Up Next Texas Defenders to See

<p>The classes of 2031-33 turned heads at the Dallas Up Next Showcase this past Saturday. There was so much energy and potential in the Excel facility, the next gen players are going to be something to see! In this game, one of the tough lessons to drive home is the importance of defense. This group is ready for it. We talked about the impressive offense brought to the floor, but now it's time to shout out some defensive dawgs that will be on the court this season.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Up Next Hitters </h2>   <p>If you hadn't caught up on the hitters spotted at Dallas Up Next, give them a read and stay tuned for setters and middles to come!</p>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><a href="https://prepdig.com/?p=1011660">https://prepdig.com/2026/08/up-next-spotlight-hitters/↗</a><br></li> </ul>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defenders to See</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='776969' first='Azi' last='Gonzales'] ds/libero from Rockwall with the energy and attitude for the court. Her hustle and all out effort to make a play set her apart in position drills and carried over to her 6 on 6 play. Azi does not hesitate to go for the ball no matter the play. Her hustle and fundamentals push her to get a touch on every ball on her side of the court. </p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Stella Thomas, a 2031 rising ds/l, committed to 1United for the upcoming club season, came in ready to work at the Dallas Up Next Showcase yesterday. She brought the fundamentals and the speed necessary to run the back row. Showing impressive footwork and read time on the play, Stella does the little things to ensure she can make an intentional effort to keep rallies alive. Her effort, her energy, and overall understanding of the game show great promise in her ability to grow in this game. </p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Harper Shirley, a loud and communicative ds/l from the class of 2031, came in with the energy. Clearly comfortable on the court, Harper ran the back row with little hesitation and great communication. Point after point she encourages her team and keeps spirits high as the game progresses. Defensively she is quick and fearless to cover the corners and keep play going.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='994073' first='Sutton' last='Farris'], 5'0 Ds/libero, brought all the energy to the Up Next Showcase this weekend. Her effort and energy did not go unnoticed throughout live play. She takes the extra step to constantly communicate with those on the court with her, pushing players beside her to match the energy and tempo she sets from the back row. Sutton plays a competitive game and maintains the hustle and attitude it takes to run the defense.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Kamsirochi Osuagwu, a 6 rotation player, noted for her footwork and transition this weekend, emphasized what it means to keep moving on he court. Pushing the tempo when she is on the court and keeping a defensive mindset throughout play. Moving well behind the ball and communicating with her teammates as plays develop, Kamisirochi is ready to up the tempo.</p>

The classes of 2031-33 turned heads at the Dallas Up Next Showcase this past Saturday. There was so much energy and potential in the Excel facility, the next gen players are going to be something to see! In this game, one of the tough lessons to drive home is the importance of defense. This group is ready for it. We talked about the impressive offense brought to the floor, but now it's time to shout out some defensive dawgs that will be on the court this season.