When you talk about movement in the 2027 class, few players have made a more noticeable climb on the Prep Dig Texas State Rankings than Natalie Kitts Natalie Kitts 6'4" | MB Tompkins | 2027 State TX . The 6’4” middle blocker from Tompkins High School has officially risen to No. 9 overall in the 2027 class, and the jump is more than justified. Over the past year, we have seen significant growth in her game. Her physical tools have always been impressive, but what separates her now is how efficiently and consistently she applies them. At 6’4”, many would assume lateral movement could be a challenge. Instead, Kitts is remarkably quick moving along the net. She covers ground from pin to pin with ease and does an outstanding job sealing blocks and taking away angles. Offensively, she is elite. Her ability to terminate against size and athleticism stands out every time she steps on the floor. What truly elevates her is how aggressively she drives her feet toward the setter to establish position on quick sets. She does not drift. She attacks the ball at its highest point and places constant pressure on opposing middles. That footwork and timing make her incredibly difficult to defend. Defensively, she is a true game changer. Her length and timing allow her to alter swings even when she does not record the block. She reads the setter well and closes quickly, turning potential scoring opportunities into hesitation plays for opponents. College programs have clearly taken notice. Kitts recently announced her commitment to Baylor University, a testament to both her development and long term upside. Her rise to No. 9 overall in Texas is a reflection of consistent improvement, high level production, and impact on both sides of the ball. Natalie Kitts Natalie Kitts 6'4" | MB Tompkins | 2027 State TX has positioned herself among the very best in the 2027 class, and her trajectory suggests she is far from finished climbing.

When you talk about owning the net, Natalie Kitts Natalie Kitts 6'4" | MB Tompkins | 2027 State TX is the example. Natalie Kitts Natalie Kitts 6'4" | MB Tompkins | 2027 State TX controlled space with disciplined hand positioning and strong lateral footwork, sealing seams and closing blocks with purpose. Her timing was advanced, reading the setter’s release and pressing over the tape rather than drifting. Offensively, Natalie ran tempo in front and behind the setter, forcing opposing middles to commit and freeing her pins.

Beyond the stat line, Natalie competed with maturity. She celebrated teammates’ kills louder than her own and reset quickly between rallies. For the little girls standing behind the court watching, Natalie modeled what a dominant middle can be — powerful, technical, and selfless. That’s influence beyond the box score. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

Miss Kitts is a high-ceiling middle blocker in the Texas Class of 2027 whose size immediately changes the dynamic at the net. At 6’4”, she brings rare length for her age, creating natural advantages as both a blocker and attacker. Recently she chose to play her collegiate volleyball at Baylor University.  They are getting one very physical and aggressive blocker with Natalie.  Kitts shows the ability to take up space quickly, using her reach to close seams and force opposing hitters to adjust their swings. Offensively, she continues to develop as a middle presence, showing flashes of strong timing and effective first-tempo attacks. Her movement patterns are improving, allowing her to stay involved in longer rallies and transition situations.  We love the fact that she is able to run every route that you would want in a middle at a very high level.  This young lady is flat out an elite athlete who can be a game changer if you feed her the ball. 

Kitts will appear for the HJV 16 Elite team that will compete in the 16 Open division. A middle with extraordinary size and length, she makes a big impact in the game on both sides of the ball. Kitts’ blocking is arguably the most impactful part of her game and what sets her apart from most middles in her age group. She uses her size extremely well to get stops, but is also great at reading the game and impressively mobile, a combination that further elevates her defensive game at the net. When she doesn’t get a touch on the ball, Kitts at least affects the opposing hitter’s decision-making, giving the defenders behind her an extra split-second to act. She can also make an impact offensively with her ability to make contact with the ball at a very high point and her court awareness.

Natalie really dominates the net when she’s on the court, showcasing not only her physical prowess but also her exceptional game sense. She is a very strong and fast middle blocker, able to anticipate the opponent’s moves and react with incredible agility. Her quick feet allow her to position herself perfectly, ensuring she either shuts down the opposing attacker or slows the ball down significantly. This strategic play not only disrupts the opponent’s rhythm but also creates a perfect opportunity for her teammates to make a successful counterattack. Her impressive high school performance, where she ended the season with 33 kills and 20 solo blocks, is a testament to her skill and dedication. As she transitions to play with her club team this season, Natalie is expected to be a pivotal player, leading her team with her hard work and determination while continuing to develop her tactical approach and leadership on the court. Her presence will undoubtedly elevate the overall team performance, making her a key asset as they aim for success in the upcoming matches.