   Janiah is a dynamic force who continues to prove she's one to watch for great things to come. College coaches and volleyball enthusiasts alike should keep a close eye on her trajectory because this rising star is destined to make an impact at the next level and beyond. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   If you enjoyed this article, please show your support by following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCA</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/coachable247/?hl=en">Coachable247</a>, for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes action, and an inside look at the volleyball community you love.   Together, we're building a positive platform to celebrate players, empower families, and connect with the volleyball community. A big thank you to all of our subscribers for being an essential part of this journey. Let's keep growing the game and creating unforgettable memories.   This journey is made possible by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.   Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Michelle Bamford @<a href="https://www.coachable247.com/">Coachable247</a>

The Triple Crown NIT is the ultimate proving ground in club volleyball, where the nation's most elite talent converges for a weekend of high-stakes, intense competition. With over 670 teams, 7,000 athletes, and 800 college coaches in attendance, this event isn't just about winning, it's about making a statement. For athletes looking to elevate their game and gain exposure, there's no better stage.