Next-Level MB/RS: 2026 Watch List

The 2026 class is loaded with athletic and versatile middle and right-side hitters who can change the game on both offense and defense. From powerful swings to dominant blocking and smart court awareness, these players are making their mark at the high school level and are ones to watch as they continue to develop.   👉 Be sure to follow me on social media for more player spotlights (X or IG @coachmadib), and share these features on your own socials to help these athletes gain exposure! If you're interested in being written about, message me on Instagram @coachmadib.    “[player_tooltip player_id='556160' first='Kennedy' last='Adams'] is a 5'11” Middle Blocker from Summer Creek High School who establishes herself as an athletic and highly offensive presence at the net. She gets up quickly, demonstrating impressive timing and explosiveness, and shows remarkable versatility in her attack, consistently driving the ball with pace toward both corners. Kennedy also excels at reading overpasses and out-of-system balls, converting them into powerful, consistent kills that put pressure on the defense. Beyond her offensive skill set, she is a smart and competitive player who moves well laterally, adjusts to blockers effectively, and contributes to her team's overall tempo. Kennedy's combination of athleticism, court awareness, and work ethic make her a standout at the high school level, and she is a player to continue watching this season. With her talent and dedication, she would be a valuable contributor to any college program seeking a dynamic, high-impact middle blocker.     Alana Evens is a 5'10” middle/right-side who, despite her slightly smaller stature, stands out due to her exceptional athleticism and work ethic. She consistently gets high off the floor, allowing her to attack effectively against taller blockers, and possesses a strong, powerful arm that makes her a constant offensive threat. She can score both up the middle and from the right side, showing versatility and smart court awareness in her hitting choices. Beyond her physical abilities, Alana is a player who never gives up and consistently brings energy and intensity to every play. She reads the game well, adjusts quickly to different situations, and contributes both offensively and defensively. As she finishes out her senior year, she has proven to be a reliable and dynamic presence on the court, making her a standout player for her team.     [player_tooltip player_id='550013' first='Taylor' last='Fenton'], committed to the University of Central Oklahoma, is a 5'11” middle who brings impact on both offense and defense. She establishes a strong presence at the net with her powerful blocking ability while also running effective attacks up the middle, both in front of and behind the setter. Taylor gets up exceptionally high, giving her an advantage over blockers, and demonstrates a high volleyball IQ, reading the setter and the opposing offense quickly to close blocks efficiently. Her combination of athleticism, smart play, and versatility makes her a key contributor on every possession, and she is a player who can consistently change the momentum of a match and will make an impact in college!     [player_tooltip player_id='727215' first='Briana' last='Isham'], standing at 6'3”, is a versatile middle blocker and right-side hitter who brings a high level of competitive energy to the court. She is a constant offensive threat, capable of swinging with power both up the middle and from the right side, keeping defenses off balance. Her height and timing make her a formidable presence at the net, allowing her to produce big blocks and consistently score points with well-timed hits. Briana also excels at controlling the pace of the game, earning key slow-down points that shift momentum in her team's favor. With her combination of size, athleticism, and intensity, she is a player who can impact every aspect of the match and is someone to watch closely this season.

The 2026 class is loaded with athletic and versatile middle and right-side hitters who can change the game on both offense and defense. From powerful swings to dominant blocking and smart court awareness, these players are making their mark at the high school level and are ones to watch as they continue to develop.