16Open January Classic: Middle Magic final

<p>One of my favorite things to see in a game is an aggressive middle blocker. And the teams at the January Classic had many such players. I've gone through a few middles that stood out this past weekend. If you missed the first two rounds of this list, go check them out. There are just a few more rockstars to mention from my weekend at the Ryse Center, and they are here!</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other Middles to Note: </h2>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://prepdig.com/2026/01/16open-january-classic-middle-magic/">https://prepdig.com/2026/01/16open-january-classic-middle-magic/</a></li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://prepdig.com/2026/01/16open-january-classic-middle-magic-pt-2/">https://prepdig.com/2026/01/16open-january-classic-middle-magic-pt-2/</a><br></li> </ul>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Middle Magic Cont.</h2>    <p>[player_tooltip player_id='912514' first='Finley' last='Kjellstrom'] is a dynamic middle blocker for No Limits 16 Elite who brings speed and versatility to the court. She transitions quickly and efficiently. Her athleticism allows her to get up fast for a quick swing that puts pressure on opposing defenses. Finley also confidently steps into the backcourt ready to contribute when needed. Her ability to impact the game in multiple phases makes her a reliable and well-rounded presence for her team.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='822064' first='Kami' last='James'] is a serving middle for Fort Worth Fire 16.1 who plays with intelligence and purpose. As part of a high-hustle team, she matches that energy by staying engaged in every rally. Kami is especially smart with her hits using placement and awareness to score efficiently rather than relying solely on power. Her ability to read the court and make disciplined decisions makes her a valuable offensive piece.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Simone Bivens is a dominant middle blocker for TAV 16 Black. She makes a strong impact on both sides of the net.Bivens covers a lot of ground and consistently puts up a formidable block, making play difficult for opponents. Simone combines her size with impressive agility, allowing her to move efficiently and stay involved in plays across the court. Her physical presence and athleticism make her any coach's ideal middle and a key defensive anchor for her team.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='827286' first='Naomi' last='Odjegba'] is a middle blocker for [program_tooltip program_id='431321' first='Texas' last='Image'] 16 Black who stands out for her speed and technical efficiency. She has great footwork that allows her to get to the ball quickly. Naomi's ability to stay balanced and on time makes her effective at the net and reliable in fast-paced situations. Her quickness and attention to detail help her consistently be in the right place to make a play.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Micah Wooton is a middle blocker for NRG 16 AMPD White who brings a commanding presence at the net. She plays aggressively in games, attacking with a powerful swing and putting up a strong, assertive block. Micah also extends that intensity to the service line, using her serve to apply constant pressure. Her physicality and competitive mindset make her a tone-setter and a key impact player for her team.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Aniyah Tatum is a middle blocker for Excel 16 White who plays with patience and strength at the net. She never rushes a play, allowing her to stay composed and make smart, controlled decisions in game situations. Aniyah shows great timing with her setters, which helps her be effective and efficient in the middle attack. Defensively, she is a strong presence with a solid block, using her positioning and discipline to consistently make plays.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Paisley Hopper is a middle for Northpoint 16. She brings great energy to the court and consistently lifts up her teammates with her encouraging presence. She plays with confidence and purpose, using a strong, aggressive swing to be a constant offensive threat. Paisley does an excellent job placing the ball into deep corners and showing smart hits. She has the ability to score big points when her team needs it most. Her combination of positivity, effort, and effective attacking makes her a valuable asset in every match.</p>

One of my favorite things to see in a game is an aggressive middle blocker. And the teams at the January Classic had many such players. I've gone through a few middles that stood out this past weekend. If you missed the first two rounds of this list, go check them out. There are just a few more rockstars to mention from my weekend at the Ryse Center, and they are here!