Stock Up Showcase 2025: Impactful Middles Still on the Board

<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30   If there's one position that demands nonstop grit, quick reactions, and fearless energy—it's the middle blocker. It's not for the faint of heart. These athletes are the heartbeat of the net, expected to close blocks pin to pin, transition fast, and deliver terminal swings in the middle of chaos. The job isn't always glamorous, but when it's done right—it changes the entire flow of a match.   The middle requires more than height. It takes timing, anticipation, toughness, and volleyball IQ. And this group of 2027 middles brought it all. Each one stood out in their own way—some with big block touches, others with fast footwork or fearless slides—but all of them brought intensity to the court that couldn't be ignored.   At the Minnesota Stock Up, these middles proved they belong in the conversation. Whether it was stuffing top attackers or putting away fast-tempo balls, they showed every reason why they deserve a spot on a college roster.   Still uncommitted and very much up for grabs, these middles are on the rise—and if you're looking to add a game-changer at the net, these are names you need to know. Let's meet them.    [player_tooltip player_id='815764' first='Leila' last='Colvin'] was the middle to watch at the Minnesota Stock Up Showcase—hands down my top pick at the position. She's an explosive athlete who wastes no time getting off the ground, and her first-step speed out of transition sets her apart. Colvin showed the ability to close blocks pin-to-pin with urgency and consistency, reading hitters early and sealing the net with strong hands.   Offensively, she ran a dynamic tempo with both front and back quicks, and wasn't afraid to attack with range—mixing in hard cross, fast tempo swings, and the occasional slide with smooth footwork. Her quick lateral movement allowed her to be a constant presence at the net defensively, altering shots even when not getting the block.   Colvin competes with fire, shows a high volleyball IQ, and plays with the urgency and grit that makes a middle not just productive, but dangerous. She's a 2027 prospect who checks every box.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2QtYxz">http://www.hudl.com/v/2QtYxz</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='586792' first='Deaija' last='Wheaton'] brought instant energy every time she stepped on the floor at the Minnesota Stock Up Showcase. She's the kind of middle who changes momentum—not just with physicality, but with presence. Vocal, engaged, and energetic, Wheaton was a spark plug who rallied her team with every block touch and aggressive transition.   She runs hard off the net, keeps her approach tempo fast, and consistently stays available as a threat in the middle zone. Defensively, she's active on the read, showed fast lateral mobility, and got a ton of touches that disrupted hitters. Her ability to cover seams and close with authority made her a blocking force throughout the day.   Wheaton has the tools and intangibles you want in a middle: energy, court awareness, and a hunger to make plays. She's a 2027 to keep a close eye on.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2QKTfa">http://www.hudl.com/v/2QKTfa</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='828428' first='Sasha' last='Deans'] quietly earned respect at the Minnesota Stock Up Showcase with her coachability, positional awareness, and emerging offensive tools. She's a middle who plays with purpose—consistently executing fast footwork on her slides and quicks, while adjusting her tempo with setters throughout the day.   What stood out most was her willingness to be coached. Every rep, she locked in on feedback and made real-time improvements—something you can't teach. Deans showed flashes of quick-twitch explosiveness, especially when attacking in front of the setter, and proved she can track attackers well in read-block situations.   There's untapped upside here. With her size, learning curve, and discipline at the net, Deans is a middle worth investing in for programs looking to develop strong, team-first players who bring effort and energy every rotation.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q7040">http://www.hudl.com/v/2Q7040</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='809736' first='Lauren' last='Bell'] was one of the most dominant front-row presences at the Minnesota Stock Up Showcase. A true impact middle, Bell consistently shut down attackers at both pins with disciplined eye work and strong lateral movement along the net. Her blocking instincts are advanced, and she brings a physicality that instantly alters opposing offenses.   What sets Bell apart is her versatility—while she's a natural middle, she showed no hesitation moving to the outside and generating explosive offense from both pins. Her ability to adapt in real-time while still maintaining a team-first approach speaks volumes about her volleyball IQ and character.   Bell plays with urgency and fire, but her court demeanor stays composed and confident. She's uncommitted—but not for long. Any program looking for a high-motor front row player with multi-positional upside should have [player_tooltip player_id='809736' first='Lauren' last='Bell'] on their radar.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2SMKm8">http://www.hudl.com/v/2SMKm8</a>     [player_tooltip player_id='582986' first='Maryn' last='Yunker'] plays the middle position with a mature blend of volleyball IQ and tactical awareness. She understands when to bring power and when to disrupt defenses with well-placed shots—something that stood out immediately at the Minnesota Stock Up Showcase.   Yunker's court vision and timing allow her to find seams in the block and exploit them with efficiency. She's not just swinging to swing—she's making decisions mid-play and reading the defense before the ball crosses the net. Defensively, she tracks setters well and closes blocks with purpose, showing solid footwork and communication.   Coachable, composed, and driven, [player_tooltip player_id='582986' first='Maryn' last='Yunker'] brings an elevated understanding of the position and is the kind of player who makes those around her better. She's a smart middle still on the board—and one to keep close tabs on.   ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas   <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2Qim2J">http://www.hudl.com/v/2Qim2J</a>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</h2>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @prepdigdakotas</h4>

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