Another key piece returning from Marion’s state championship team is middle/right-side hitter Jaida Sturdivant Jaida Sturdivant 5'11" | MB/RS Marion | 2027 AR . As a junior, she contributed 120 kills while hitting .324—second on the team in hitting percentage—and added 66 total blocks, also ranking second on the squad. With another year of experience, Sturdivant will be counted on to anchor the middle and provide a consistent front-row presence for the Patriots.

At camp, Jaida looked ready to embrace that expanded role. She played with confidence, moved well laterally, and consistently closed seams at the net. Alongside Kendall Brown Kendall Brown 5'8" | OH/MB Marion | 2027 State AR , she gives Marion one of the better front-row combinations in the state. Her continued development as an offensive option will be just as important as her blocking. If she can build on last season’s production, Sturdivant will play a major role in Marion’s pursuit of another trip to Hot Springs and another state championship.

2025 Stats: 85 Sets | 120 Kills | .432 | 66 Total Blocks | 0.8 Blocks/Set

Sturdivant gives Marion another athletic option in the front row. Her versatility allows her to contribute as both a blocker and an efficient attacker. I was able to watch Jaida play in person yesterday at the Conway team camp and she in impressive. She is only this low on this list because it is based off 2025 stats. She going to problem again this season for the 5A conference. Sturdivant played a solid role last season, in 2026 expect some main character energy from her. Along with Kendall Brown Kendall Brown 5'8" | OH/MB Marion | 2027 State AR , these two will be a dangerous combination.