Missouri’s Class of 2027: Top Middle Hitters to Watch

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The class of 2027 in Missouri is truly a powerhouse, especially when it comes to middle hitters. Spanning from Saint Louis to Kansas City, and from Columbia to Springfield, this group is not only talented but also diverse, featuring a blend of Division 1 prospects and elite players. Let's dive into the profiles of some of the standout middles who are poised to make a significant impact this season. As we watch their journeys unfold, it will be exciting to see how they elevate their teams.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["489911"],"_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-6a73626ef1125"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Emory has consistently been one of the most effective middle hitters in Missouri throughout her high school career. With a remarkable career hitting percentage of .379, she reached an impressive .480 last season with only 54 errors. Her high volleyball IQ, quick vertical leap, and ability to find optimal hitting spots make her a formidable opponent. To maintain her impressive hitting average, Emory will need even more opportunities this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["544673"],"_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-6a73626ef11aa"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The Mizzou commit enters her final season with her college plans already secured. Standing at 6'3", Marlee is a dominant presence in the middle, utilizing her height and wingspan to stifle opposing attacks. She boasts a .315 career hitting percentage and will be pivotal for Lindbergh as they aim for a district title. Marlee's performance will be crucial; her ability to deliver consistently will make her a player to watch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["809456"],"_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-6a73626ef1207"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Sienna led Class 5 in blocks last season with 123, bringing her career total to 319. Currently ranked 17th for career blocks on the MSHSAA website, she has a strong chance to break into the top 10 with another stellar season. As a Lindenwood commit, Sienna has proven herself as a wall at the net, making her one of the most formidable defenders in the state.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["776733"],"_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-6a73626ef125d"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">In her first season as a starting middle for the state champions, Peyton played an integral role in their success. She finished in the top 10 for blocks with 104 and added 190 kills. With her club experience with Rockwood Thunder enhancing her skills, Peyton is poised for an even more impactful offensive season this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["444641"],"_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-6a73626ef12b3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">The 6'2" middle has significantly improved after her season with MAVS KC 17-Elite in the open division. While her slide attack has become more effective, her ability to stay in front of the setter remains her strongest asset. If she can develop a consistent slide, Hailey has the potential to be one of the top middles in the Kansas City area. Her standout performance last fall, with 13 kills and a .500 hitting percentage in the final match of the season, showcases her talent.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["875654"],"_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-6a73626ef1307"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Mid-MO gets in the mix with Sadie as the 6'2" middle had a fantastic club season with Missouri Juniors, and now we will see the improvement transition to high school. Sadie is a force for the Kewpies and had some monster games last fall. Notable was a double-double against Southern Boone, where she finished with 13 kills and 13 blocks.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["485631"],"_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-6a73626ef135a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">A four-year starter for the Eagles, Piper has been a consistent offensive weapon and has 404 career kills, so the 500 milestone shouldn't be a problem. Piper is a versatile middle who hits a nice slide, but what makes her so tough is her ability to swing on either pin. With another big blocking season, Piper could end up with over 300 career blocks. Watch as her numbers increase in her final season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->