<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Another day down. Quarterfinals complete.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>Thursday's wave of quarterfinals brought Class C2, D1, and D2 into the postseason fray. This batch of tournament matches always delivers on drama and parity, giving us no shortage of standouts to discuss.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:paragraph -->
<p>So, let's restart the conversation.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["932954"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aec9e1bd1f89"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">We had a double dose of Ickes to choose from, with Tatum and Pyper both having exceptional seasons for Class D2's top seed. Tatum's reign of terror continued in a quarterfinal sweep over Sandhills/Thedford, where the sophomore's range and versatility shone. Ickes would often swing on the left and in the middle in the same rally, constantly shifting her blocking matchups. The semifinals will give us even more of that dynamic play.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["848988"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aec9e1bd202a"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">This was quite a sophomore showdown. Ray has been on our radar for a while, especially after she excelled on last year's Prep Dig Circuit. Her ball control skills are good enough to anchor the setter spot, but Ray is a full-time terminator for the Knights. She eclipsed three-and-a-half kills per set this fall and hovered around that mark during Thursday's duel with St. Mary's.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1059500"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aec9e1bd2088"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Wilcox-Hildreth gave us an early jolt of drama in Thursday's first time slot. Donley and the Falcons struck first in the quarterfinal meeting with Mullen, the No. 2 seed and a tournament-seasoned program. Donley worked in lockstep with junior [player_tooltip player_id='812149' first='Camryn' last='Bunger'] to establish Wilcox-Hildreth's physicality in the middle. But we also have to credit Donley's defensive work, which goes beyond what you'd expect from a middle-opposite hybrid attacker. The small-town scene is loaded with these do-everything gems, and this one hails from the Class of 2030.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1016439"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aec9e1bd20eb"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Mullen began to flex its strength with a massive comeback to swipe Set 2 of Thursday's contest. From there, McCully and her veteran crew found their stride. McCully has been in our coverage spotlight before, especially after the Mustangs made a positive impression at last year's tournament. Now, the junior middle blocker can build upon a team-best blocking performance while preparing for the semifinals.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1021088"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecc4034e7b8"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">What a pickup for the defending champs. Stewart stepped into the Wynot lineup and was an immediate go-to this fall. She fits the mold of so many past Blue Devils who were able to operate on either side of the setter. Stewart exhibited plenty of power en route to double-digit kills, but her well-placed tip shots down the line worked, too.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["932990"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecc4034e7e8"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">This was Crawford/Sioux County's first tournament appearance under the new co-op banner, but Holmgren looked like a savvy veteran among her peers. This sophomore pin hitter had been a stellar scorer for the Rams throughout 2026, but her defense was just as influential against Wynot's championship-caliber offense. Holmgren is a six-rotation building block for future success in the panhandle.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["737382"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecc4034e80a"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">This Hay Springs has always rallied around Young's ability to score from anywhere. She faced plenty of well-formed blocks against Bancroft-Rosalie, but this all-around middle blocker knows how to go around high hands. We didn't expect Young's backcourt presence to become a major storyline, but she was quick to reach a double-double in Thursday's matchup.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1060873"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aecc4034e829"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">This was an eye-opener for us. Bancroft-Rosalie played like the heavily favored team through much of its tilt with Hay Springs. The No. 6 team in Class D2 was not afraid to lean on underclassmen, and James was a pivotal leader in that group. Her out-of-system swings on the pipe were a game-changer, and her middle-back digs landed perfectly on target. A comeback effort in Set 3 sealed an opening-round stunner for James and the Panthers.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["735069"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aece35af07d7"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">This senior is indispensable. Stoklasa can seamlessly pivot between the middle and outside while being equally terminal in both roles. She favors the left pin in first-ball situations, allowing the Coyotes to feed her on any pass. Then, Stoklasa will light up the middle and become a stellar blocking anchor. She was the catalyst for Clarkson's resurgent effort in Set 2, putting D1's top seed on the ropes.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["702684"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aece35af085f"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Dugan reached a dozen kills by the early points of the second set, giving a small glimpse of her all-around prowess. Even if Dugan is in the back row, her athleticism is ready-made for outlet swings on the pipe. She's also not afraid to step in front of fellow passers to take the initiative on first-ball contacts.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["796366"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aece35af08a0"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Mitchell's workload exceeds the standard call of duty for a defensive specialist. Amherst frequently deployed a two-player passing pattern in Thursday's quarterfinal contest, challenging Mitchell to command her half of the court. This junior succeeded while also leading the Broncos with 12 digs in a straight-set win. Unsung heroes like Mitchell have been the driving force behind Amherst's tremendous recent history on the postseason stage.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["877315"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aece35af08cf"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Red Cloud's 1-2 punch at outside hitter has been a proven formula for postseason breakthroughs. Last year's appearance as Class D2's No. 8 seed laid the foundation for this year's No. 7 seed in D1. Faimon has been part of the equation throughout, using her effortless athleticism to sky over opposing blockers. And, like most pin hitters here, Faimon's work along the end line was particularly notable during a tilt with the 2025 D1 champs.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["961176"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2720"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Now we know why Kuchera commanded Nebraska's blocking leaderboard. This show-stopping middle blocker has free rein to patrol the net and anchor North Central's defense from pin to pin. Most attackers are a sure bet to score in one-on-one situations, but Kuchera has a knack for lining up on opposing middle blockers and putting up the roof. Her aptitude on the slide furthered her greatness during North Central's first-ever postseason appearance. And, fittingly, a block on match point locked up the five-set comeback.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["735200"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2775"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">There's something about Holtze in the quarterfinal round. We vividly recall her putting up nearly 30 kills in a three-set match in last year's opening round, so the senior had a high bar heading into Thursday's outing. She may not have had the video game numbers of 2025, but Holtze offered a final testament to her talent through terminal offense and precise setting. It was a dual-position affair for the senior.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["837995"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c27ba"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Hoesche has a springy, agile presence on the court that effectively reflects Tri County's entire lineup. The Trojans faced a hefty challenge in undefeated Bloomfield, but Hoesche brought the fearless attitude needed to square up with a juggernaut. She set the pace in the kill column while going pass-to-attack as a frontcourt hitter. Fittingly, she dropped in the final roll shot as Tri County secured a stunning reverse sweep over Bloomfield.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1016688"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2801"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">You won't be surprised that Bloomfield boasts some serious length at the net. Putting together an unblemished postseason record requires some assertive attackers on the outside, and Loecker has filled that role for the Queen Bees. She made an early impression in the quarterfinals through some indefensible crosscourt angles.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["737375"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2842"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Even as Stanton dealt with adversity and lineup shuffles in Thursday's quarterfinals, Marotz was the steady constant. That's par for the course after she put up some of Class C2's best kill numbers this fall. But this outside-middle hybrid also stepped up in a six-rotation capacity and was an ever-present participant in the passing pattern. Centura churned out some aggressive serves, but Marotz was up to the challenge.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1019448"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2881"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">We've noticed a common thread in Yutan's past two tournament appearances: the Chieftains know how to handle first touches. Of course, the libero is often at the center of that effort. Hancock has seen some attacking reps with Yutan, but her full-time libero role flourished at Thursday's quarterfinal. Even a high-powered squad like Thayer Central could now quell Hancock's sky-high production.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["838989"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c28cd"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Taukiuvea is so much more than an elite attacker with a whippy arm swing. Her intensity was immediately apparent as Centura traded blows with Stanton in an extended opening set. This junior is just as dangerous in her backcourt rotations, particularly when she dishes heat from the service line. Centura's historic 2026 season wouldn't have been possible without her.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["591604"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed2534c2910"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Add another brilliant small-town libero to the tally. Thayer Central's recent postseason success has been defined by ball control and defensive grit. Naturally, we pivot to the contrasting jersey. Marsh joined several of her fellow Titans with double-digit digs and put up an effort worthy of Class C2's top seed.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["778151"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed3b5157546"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Borrenpohl has seized the opportunity to run the show for Class C2's defending champs. We've seen her ball control range in the Nebraska Juniors gym, and that has translated into further strides with the Falcons. She is a stout defender in the right-back area, owing to her days as a defensive specialist. </p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["458132"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed3b5157569"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Thursday's meeting between Laurel-Concord-Coleridge and Freeman almost seemed nostalgic. These two programs battled in the Devaney Center for last year's state title, and now they were quarterfinal rivals in PBA. Kvols didn't take long to register incredible assist numbers, building upon a record-shattering career with the Bears.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["737401"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed3b5157589"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">One record-breaking setter deserves another. Guardian Angels Central Catholic has leaned on Cohee's quick hands since her early days as a freshman. She has since amassed nearly 3,000 total assists and another fruitful quarterfinal match in Lincoln. We could easily focus on GACC's vast frontcourt talent, but Cohee is the binding agent for all of them.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
<!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["735210"],"_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"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6aed3b51575a9"} -->
<!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} -->
<p class="text-gray-700">Sure, we'll put one more C2 setter on the tally. This class is stacked with decorated veterans at this position, and Cansler asserted herself through Thursday night's performance. Senior setters have a way of stepping up in these high-pressure moments, and Cansler responded well after a slow start against GACC. It only feels right to welcome a powerhouse like Bergan back to the state tournament.</p>
<!-- /wp:paragraph -->
<!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->
Another day down. Quarterfinals complete.
Thursday's wave of quarterfinals brought Class C2, D1, and D2 into the postseason fray. This batch of tournament matches always delivers on drama and parity, giving us no shortage of standouts to discuss.
We had a double dose of Ickes to choose from, with Tatum and Pyper both having exceptional seasons for Class D2's top seed. Tatum's reign of terror continued in a quarterfinal sweep over Sandhills/Thedford, where the sophomore's range and versatility…
This was quite a sophomore showdown. Ray has been on our radar for a while, especially after she excelled on last year's Prep Dig Circuit. Her ball control skills are good enough to anchor the setter spot, but Ray is…
Wilcox-Hildreth gave us an early jolt of drama in Thursday's first time slot. Donley and the Falcons struck first in the quarterfinal meeting with Mullen, the No. 2 seed and a tournament-seasoned program. Donley worked in lockstep with junior [player_tooltip…
Mullen began to flex its strength with a massive comeback to swipe Set 2 of Thursday's contest. From there, McCully and her veteran crew found their stride. McCully has been in our coverage spotlight before, especially after the Mustangs made…
What a pickup for the defending champs. Stewart stepped into the Wynot lineup and was an immediate go-to this fall. She fits the mold of so many past Blue Devils who were able to operate on either side of the…
This was Crawford/Sioux County's first tournament appearance under the new co-op banner, but Holmgren looked like a savvy veteran among her peers. This sophomore pin hitter had been a stellar scorer for the Rams throughout 2026, but her defense was…
This Hay Springs has always rallied around Young's ability to score from anywhere. She faced plenty of well-formed blocks against Bancroft-Rosalie, but this all-around middle blocker knows how to go around high hands. We didn't expect Young's backcourt presence to…
This was an eye-opener for us. Bancroft-Rosalie played like the heavily favored team through much of its tilt with Hay Springs. The No. 6 team in Class D2 was not afraid to lean on underclassmen, and James was a pivotal…
This senior is indispensable. Stoklasa can seamlessly pivot between the middle and outside while being equally terminal in both roles. She favors the left pin in first-ball situations, allowing the Coyotes to feed her on any pass. Then, Stoklasa will…
Dugan reached a dozen kills by the early points of the second set, giving a small glimpse of her all-around prowess. Even if Dugan is in the back row, her athleticism is ready-made for outlet swings on the pipe. She's…
Mitchell's workload exceeds the standard call of duty for a defensive specialist. Amherst frequently deployed a two-player passing pattern in Thursday's quarterfinal contest, challenging Mitchell to command her half of the court. This junior succeeded while also leading the Broncos…
Red Cloud's 1-2 punch at outside hitter has been a proven formula for postseason breakthroughs. Last year's appearance as Class D2's No. 8 seed laid the foundation for this year's No. 7 seed in D1. Faimon has been part of…
Now we know why Kuchera commanded Nebraska's blocking leaderboard. This show-stopping middle blocker has free rein to patrol the net and anchor North Central's defense from pin to pin. Most attackers are a sure bet to score in one-on-one situations, but Kuchera has a knack for lining up on opposing middle blockers and putting up the roof. Her aptitude on the slide furthered her greatness during North Central's first-ever postseason appearance. And, fittingly, a block on match point locked up the five-set comeback.
Evaluations are normally subscriber-only but when an athlete subscribes, theirs becomes free for all readers.
Subscribing doesn't change who the Scout covers, it changes who gets to see it.
There's something about Holtze in the quarterfinal round. We vividly recall her putting up nearly 30 kills in a three-set match in last year's opening round, so the senior had a high bar heading into Thursday's outing. She may not…
Hoesche has a springy, agile presence on the court that effectively reflects Tri County's entire lineup. The Trojans faced a hefty challenge in undefeated Bloomfield, but Hoesche brought the fearless attitude needed to square up with a juggernaut. She set…
You won't be surprised that Bloomfield boasts some serious length at the net. Putting together an unblemished postseason record requires some assertive attackers on the outside, and Loecker has filled that role for the Queen Bees. She made an early…
Even as Stanton dealt with adversity and lineup shuffles in Thursday's quarterfinals, Marotz was the steady constant. That's par for the course after she put up some of Class C2's best kill numbers this fall. But this outside-middle hybrid also…
We've noticed a common thread in Yutan's past two tournament appearances: the Chieftains know how to handle first touches. Of course, the libero is often at the center of that effort. Hancock has seen some attacking reps with Yutan, but…
Taukiuvea is so much more than an elite attacker with a whippy arm swing. Her intensity was immediately apparent as Centura traded blows with Stanton in an extended opening set. This junior is just as dangerous in her backcourt rotations,…
Add another brilliant small-town libero to the tally. Thayer Central's recent postseason success has been defined by ball control and defensive grit. Naturally, we pivot to the contrasting jersey. Marsh joined several of her fellow Titans with double-digit digs and…
Borrenpohl has seized the opportunity to run the show for Class C2's defending champs. We've seen her ball control range in the Nebraska Juniors gym, and that has translated into further strides with the Falcons. She is a stout defender…
Thursday's meeting between Laurel-Concord-Coleridge and Freeman almost seemed nostalgic. These two programs battled in the Devaney Center for last year's state title, and now they were quarterfinal rivals in PBA. Kvols didn't take long to register incredible assist numbers, building upon a record-shattering career with the Bears.
Evaluations are normally subscriber-only but when an athlete subscribes, theirs becomes free for all readers.
Subscribing doesn't change who the Scout covers, it changes who gets to see it.
One record-breaking setter deserves another. Guardian Angels Central Catholic has leaned on Cohee's quick hands since her early days as a freshman. She has since amassed nearly 3,000 total assists and another fruitful quarterfinal match in Lincoln. We could easily…
Sure, we'll put one more C2 setter on the tally. This class is stacked with decorated veterans at this position, and Cansler asserted herself through Thursday night's performance. Senior setters have a way of stepping up in these high-pressure moments,…