The small things that players like Pennington do have added up to big wins all season. Pennington helps the Admirals control the net. Pennington sends over hard crosses and denies setter dumps from coming over the net. She gets a number of hands on balls at the net. Pennington said aggressive play at the net makes a huge difference and communication has been a focus there since the Showdown at the Sunsphere.

Pennington’s size and athleticism has been a huge key for Franklin’s amazing run this season. Pennington forms powerful double blocks with teammates. Pennington gets on top of balls and takes powerful rips. Pennington deposits ones all over the court and executes sound slides. Pennington tools blocks and pounds balls through tight spaces. Pennington taps balls to spots to keep opponents honest. Pennington does not rush her swings. She attacks deep corners and puts overpassed balls away from opponents.

Pennington takes awesome gap shots and does a great job affecting things at the net in different ways. That means forcing hitters to send balls high and wide. She uses her size to form walls at the net with solid double blocks. Pennington also makes sound passes to jumpstart the offensive rhythm.