Here’s a storyline we didn’t expect to address from the Missouri/Kansas Stock Up Showcase: Arkansas brought elite defensive talent to this event. Carroll’s quick, twitchy movements in the back row helped solidify the Delta Region’s foothold at our Kansas City event. This Fayetteville freshman-to-be may have been surrounded by older peers in an unfamiliar environment, but she brought the consistency needed to fit in with anyone. Carroll is adept at getting her feet to the ball, but she also isn’t afraid to sprawl out for anything drifting outside her midline. We saw a little of everything from the Ozark Elite libero at Sunday’s event, and Carroll’s prep career is just getting started.

Another Arkansas product who had a strong day was Carroll. The rising freshman more than held her own against older competition and caught my eye with her work in the back row. Her quickness stood out, as she reacted well and showed the ability to move to the ball and put herself in position to make plays. For a young player competing in that environment, she looked comfortable and didn’t shy away from the challenge. One area I’d like to see continue to develop is her communication and willingness to be more vocal in the back row. That should come with age, experience, and confidence, and she already has some of the physical tools to build around.