Texas State Semi's Loading

<p>Playoff season is coming to a close here in Texas and it has been a nail biter this season. Four teams are headed to state semi finals, battling it out to punch there ticket to the state tournaments in Garland, Texas next week. For 6A division 1, Allen takes on Ducanville while Cypress Ranch battles Lake Travis in the hopes for another week of volleyball. Here are some big players who are sure to put on a show this weekend. </p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Allen v. Duncanville</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Soleil Rhodes, sophomore RS for Allen high has rounded out an effective offensive line at the net next to Maya Ogbogu, Olivia Kitur, and Sayge Chandler. Putting up a solid block for opposing outside hitters, Soleil holds her own. With 240 kills from the opposite pin this season, she has made it clear tshe is a threat to consider from the pin. With her size, strength, and timing on the ball, there is no doubt she will be something for Duncanville to prepare their outside hitters for. </p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Sophia Kitur, freshman 6 rotation prospect for Allen high. Taking on the defensive role for her team this season. Able to swing strong and solid, she has stepped out in performing defensively. Bringing 91 digs in just 14 matches with this varsity team. A big spotlight on this game and Sophia does not seem to be backing down. A freshman with skill, work, and athleticism to compete at this level is surely something to see as the final games near.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Peyton Smith, a sophomore 6 rotation outside for a strong Duncanville team. Leading her team in several categories this season, Peyton can swing, serve, defend, and play with high energy. Her game is lethal from all positions on the court, she will find a way to be part of any and every play as the game progresses. She is a key factor to this Duncanville tempo. Standing at 6'0 her attack at the net is solid, and her ability to cover ground defensively is hard to stop. Peyton and the Panthers take on Allen tomorrow for an interesting semi-final match.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cypress Ranch v. Lake Travis</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Sade Bello, a phenom 6 rotation outside hitter for Cypress Ranch. Heading into the semis taking on Lake Travis this weekend, this junior hitter is coming in hot. Reaching over 600 kills and 500 digs this season, Sade is focused and committed to playing a had and fundamental game. With incredible footwork and an explosive attack on the ball, she will be tough to slow down at the net. Taking no breaks in the back row, she will bring a tough serve and disciplined defense. The only advice for opponents is, know where she is at all times! </p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Senior ,ds/libero, Xyanna Stephens wll be gracing the court this weekend with the Lake Travis Volleyball team taking on cypress Ranch in the battle for a trip to the state tournament. Xyanna has lead the defensive efforts of a strong Lake Travis team through the season with 750 digs going into this weekends match. Her ability to read the ball and utilize quick and efficient footwork to make the play is beyond impressive. Her fearless play and leadership will be put to the test this weekend, and it is clear she is up for the challenge.</p>    <p></p>

Playoff season is coming to a close here in Texas and it has been a nail biter this season. Four teams are headed to state semi finals, battling it out to punch there ticket to the state tournaments in Garland, Texas next week. For 6A division 1, Allen takes on Ducanville while Cypress Ranch battles Lake Travis in the hopes for another week of volleyball. Here are some big players who are sure to put on a show this weekend.