Keep Your Eyes Open: Ones to Watch at AAU & Nationals 2025

As the club season heads into its most high-stakes stretch — AAU Nationals and the final wave of major championship play — a handful of athletes are standing out as must-watch talent. These are the players making a name for themselves through grit, growth, and pure game. They've shown flashes of brilliance all season long, and now they're poised to break out when it matters most.   From high-flying hitters to strategic setters and relentless liberos, these rising stars are ready to make waves on the national stage. Coaches, scouts, and volleyball fans — here are the names you'll want to remember when the finals lights come on.    Evelyn is the definition of hustle. She chases down balls most setters wouldn't touch and runs her offense with both rhythm and creativity. Her ability to stay composed under pressure while keeping the tempo fast makes her a standout at the setter position. She's vocal, strategic, and brings contagious confidence to the floor. Whether it's a smart out-of-system play or a perfect dish in transition, Evelyn leads with intention and intensity. A natural floor general and the kind of player you want with the ball in her hands when the match is on the line. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='512341' first='Layla' last='Dunn'] is pure fight and fearless power. With a big vertical and a heavy, aggressive swing, she's a constant threat at the net. Her front-row defense is intense — she gets touches on everything and plays with the kind of grit that sets the tone for her team. Layla never backs down, chasing every ball and swinging like every point is match point. A true warrior on the right side, she brings relentless effort and impact in every rotation. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='771658' first='Jolie' last='Litvak'] is an explosive, natural athlete with jaw-dropping bounce. Her hangtime gives her rare mid-air vision, allowing her to swing with both power and precision. She gets around the block with ease and finishes plays with confidence. Quick in transition and smooth through her approach, Jolie plays big every time she's at the net. With her athleticism and presence, she's the kind of middle you'll definitely hear more about in championship play. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='771660' first='Avery' last='Russel'] is a high-IQ right side with the kind of court presence that keeps her team steady in high-pressure moments. She communicates clearly, talks through every point, and provides smart coverage — always in the right spot at the right time. Her block is strong, her instincts are sharp, and her calm intensity anchors the floor. A dependable contributor and a true team-first player, Avery brings leadership that doesn't always shout, but always shows. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='771793' first='Treasure' last='Ajator'] is a fierce, agile middle with the kind of speed and vertical that give her a real edge at the net. She closes blocks with precision, covers her hitters instinctively, and attacks with confidence and purpose. Her quick approach, fast reactions, and ability to adapt mid-play make her a versatile weapon. Whether it's a big-time block or a clutch swing, Treasure brings intensity and awareness to every moment. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='771691' first='Malissa' last='Jones'] is a tall, poised setter with soft hands and a sharp eye for offense. She moves the ball with intention, spreads her offense strategically, and isn't afraid to turn defense into attack — often putting up a solid block at the net herself. Her communication is constant, her court coverage is strong, and her leadership is unmistakable. Malissa directs traffic with calm control, making her a key playmaker and a true floor general with big-time upside. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald    <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/benchtobeast/">BenchtoBeast</a> for exclusive Georgia content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</h3>   We're on a mission to spotlight talent, uplift families, and bring the volleyball community closer than ever! Huge shoutout to our amazing subscribers — you're the heartbeat of this movement. Thank you for your help growing the game, and making every moment unforgettable. The best is yet to come — let's get it!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Building bridges between hustle and opportunity — that's the power of this community! ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtBeast

As the club season heads into its most high-stakes stretch — AAU Nationals and the final wave of major championship play — a handful of athletes are standing out as must-watch talent. These are the players making a name for themselves through grit, growth, and pure game. They've shown flashes of brilliance all season long, and now they're poised to break out when it matters most.