2027 Liberos/DS: Who’s Making Moves in the Rankings?

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>North Dakota volleyball continues to gain recognition, and the Class of 2027 is showing why the state deserves to be on the map. This group of liberos and defensive specialists is redefining back-row play with their quick reactions, relentless hustle, and high-level court IQ.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>These athletes aren't just keeping plays alive—they're controlling the game. From diving digs to flawless serve receive, they are the backbone of their teams, proving that defense wins championships.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>So, who's climbing the rankings? Who's standing out as a must-watch player? Let's break down the top 2027 liberos and DS making a name for themselves and putting North Dakota volleyball on the radar.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["745512"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252d6a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='745512' first='Brenna' last='Martian']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#56 Overall | #6 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Brenna earns her spot as the #6 defensive specialist/libero in North Dakota's Class of 2027, and for good reason. Her movement on the court is seamless—she flows effortlessly in coverage, always anticipating the next play. Her court awareness is elite, allowing her to read the setter and position herself exactly where she needs to be.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>With quick reflexes, smart positioning, and a natural instinct for the game, Brenna is a defensive anchor that every team needs. Her ability to track the ball and react with precision makes her a difference-maker in the back row. Coaches, take note—this DS/L is one to watch.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23610589/677a2c7ebe38c7d23a01de7d">http://www.hudl.com/video/3/23610589/677a2c7ebe38c7d23a01de7d</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["747677"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252dfd"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='747677' first='Natalie' last='Sabot']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#45 Overall | #5 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Natalie has cemented herself as the #5 DS/Libero in North Dakota's Class of 2027, and it's easy to see why. Every time she steps on the court, she makes an impact—calm, composed, and always in control, no matter how intense the game gets.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Her court presence is undeniable. She reads plays early, positions herself with precision, and delivers elite-level passes that set up her offense for success. But she's more than just a defensive force—her hustle is relentless, and her energy keeps her team locked in and engaged from start to finish.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2RkgNA">http://www.hudl.com/v/2RkgNA</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["724966"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252e60"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='724966' first='Kinley' last='Pedersen']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#42 Overall | #4 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Kinley claims the #4 spot for DS/Libero in North Dakota's Class of 2027, and for good reason—she's a defensive difference-maker every time she steps on the court. Her ability to read attackers is next-level, allowing her to anticipate plays before they happen and position herself for the perfect coverage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>She moves with purpose, reacting instantly to shifts in the offense and ensuring no ball hits the floor without a fight. Her quick reflexes, disciplined footwork, and high volleyball IQ make her a key asset in any back-row rotation. Whether it's a powerful swing or a tricky tip, Kinley is always in the right place at the right time.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2RknKY">http://www.hudl.com/v/2RknKY</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725659"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252ebb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='725659' first='Joslyn' last='Asplin']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#41 Overall | #3 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Joslyn secures her spot as one of the top three liberos/DS in North Dakota's Class of 2027, and it's well deserved. She's a relentless competitor, a true hustler who leaves everything on the court. Her ability to read and react is elite—she tracks the ball effortlessly, anticipates plays, and positions herself perfectly to make game-changing digs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>What sets Joslyn apart is her composure against top-tier competition. No matter how powerful the hitter, she steps up with confidence, handling tough attacks with ease and keeping her team in system. Her smooth passing and fearless defense make her a key player in any lineup.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19151005/65b82dd34df56c0688674a24">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/19151005/65b82dd34df56c0688674a24</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["724933"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252f16"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='724933' first='Aaliyah' last='Hjelmstad']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#39 Overall | #2 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aaliyah has solidified her spot as North Dakota's #2 DS/Libero for the Class of 2027, and she continues to impress every time she steps on the court. She's been on our watch list since school season, and her impact is just as strong in club play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Aaliyah leads by example—her presence is calm, composed, and commanding. She reads the game with precision, always positioning herself to make clean, controlled passes. Her platform is textbook, delivering consistent, high-quality balls that keep her team in system.<strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/21698351/65ddacc1578def0e743674d2">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/21698351/65ddacc1578def0e743674d2</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["713483"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-67c707f252f77"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='713483' first='Sheyanne' last='Blackcloud']-Class of 2027</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#9 Overall | #1 DS/L</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We've reached the number 1 overall pick for North Dakota's Class of 2027. Sheyanne's versatility is one of her greatest assets—she'll play wherever her coach needs her, but it's her defensive game that truly sets her apart. Over the past weekend she had a near-perfect passing rate of 2.63 out of 3, demonstrating her impeccable skill and consistency under pressure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Sheyanne's commitment to growth is unmatched. She trains with one of the top DS/L coaches in the state, logging countless hours of practice, film study, and extra lessons to refine her technique. Her dedication extends beyond the court, with extra time spent in the weight room to increase strength and agility. She's always hungry for improvement—never settling for “good enough,” and constantly striving to be the best.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Finally, her volleyball IQ is exceptional. She can read the game with precision, positioning herself perfectly and rarely needing to dive for the ball. When errors happen, Sheyanne stays calm, quickly correcting any mistakes and moving forward with unwavering focus. Her resilience and composure in high-pressure situations make her a standout player. <strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><a href="https://app.balltime.com/highlight/d522a320-8f56-4646-b193-b6bd89afa16b?share=true">https://app.balltime.com/highlight/d522a320-8f56-4646-b193-b6bd89afa16b?share=true</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>These players are just the beginning of what we're seeing in North Dakota's DS/Libero ranks. Day in and day out, they're in the gym, putting in the work, pushing their limits. When you're up against some of the top hitters from all over the country, you have to be sharp, relentless, and ready for anything. Mistakes will happen—it's how you recover, adjust, and fight through that separates the good from the great.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Club season is more than just competition—it's an opportunity to grow. It's a time to experiment with different positions, build versatility, and expand your skill set. And let's not forget—you never know when a college coach is watching and sees something in you that could change everything. <strong>We love CLUB SEASON!</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>So to all the players out there grinding—keep working, keep pushing, and keep grinding. We see you, and we know the hard work will pay off. The future of DS/Libero in North Dakota is bright, and you're helping lead the charge. Keep showing up and making your mark—you're already ahead of the game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>If you loved this article, please follow our Instagram page,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigdakotas/?hl=en">PrepDigDakotas</a>&nbsp;for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes action.</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>After following our page, take the next step and&nbsp;<strong>subscribe to PrepDig</strong>! 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