Makala Baker Makala Baker 5'10" | S/RS Rancho Cucamonga | 2030 CA , a Class of 2030 setter from Rancho Cucamonga High School and Forza1 North Volleyball Club, caught your eye immediately with her left-handed delivery and natural athleticism, which was a combination that is genuinely rare at any level. Left-handed setters create a different look for hitters and can be disorienting for opposing defenses and Makala already seems to understand how to use that advantage. Her ball-handling showed touch and intent, and she moved well in both directions, which tells you her footwork fundamentals are being developed the right way. What was most encouraging was her feel for the game at this young age. She was scanning the court and making reads rather than just running a predictable pattern. For a player this young, her athletic ceiling is the headline, but her processing speed is what will keep her ahead of the curve as the game speeds up around her. Forza1 North is a program that has consistently developed setters, and she looks like someone who is going to benefit from that environment. Makala is a very intriguing young prospects in her class and coaches should put her on their board now. Please help us congratulate her on earning Top Performer honors at this showcase event. 

Makala Baker Makala Baker 5'10" | S/RS Rancho Cucamonga | 2030 CA | Setter / Right Side Attacker

Baker is a rare dual-threat who seamlessly controls tempo as a setter and terminates plays as a right-side attacker. Her hands are clean, her decision-making is sharp, and she runs a fast, balanced offense that keeps blockers guessing. When she rotates to the right pin, her swing becomes a momentum-shifter with heavy pace and confidence. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

Expect this club season: expanded offensive versatility and a bigger role as a go-to option in clutch moments.

I am a HUGE fan of lefty setters, especially ones that can attack at the net. Thus, it was no surprise that lefty Baker caught my eye. Baker has “game” with a huge presence on the court. She runs the net confidently, showcasing smart movements and exceptional court awareness, while delivering well-placed sets that position her hitters for success. However, opponents need to wary of her. This lefty will take a big swing on second balls and opponents will pay for each time if they aren’t careful. Only an 8th grader, Baker is a fun and impactful player to watch. She is only going to get better and better and as she continues to grow and develop her game, she is going to make quite the name for herself.

Congratulations to Makala Baker Makala Baker 5'10" | S/RS Rancho Cucamonga | 2030 CA , Class of 2030, on being named MVP at the SoCal UpNext Showcase.

Makala Baker Makala Baker 5'10" | S/RS Rancho Cucamonga | 2030 CA , a Setter and Right Side from Day Creek Intermediate, was selected by coach Rachel Smith for her relentless energy and competitive drive at the SoCal UpNext Showcase. Rachel described her as a force on the court, bringing aggression and high-intensity play that elevated everyone around her. Whether running the offense, making a play, or motivating teammates, Makala showed that she could impact the game in more ways than one. Her jump setting stood out as she worked with tempo, sped up the offense, and delivered accurate balls to her hitters.

Makala approached the showcase eager to compete against strong talent while gaining insight from experienced coaches. Her personal goal for the season is to improve her ability to read opposing defenses and put her hitters in the best position to score, and she used this event as a chance to sharpen that skill. Beyond her on-court execution, she wanted others to see her as a great teammate, coachable and supportive, always helping those around her succeed. Having played volleyball since she was six years old, Makala brought a blend of experience, leadership, and passion that made her one of the most memorable players in the gym. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Makala disguises her sets well and looks comfortable running the offense. While she showed she can contribute in multiple positions, her setting ability clearly stood out as her natural role. At 5’10” she has the size and skill to run a 5-1 and be a real presence at the net as a blocker. — Kantessa Bryant-Miller

Congratulations to Makala Baker Makala Baker 5'10" | S/RS Rancho Cucamonga | 2030 CA , Class of 2030, for being named a Top Performer at the SoCal UpNext Showcase!

Click here to view her highlights