Raya Thompson Raya Thompson 6'1" | OH/RS Cherry Creek | 2028 CO is a powerful outside hitter with a cannon of an arm. She attacks with authority, swinging through blocks and generating points from all areas of the front row. Defensively, Thompson is a strong presence at the net, using her size, timing, and positioning to challenge opposing hitters and contribute as an effective blocker. Her combination of power and physicality makes her a top prospect in Colorado’s 2028 class.

Thompson is a powerful pin hitter in the class of 2028. She is a solid blocker who positions herself well against opposing hitters. One of her biggest strengths is knowing when to take a big swing and when to throw in a shot. Thompsons ability to see the court combined with her athleticism makes her one of the top 2028 prospects.

Thompson lands at No. 6 thanks to the physical tools that continue to jump out right away. She brings arm speed, length, and the kind of high contact point that creates problems for defenses. In addition, her ability to contribute from either pin adds value and makes her a difficult player to game plan for. As she continues to sharpen the details, the upside here remains very high.

Some hitters create offense through vision.

Others create offense through sheer force. Raya Thompson brings the kind of power that can erase a difficult situation. Her explosive arm swing generates impressive pace, even when the set isn’t ideal. As a result, defenders have very little time to react. Furthermore, her ability to attack from either pin makes her a valuable out-of-system target. Coaches can trust her to take swings in difficult situations because she has the physical tools to challenge any block. When the rally gets chaotic, Thompson has the ability to simplify things with one aggressive swing.

Thompson checks in at No. 5 thanks to her physical tools and scoring ability. Her arm speed and reach create high-contact swings that are difficult to defend, especially when she’s in rhythm. She also brings versatility with the ability to play either pin, which adds to her value. As she continues to refine consistency, her ceiling remains very high.

Thompson’s wind-up style swing creates real speed and power at contact. She has a heavy arm, uses her reach well, and attacks with confidence. When she gets a clean look, she’s tough to slow down. What makes her even more valuable is her ability to play either pin. That adaptability gives coaches options and keeps her on the floor in multiple rotations. She’s dynamic, physical, and fun to watch when she gets rolling.

Raya Thompson Raya Thompson 6'1" | OH/RS Cherry Creek | 2028 CO brings athletic explosiveness to the outside. Her elevation and arm speed allow her to challenge blocks above the tape. Thompson attacks aggressively in transition and maintains offensive confidence even when faced with heavy defensive adjustments. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

At Triple Crown, expect her to attack with range and provide consistent scoring against structured defenses.

Court Schedule At Triple Crown: 2/14 8:30AM-Court KCCC 40 vs. Arizona Storm 16 Lighting

After tracking Raya Thompson Raya Thompson 6'1" | OH/RS Cherry Creek | 2028 CO throughout the past year, it’s clear she’s one of the more polished pin hitters in Colorado’s 2028 class. At 6’0”, she brings a physical presence at the net and has developed into a true offensive threat from both pins. Her ability to terminate out-of-system, adjust to set tempo, and work high off the hands makes her a tough matchup.

Raya’s footwork patterns are efficient, and she maintains a consistent approach rhythm that allows her to generate a clean, powerful arm swing. She reads the block well and shows advanced shot selection—mixing in the hard cross, deep corners, and a high line swing. Defensively, she’s a competitor who keeps rallies alive with smart positioning and disciplined platform angles.

Coaches looking for a composed, high-IQ attacker who’s only going to get stronger— Raya Thompson Raya Thompson 6'1" | OH/RS Cherry Creek | 2028 CO should be on your radar. Uncommitted and rising.

~Theresa @prepdigdakotas

Thompson was the standout on day one of the Colorado Challenge. A strong outside who plays for Elevation 16 Peak, Thompson is a fun player to watch. She puts up a huge block and has a strong swing allowing her to power through the opposing blocks. She has an absolutely lethal top spin serve, earning her multiple aces. Her defense is also solid, and she has court presence unlike anyone else. She is energetic and uplifting, making her an entertaining watch.