I wrote last month after seeing Austen for the first time since early June during club season that she really looked to have taken her game up a notch. Those advancements were confirmed when viewing her compete again in the MVC Championship bracket on Tuesday. The sophomore is doing everything in the game better and lifting her stock as a volleyball prospect. An excellent athlete that also excels on the basketball court, Austen keeps adding power to her performance. There’s also additional versatility having seen her attack the opposition from the middle of the net in club and as part of the West High strategy this year. She’s in line for activity on the recruiting trail come June 15.

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.