GHSA State Tournament Predictions: Dark Horses in the Hunt

Alpharetta may be the clear front-runner, but the bracket is never short on drama. Harrison and Grayson, along with programs like North Forsyth and Archer, are poised to make noise as dark horses. Each has the talent to flip the script on higher seeds and deliver the kind of upsets that define the state tournament.   Here are six underclassmen who could make the difference:    Myers may be young, but she's already showing poise as a freshman setter. She has the touch to run a fast offense and the courage to feed her hitters in big moments. Her development in the postseason could be the x-factor that helps North Cobb pull off an upset. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     McCoy is a steady two-way contributor who shines in serve receive and defense while also giving Walton options on the pin. Her ability to pass nails and keep plays alive frees Walton's offense to stay balanced. In tight postseason matches, she's the type of glue player that makes the difference. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Havette anchors the middle for Walton with her blocking and quick reactions. She has the ability to close seams against elite outsides and chip in offensively on quick sets. With Walton aiming for another deep playoff run, Havette's presence at the net will be key to slowing Alpharetta's hitters. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Smith adds offensive depth on the outside and has shown she can terminate against quality competition. Her ability to score in transition makes Harrison less predictable, and as a junior, she brings both experience and steady improvement to a young lineup that's peaking at the right time. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Palmateer gives Harrison flexibility few teams can match. She can run a crisp offense in a 5-1, then rotate into the front row and score from the right side. Her leadership and versatility steady the lineup, and she'll be the one keeping Harrison composed in tense playoff sets. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Chambers brings size and athleticism to the Hoyas' front line. She's not just a shot-blocker — she closes fast, reads setters well, and is developing a quick arm on the slide. If Harrison is going to hang with Alpharetta or Walton, Chambers' presence at the net will be a deciding factor. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    Harrison's youthful core gives the Hoyas the firepower to crash the semifinal picture, with Hardy and Chambers forming a formidable one-two punch. Walton's balance through Havette and McCoy keeps them firmly in the dark-horse mix, while Oye's blocking ability makes North Cobb a nightmare matchup for anyone. Alpharetta is still the team to beat, but these programs are primed to push the favorites to the brink — and maybe even knock one out.   Note to GA Athletes: If I didn't get the chance to write about you this week — I see you and I appreciate your game! I covered as many players as I could at AAU Nationals, but with limited time and so many talented athletes, I couldn't feature everyone. If you'd like to be considered for future coverage, please send me your high school season schedule and share a little bit about yourself so I can come support you and share your story. Let's keep building Georgia volleyball together! Fill out the "Cover My Game" Link in my bio @benchtobeast on IG   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following<a href="https://www.instagram.com/benchtobeast/"> BenchtoBeast</a> for exclusive Georgia content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</h3>   We're on a mission to spotlight talent, uplift families, and bring the volleyball community closer than ever! Huge shoutout to our amazing subscribers — you're the heartbeat of this movement. Thank you for your help growing the game, and making every moment unforgettable. The best is yet to come — let's get it!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Building bridges between hustle and opportunity — that's the power of this community! ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast

Alpharetta may be the clear front-runner, but the bracket is never short on drama. Harrison and Grayson, along with programs like North Forsyth and Archer, are poised to make noise as dark horses. Each has the talent to flip the script on higher seeds and deliver the kind of upsets that define the state tournament.