Few players in Iowa’s 2029 Class have lifted her game up as much as Austen. A good all-around athlete that stands out on the basketball court, the Iowa City West sophomore boasts a pretty high ceiling in volleyball, too. It certainly has a chance to be her best sport and future in college. Fortunately, she has time to figure that out. I noticed improvement last season when Austen helped the Trojans reach the state tournament for the first time since 2016 as a freshman. Another scouting opportunity at the Prep Dig Gauntlet in June saw her continue her ascent. But, boy, there sure was a leap forward when watching her play last week. Austen’s attack is explosive. She rises up with a big vertical and hammers the ball. An improving feel for the game allows her to beat the defense no matter what it presents as evidenced by improved efficiency. The block also is getting better as is serve-receive and performance in the back row.