High School News: Who Is Leading The State In Assist?

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to Prep Dig using discount code digdakotas30</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>When it comes to running an offense in volleyball, no position demands more skill, IQ, and poise under pressure than the <strong>setter</strong>. Often referred to as the “quarterback” of the court, a setter is responsible for more than just delivering the ball—they are the decision-makers, the pace-setters, and the heart of the attack.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In South Dakota, where the game is played fast, physical, and smart, setters have to do it all:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Vision:</strong> reading blockers and anticipating defensive shifts.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Touch:</strong> delivering consistent, hittable balls across the court.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Leadership:</strong> directing traffic and keeping their team composed when rallies stretch long.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>IQ:</strong> knowing when to speed up tempo, when to feed the hot hand, and when to take the unexpected dump.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>It's a position that requires hours of repetition, relentless communication, and a confidence that rallies teammates around them. Without a setter in rhythm, even the strongest hitters can be neutralized.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This week, the numbers don't lie—South Dakota has five setters who are leading the state in <strong>assists</strong> and proving why they are among the most valuable players on the court. These are the athletes who not only rack up stats but also make their hitters shine, elevate their teams, and show college-level promise in the way they command the floor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>So who are the floor generals making it happen early this season? Let's break down the <strong>Top 5 assist leaders in South Dakota right now.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["725179"],"_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-68c21f076bf29"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>🏐 1. [player_tooltip player_id='725179' first='Kali' last='Reiners'] – Spearfish (237 assists, 9.1 A/S)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='725179' first='Kali' last='Reiners'] has been nothing short of outstanding to start the season, leading South Dakota in total assists. What sets her apart is her ability to run a balanced, unpredictable offense. She has the touch to connect seamlessly with her middles, the consistency to keep her pins in rhythm, and the vision to keep defenses guessing. Beyond just stats, Reiners is a setter who controls tempo with poise and confidence—whether she's running quicks, back sets, or disguising the dump.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>College Value:</strong> At the next level, Reiners' ability to distribute to all zones with precision makes her an immediate system fit. Her leadership and ability to run an offense at a high tempo are traits that college coaches covet. With a deep skill set and proven production, she has the tools to quarterback a program at the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Highlights: </strong><a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2QACJP">http://www.hudl.com/v/2QACJP</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Tenley Anderson","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2029","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'5u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32561","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Dell Rapids","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68c21f076c141"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>🏐 2. Tenley Anderson – Dell Rapids (201 assists, 9.6 A/S)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Tenley Anderson isn't just second on the leaderboard—she's operating with incredible efficiency, averaging nearly 10 assists per set. Her quick release and ability to deliver balls in-system or out-of-system make her invaluable. Anderson shines under pressure, using her IQ to identify hot hitters and keep plays alive with smart decisions.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>College Value:</strong> Anderson's fast tempo setting style will translate seamlessly into a high-level collegiate system. Her combination of athleticism and court awareness makes her a setter who can step in early and impact an offense. Coaches looking for a leader who maximizes her hitters will find Anderson's style highly attractive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>Highlights:</strong> <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/27559818/68c086e4c5193763f8894078">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/27559818/68c086e4c5193763f8894078</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Kynsee Russell","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'6u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32561","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Watertown","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68c21f076c2d2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">🏐 3. Kynsee Russell – Watertown (199 assists, 8.3 A/S)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Watertown has a history of producing high-level players, and Kynsee Russell is carrying that tradition. She brings a fiery presence to the court, running an offense with energy and confidence. Her ability to connect with attackers in transition separates her—Russell thrives when plays break down, turning scramble situations into scoring chances.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>College Value:</strong> Russell's skill at <strong>running transition offense</strong> and keeping her hitters in rhythm even when out-of-system makes her a strong collegiate prospect. She brings grit, hustle, and adaptability—qualities that will make her valuable in any program that emphasizes speed and creativity at the setter position.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Braxton Nedved","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2027","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'6u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32561","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Wagner","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68c21f076c416"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">🏐 4. Braxton Nedved – Wagner (188 assists, 8.2 A/S)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Braxton Nedved is a setter who combines craft and consistency. She doesn't just set balls—she sets her hitters up for success. With excellent ball control and deceptive hands, Nedved knows how to disguise her intentions and spread the offense effectively. She is patient when needed but can dial up the tempo to keep blockers late.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>College Value:</strong> What makes Nedved stand out to coaches is her deceptive playmaking ability. She's not afraid to go against the grain and make the bold set, whether it's a quick back to the middle or a perfectly timed dump. Her versatility and ability to manage an offense efficiently will translate well to the next level.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Gracen Werdel","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"5'7u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"32561","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Miller","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68c21f076c589"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">🏐 5. Gracen Werdel – Miller (149 assists, 8.8 A/S)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Gracen Werdel is proving herself as one of South Dakota's most consistent floor generals. Her footwork and ability to cover ground quickly put her in position to deliver high-quality balls in every rally. Werdel thrives at keeping her offense balanced, making sure every hitter feels engaged and dangerous. She's also known for her defensive hustle, giving her team second-chance opportunities.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>College Value:</strong> Werdel's all-around skill set makes her an attractive recruit. Her ability to both defend and set at a high level shows versatility that programs value in a setter. With her decision-making and hustle-first mentality, she's the type of player who elevates everyone around her, a must-have for competitive programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Highlights: http://www.hudl.com/v/2SdgXW</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>~Theresa @prepdigdakotas</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong><em>Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at&nbsp;<a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a>&nbsp;With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</em></strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Follow on Instagram@prepdigdakotas</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->