Still Available: 2026 Prospects Headed to the TC Summer NIT

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Thank you to our PrepDig subscribers for supporting exclusive coverage of the inaugural Triple Crown Summer NIT in Mesa, Arizona.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This invite-only event brings together top talent from across the country in the 14U–17U divisions, serving as one of the final high-impact evaluation periods before Nationals. For 2026 athletes, it's a key window to leave a recruiting impression, with many college programs actively finalizing their classes. The format also provides crucial touch points for player-coach engagement, both through performance and off-the-court direct conversations.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the lead-up to the event, I asked a group of 2026 athletes to reflect on their preparation, their role within their team, and what they hope college coaches recognize in both their play and their character. Their answers offer valuable insight into their maturity, self-awareness, and readiness for the next level. These are athletes who are not only chasing development on the court but also seeking the right program fit off of it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Below, you'll find eight concise spotlights, each one grounded in a direct quote and framed to help college coaches understand the value these athletes bring.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["480172"],"_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-684096cfbfe57"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='480172' first='Grace' last='Kelley'] has put in the work to transform herself into a high-value contributor who impacts both sides of the ball. For programs still looking to add a driven and reliable competitor to their 2026 class, she deserves serious consideration.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Grace is focused on expanding her offensive range and sharpening her blocking decisions at the Triple Crown Summer NIT. She has been working deliberately on her quicks, especially ones and slides, while studying hitters' body language and setter cues to improve her timing and read. Her goal is to become a more dynamic and consistent presence at the net, capable of delivering offensively and serving as a reliable anchor on the block.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Grace describes herself as a passionate contributor who thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure situations. “I'm always ready to be an option and stay aggressive, but my favorite part of the game is getting just as fired up for my teammates' success as I do for my own.” Coaches will notice her high energy, vocal presence, and commitment to team chemistry. Grace brings purpose to every rep, taking pride in the work that helps her teammates succeed and the momentum that keeps her team connected. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["780402"],"_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-68409b10953c2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='780402' first='Xanthe' last='Ocampo'], a defensive specialist, is heading into the Triple Crown Summer NIT with a focus on two key areas: serve receive consistency and defensive grit. She's been intentional in her training, prioritizing technique and high-rep touches to prepare for the level of competition ahead. Equally important to her is bringing energy and vocal leadership, especially in tough moments, and she's been practicing those habits by staying loud and competitive during team sessions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Xanthe sees herself as a steady and reliable presence, someone her teammates can trust when the game tightens. “I hope college coaches notice how much grit and hard work I put out on the court and my overall passion for the game.” She plays with a free and joyful spirit, always working to lift those around her. Xanthe's ability to bring both consistency and enthusiasm makes her an asset to any program looking for a DS with both substance and spark. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["552687"],"_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-68409b109546d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='552687' first='Lexi' last='Seres'], a libero, is approaching the Triple Crown Summer NIT with a mindset rooted in leadership and mental toughness. Rather than focusing solely on physical execution, she has prioritized the emotional demands of high-level competition, committing to bring steady energy and composure no matter the score. She's prepared by pushing herself in practice and staying focused on how her presence helps her team stay grounded and compete through momentum shifts.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">As a team captain and first-contact specialist, Lexi embraces her role as both a stabilizer and a leader. “I want coaches to be able to notice how I take control of the court and am always reading and communicating throughout the game.” She prides herself on setting up the offense through clean serve receive and smart digs, even in out-of-system situations. Off the court, Lexi brings the same level of discipline and drive, excelling academically, leading in student organizations, and volunteering in her community. Her work ethic and commitment extend well beyond the gym. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["747854"],"_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-684096cfbfedc"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='747854' first='Orinayo' last='Olukanmi'], a right-side and outside hitter, heads to the Triple Crown Summer NIT with a clear focus: play with confidence, stay consistent, and compete with intent. She's been building toward that goal through extra reps, strength training, and sharpening the details that often separate good from great. Her preparation reflects a mature approach to growth, intention, discipline, and rooted in maximizing every opportunity to contribute.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">As a steady presence on the court, Orinayo prides herself on being dependable in tight moments and fueling her team with energy and communication. “I want coaches to notice my drive to perfect the little things and how I'm competitive, aggressive, and coachable in matches.” She plays with the purpose of elevating the team, not just chasing her own stats. Off the court, she brings the same level of commitment to academics and life balance, showing the discipline and creativity that will serve her well at the next level. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["577316"],"_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-68409b10954fe"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='577316' first='Eden' last='Cha'], a outside hitter, enters the Triple Crown Summer NIT focused on expanding her offensive versatility and strengthening her passing game. She has been putting in extra touches during practices and club camps, emphasizing repetition and technique refinement to round out her skill set. Her goal is to be a steady contributor who can execute with control and adaptability on both sides of the ball.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Eden describes herself as a quiet but drama-free presence who values connection and consistency. “I hope coaches notice that despite the mistakes I make, I always try to smile through it.” Her ability to stay composed and positive in challenging moments reflects maturity and self-awareness. Off the court, she is intentional about including others and paying attention to the details that build strong team culture. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["726460"],"_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-684096cfbff4a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='726460' first='Kiyomi' last='Kohno'] approaches the Triple Crown Summer NIT with clear intention and focus. With the season nearing its end, she sees this tournament as a key opportunity to reflect her growth and maximize her impact. Kiyomi has dedicated time to technical refinement, strength training, and mental preparation, all with the goal of playing at her highest level when it matters most.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">As a leader on the court, Kiyomi understands the importance of setting the tone during moments of adversity. “I hope to lead not through just my words, but by my energy, effort, and drive.” She is a steady presence who works to reinforce a competitive mindset across the team. Coaches will see a driven, coachable athlete who thrives on feedback, leads by example, and shows the same discipline off the court through strong academics and consistent team-first values. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["706297"],"_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-6840b218a0152"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='706297' first='Emma' last='Lucchesi'], an opposite and outside hitter, is approaching the Triple Crown Summer NIT as a chance to elevate her game through high-level competition. She views this event as a stepping stone for her team's preparation for Nationals and has embraced tough, mentally demanding training sessions to build the mindset required to compete. Her focus is on using every rep this weekend to grow as a player and contribute to her team's momentum.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Emma plays a key role as a blocking presence on the right and as a point-scorer who manages the ball with purpose. “I hope colleges notice my competitiveness and energy when I am playing.” She brings fire to her game but also to her team, taking pride in lifting up her teammates and keeping the bench and court connected. Her love for the game is matched by the support she shows to those around her, making her an energetic and team-driven athlete on and off the court. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["569598"],"_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-6840d25dcec09"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='569598' first='Gabby' last='Muller'], an outside hitter, defensive specialist, and libero is using the Triple Crown Summer NIT to sharpen her performance ahead of GJNC. Her focus is on competing with consistency, representing her team well against top-level opponents, and continuing to build momentum heading into Nationals. She's been preparing through high-effort practices, smart nutrition, and staying mentally focused for the challenges ahead.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Gabby has embraced a versatile role this season, contributing across multiple positions including outside hitter, libero, and DS. “I hope college coaches notice the energy I bring on and off the court and the leadership skills I have.” She leads by example and thrives in environments where she's pushed to perform. Gabby's work ethic, competitive mindset, and adaptability make her a valuable asset to teams needing a flexible, coachable athlete who can impact the game in several ways. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, please help us keep the momentum going!</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:image {"id":770392,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"left"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_b3bd7c.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770392" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>✨ <strong>Help a player get discovered </strong>— share this article using the share buttons and tag us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en"><strong>PrepDigCa</strong></a>!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"lightbox":{"enabled":false},"id":770394,"width":"98px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"custom","align":"left"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_ff10cb.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770394" style="width:98px;height:auto" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>🚀 <strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Upgrade to a </a><a href="https://prepdig.com/my-account/subscriptions/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PrepDig+ Subscription</a></strong> — exclusive rankings, in-depth analysis, and access to the full <a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/"><strong>prospect index</strong></a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"lightbox":{"enabled":false},"id":770395,"width":"106px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"custom","align":"left"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_4421fb.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770395" style="width:106px;height:auto" /></a></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>📍 <strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">Come get on our radar!</a></strong> — attend an upcoming<strong> <a href="https://prepdig.com/all-events/?type=Showcase">PrepDig Event</a></strong>:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 13</strong> – Ripon (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 14</strong> – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 24</strong> – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 1 (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>June 29</strong> – USAV GJNC Showcase – Session 2 (Classes of 2026–2029)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>August 23</strong> – Rancho Santa Margarita (Classes of 2030–2032)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:separator --> <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" /> <!-- /wp:separator --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><em><strong>Together</strong>,</em><strong> </strong>we're building a positive platform to celebrate players and connect the volleyball community through exposure and opportunity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong><em>To all of our subscribers</em></strong> — thank you for being such an essential part of this journey. Let's keep growing the game and creating unforgettable memories together.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong><em>This journey</em></strong> is powered by the village — athletes, coaches, families, and the subscribers who support the sport.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p><strong>Thank you for making it all possible — one article, one player, one memory at a time.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>~ Michelle Bamford @<a href="https://www.coachable247.com/">Coachable247</a></em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->