Aliyah has gotten more publicity the last three days that she is gotten all year. Not because she didn’t deserve it, WE missed it. Rarely do you see a single player dominate a team game the way that McKellar did Saturday morning. What a way to kick of the championship day with a super star performance. It’s not only what she did, it’s when she did it.

McKellar took over the final set. She was 7 of 17 with no hitting errors, dished out 7 assists, had an ace and 7 digs. The best was the final kill that skirted the top of the net and fell in on the other side of the court before the MASSIVE Fountain Lake crowd exploded. That how you become the 2026 Diggies CLOSER.

State Championship Stats: 18 kills | 20 assists | 19 digs | 3 aces | 3 block assists

If there was one player who consistently influenced the championship match, it was Fountain Lake’s Aliyah McKellar. McKellar delivered one of the most complete performances of the championship matches, finishing with 18 kills, 20 assists, 19 digs, three service aces, and three block assists. Even more impressive was her offensive efficiency. McKellar recorded a .385 hitting percentage on 39 attempts, committing just three attacking errors. She consistently found ways to impact the match and stay involved.

McKellar is a powerful pin/setter. When she gets on top of the ball she really can put it down. Aliyah and fellow senior Baylee Hedges Baylee Hedges 5'8" | OH/DS/L Fountain Lake | 2027 AR have a great connection. I went back and watched some earlier film on them and Mckellar gives Hedges a good clean ball to attack with. She can set from just about anywhere on the court and is a weapon from pins.

Fountain Lake is going to be tough to beat in the finals. If McKellar and Hedges are hot, it could be a quick match.

What a comeback by Fountain Lake! Down two sets to Conway Christian in the 3A South Regional championship, the Lady Cobras battled back to pull off the reverse sweep, including a 28-26 thriller in the third, to claim the title. They were one point from going home!!

Aliyah McKellar played a big role in the comeback, finishing with 7 kills, 20 assists, 20 digs and 7 service points. McKellar’s versatility was on display throughout the match, contributing as both a setter and attacker while putting in plenty of work defensively. Her all-around performance helped Fountain Lake complete the reverse sweep and secure the regional championship.