10 Players We're Watching at the NIT Triple Crown: Class of 2029

The Triple Crown NIT has earned its reputation as the best tournament of the year, consistently bringing together the deepest fields, highest level of competition, and most meaningful matchups on the club calendar. When teams want to see where they truly stand, this is the event that provides real answers. With talent from every corner of the country in the building, it’s a must-watch weekend across all age groups.

While our coverage this weekend will span every class, this article zeroes in on the 2029 group, a class loaded with upside and still very much in the early stages of its development. These are the players we’re especially excited to watch as they take the floor at the toughest event of the season, looking to show how their games translate when the level is at its highest.

Harper Dallaire, MB – Michigan Elite - Red Level

 This will be a big test for Harper as she makes a significant jump in the level of competition. She has the tools to score consistently, thanks to a quick arm and strong connection with her setters. This weekend will be a great measuring stick for where she stacks up.

Aubrey Coleman Axtell, MB – Dallas Skyline - Red Level

 A true dual-sport athlete, Aubrey’s basketball background shows up immediately—especially on the slide, which comes very naturally for her. She’s coming off an impressive runner-up finish at the second Tour of Texas stop in Dallas. Now we’ll see how she and her squad measure up at one of the strongest non-USAV championship events of the year.

Ellie Chamorro, OH – Houston Juniors - Red Level

 A well-sized outside hitter with a clean arm swing and solid terminal ability. We’re particularly interested to see how she matches up against top-level competition outside of the incredibly stacked Texas volleyball scene.

Dani Solomon, OH – NC Academy - Elite Red Level

 Dani has shown noticeable growth this season, both in size and explosiveness. She had an excellent showing at her last tournament, helping her team to a third-place finish while standing out individually. Excited to see how she lines up against some of the best 2029 talent in the country.

Clara Wright, MB – Colorado Juniors-  Elite Orange Level

 Clara’s work ethic continues to show, as her development keeps trending upward. She brings good size and is playing within a program that has produced some all-time middle blockers. She’s eager to prove how far her game has come.

Emilie Mark, OH – Alliance - Elite Orange Level

 A former dual-sport athlete who is now fully committed to volleyball, and it’s starting to show in a big way. While she doesn’t yet have extensive six-rotation experience, her improvement has been steady. She can score with the best of them, especially in out-of-system situations.

Gia Stokes, MB – Boiler Juniors - Elite Red Level

 We haven’t had many opportunities to see Gia this season, which makes this weekend even more intriguing. She’s a strong, high-level athlete, and the NIT Triple Crown provides the perfect stage for her to make a statement.

Roxy Rigo, Setter – Mintonette - Red Level

 We love setters who bring their own offensive threat, and Roxy fits that mold. She’s a tall, long setter with solid fundamentals, good tempo to the pins, and strong decision-making. She should be a fun follow throughout the weekend.

Mary Clayton, OH – AVC Cleveland - Orange Level

 Mary showed strong athleticism last year as her game continued to develop. This will be our first look at her this season, and we’re very interested to see how her progression has continued.

Sylvie Solorzano, Setter – Arizona Rev - PPV TBD

 Sylvie is a name we’ve heard locally but haven’t had the chance to see live, which is why she doesn’t yet have a PPV score. This weekend will be the perfect opportunity to get eyes on her and evaluate her game firsthand