2028 Check-In: 15 Prospects Staying Active Ahead of Summer

Haleigh Bauer | MB | VCNebraska | PPV: 153

Bauer has continued to generate increasing interest from programs as she progresses through her development in the 2028 class. At 6'3" with a 119 approach touch and 116 block touch, she brings the type of physical profile that naturally draws attention at the middle blocker position. Her resume already includes Nebraska High School All-State honors, HAC All-Conference recognition, and a finalist finish for Class A Hitter of the Year, along with added versatility gained through USA Volleyball NTDP beach experience. As the summer camp season begins, Bauer remains firmly on the radar as she enters another important stretch of exposure opportunities. She has recently spent time at Ohio State and Northwestern camps, continuing to put herself in front of high-level programs as her recruitment momentum builds. 

​

Izzie Penrose | Libero/DS | Arizona Storm | PPV: 238

Penrose continues to establish herself as one of the more consistent defensive prospects in the 2028 class, offering steady serve receive and reliable back-row control against high-level national competition. Her game is built around composure, court reading, and the ability to keep her team in system under pressure. Her recent résumé includes selection to the 2026 USA Volleyball NTDP (Spring and Summer Invite), reflecting her standing among the top defensive prospects in her age group at the national level. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her steady impact in the libero role, and she has been putting in noticeable work on out-of-system play, appearing cleaner and more controlled in those extended defensive sequences. Penrose has maintained her level through a deep national landscape where attention is often split across multiple regions and prospects, continuing to prove herself as a dependable back-row piece with room to keep developing as exposure increases. She enters the summer NIT this weekend as part of another important evaluation window, with continued focus on her ability to translate consistency into impact against top-tier competition.

​

Ellyson Fogle | OH | Tennessee Performance Volleyball

Fogle continues to stand out as an outside hitter whose game brings real impact on the pin, with a play style that translates well beyond measurables. She plays with confidence, good timing, and a competitive edge that allows her to consistently find ways to score and stay involved in long rallies. Her reach and extension play up in live action and are evident in her highlight reel featured on the site, giving her a more physical presence than her listed size suggests. Her résumé includes a 2026 Sunshine Classic USA Division Championship and a 2025 All-Tournament Team selection, along with multiple appearances on the JVA Watchlist from 2023 through 2026, reflecting consistent national recognition over time. Fogle has also been active in the camp circuit, most recently attending Appalachian State, continuing to put herself in front of college programs and build valuable exposure. She remains a steady upward-trending pin player whose competitiveness and feel continue to stand out as her game develops. 

​

Tristyn Ervin | Setter | North Pacific Juniors | 170

Ervin continues to show strong long-term potential at the setter position, already demonstrating a high level of skill and control for her age. At 5'10" with a 114 block touch and 116 approach touch, she brings solid physical tools to pair with her developing floor leadership and distribution. She has earned recognition through the UA Next 2026 pathway, reinforcing her place among setters being tracked at a national level. Evaluations have consistently pointed to her upside, with clear room for continued growth as she gains experience and refines her decision-making and tempo. Ervin has also been active in the camp circuit, including a recent stop at Iowa State, continuing to put herself in front of college programs. She enters the summer NIT this weekend as another opportunity to build on her development and expand her exposure against strong competition.

​

Saylor Halvorsen | OH | SG Elite Roshambo | PPV: 225

Halvorsen continues to separate herself as a high-ceiling outside hitter with the physical tools and expanding shot-making ability to impact at a high level. At 6'3" with a 116 block touch and 124 approach touch, she presents a strong above-the-net profile that translates into consistent attacking leverage on the pin. She has drawn significant attention through the camp circuit, recently attending Kentucky and BYU, continuing to expand her exposure in front of high-level programs. Evaluations have consistently pointed to her ability to terminate efficiently when given opportunities, particularly showing comfort and aggression when attacking behind the 10-foot line. Her game reflects a level of versatility and movement that stands out, with clear influence from her beach background showing through her shot variety and spatial awareness. Earlier scouting notes have highlighted her as a well-rounded but quietly effective attacker whose competitiveness becomes more visible once she is in system. As her role and exposure have grown, so has the recognition around her potential pathway, with continued curiosity around how her recruitment will ultimately shape out geographically. Regardless, she remains one of the more complete and steadily rising pin prospects in her group.

​

Rachel Nemee | Libero/DS | Rage Volleyball Club | PPV: 174

Nemee continues to be a defensive presence worth tracking in the 2028 class, bringing an active and energetic style of play to the back row. She consistently covers ground well, using anticipation, effort, and athleticism to keep plays alive and create additional opportunities for her team. Her defensive range stands out, as she has shown the ability to make plays beyond her immediate area while maintaining control in transition. Nemee also adds value through her out-of-system setting, delivering consistent balls to the pins and helping keep her team's offense operating when plays break down. Adding to her résumé, Nemee earned Under Armour Next MVP honors, a recognition that speaks to the impact she can have on the court. She has also recently attended camp at the University of Washington, continuing to put herself in front of high-level programs as she builds exposure. As summer recruiting activity continues to increase, she remains a player whose defensive instincts, competitiveness, and all-around back-row skill set continue to keep her on the radar.

​

Emmie Hill | MB | Tribe Volleyball | PPV: 222

Hill continues to stand out as a middle blocker with elite physical tools and the athletic ability to match. At 6'3" with a 122 approach touch, her length and elevation immediately impact the net and give her a strong presence in both blocking and attacking phases. Her past experience at USA Volleyball NTDP reflects her exposure to top national-level competition and reinforces her ability to perform in high-performance environments. She has shown consistency in scoring and an ability to stay involved in transition, using her athleticism to create efficient attacking opportunities. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her standout height and reach as immediate differentiators, paired with legitimate mobility that allows her to stay active in transition. She creates value by making herself available offensively and showing the ability to convert when set, particularly in fast-paced situations. Hill remains a player who projects strongly based on her physical profile and continued development, with her presence at the net remaining a consistent advantage as she gains experience at higher levels.

​

Aleah Edmond | OH | Skyline Juniors | PPV: 195

Edmond continues to develop as a steady all-around outside hitter with a game that translates in multiple phases. At 6'0", she brings a balanced physical profile paired with the ability to stay involved in both serve receive and transition offense. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her reliability in passing, particularly her ability to handle heavier serves without breaking down under pressure. That composure in serve receive allows her to stay on the court in key rotations and contribute consistently to her team’s system. As she prepares for nationals, Edmond enters another important competitive window where her ability to maintain consistency will be key. She remains a dependable all-around piece whose value comes from stability, ball control, and the ability to handle increased pace when challenged.

​

Faith Bahun | Libero/DS | Arizona Storm

Bahun continues to stand out as a calm, steady back-row presence with a well-rounded skill set that translates across serve receive, defense, and transition. At 5'8", she plays with control and efficiency, using good angles in passing and a composed approach that helps stabilize her team’s first contact. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her ability to pass heavy serves with consistency, along with strong defensive movement around the block where she is able to control digs and extend rallies. Her out-of-system setting also adds value, with clean hands and the ability to deliver a deceptive second-contact attack when opportunities open up. She has also been active on the camp circuit, recently lining up a strong summer schedule that includes Nevada, Iowa State, Cal Baptist, CSUN, Fresno State, UC Davis, and Long Beach State. That level of exposure reflects growing attention as she continues to position herself in front of multiple programs. Bahun remains a reliable, all-around defensive specialist whose consistency and versatility make her a dependable back-row option.

​

Isabelle (Izzy) Miller | Libero/DS | Aspire Volleyball

Miller continues to stand out as a high-energy defensive specialist who consistently brings effort and urgency to the back row. She plays with a clear willingness to chase down balls and stay active in every rally, creating extra possessions through hustle and persistence. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her work rate and mentality on the court, particularly her instinct to pursue every playable ball and stay engaged throughout long defensive sequences. That level of effort translates into a steady defensive presence that can help extend rallies and keep her team competitive in transition. Miller entered the summer NIT this weekend as another opportunity to compete in a high-level environment and continue gaining exposure. She remains a developing back-row player whose energy and willingness to defend every point stand out as defining parts of her game.

​

Kaylee Ballard | OH | Adidas Dynasty

Ballard continues to develop as an outside hitter with a solid physical base and the ability to impact above the net. At 5'11" with a 115 block touch and 120 approach touch, she brings a balanced profile that allows her to contribute both offensively and at the net defensively. She has shown steady progression as a pin attacker, with tools that project well as she continues to refine her consistency and timing. Her ability to compete in extended rallies and stay engaged offensively gives her value as a developing all-around outside option. Ballard also has a highlight reel available on the site, offering a look at her game in action and the areas where she continues to grow. As she gains more exposure and experience, she remains a player to track within her group.

​

Hannah Griffin | OH | Austin Juniors | PPV: 185

Griffin is one we’ve been watching closely, and she’s clearly taken meaningful steps in her development as an outside hitter. At 6'1", she brings good size on the pin and continues to show the kind of physical tools that translate as her game matures. Her experience includes participation in the NTDP pathway, reflecting early recognition at a high-performance level. She has also recently attended camp at Auburn, adding another opportunity to compete in front of college programs and continue building her game through exposure settings. As she prepares for nationals, Griffin remains active in a key stretch of her schedule, with FAST Pre-Nationals next weekend adding another evaluation window. She’s developed well over time and continues to trend in a positive direction as her game comes together.

​

Sade Bello | OH | Houston Juniors | PPV: 243

Bello continues to stand out as an outside hitter with an explosive athletic profile and a consistent ability to impact matches above the net. At 5'9" with a 119 block touch and 122 approach touch, she plays bigger than her size suggests, using bounce, timing, and extension to create advantages on the pin. Her résumé includes Texas Insider All-Texas Freshman Team honors, District 16-6A Newcomer of the Year recognition, and experience within the USA Volleyball Indoor NTDP pathway, all of which reflect early and sustained recognition at a high level. Earlier evaluations have consistently pointed to her elite vertical ability as one of the most dynamic in the class, paired with a competitive edge that allows her to repeatedly show up in big moments. While she gives up size to some outside hitters, her ability to elevate, compete, and terminate continues to separate her and keeps college programs engaged. Bello has recently attended Baylor camp and enters the summer NIT this weekend, continuing a busy stretch of exposure opportunities as she remains firmly on the radar in the 2028 group.

​

Jade Smith | S | AZ Storm |

Smith continues to stand out as a setter with strong composure and a clear ability to control tempo and run an efficient offense. At 5'8" with a 115 block touch and 115 approach touch, she brings a balanced physical profile that pairs well with her decision-making and court control. Earlier evaluations have highlighted her ability to consistently deliver well-located sets, with the kind of precision that allows hitters to stay aggressive and in rhythm. She also brings a level of unpredictability to the offense, keeping defenses off balance and creating scoring opportunities across multiple options. Smith has recently been active in the camp circuit, including participation in the Aspire Volleyball College Experience Camp as well as the AZ Storm Elite College Showcase Camp, continuing to build exposure and experience in front of college programs. She remains a steady, composed setter whose control and consistency continue to define her game as she develops.

​

Katie Callahan | OH/DS | Nebraska Premier |

Callahan continues to bring value as a competitive outside hitter/defensive specialist whose impact shows up in both indoor and beach environments. At 5'7", she plays with a strong, confident swing that allows her to generate pace and finish opportunities effectively despite size limitations. Her track record includes being part of multiple championship-level teams, including a national title run indoors as well as success on the beach where she has also captured a national championship. That dual-sport background continues to stand out, with experience at high-level national training environments further adding to her development profile. Earlier evaluations have noted that while physical measurables present challenges at the next level, her competitiveness, ball control, and ability to contribute in big moments make her a valuable piece in winning environments. She continues to show she can elevate her play when it matters most. Callahan has remained active on the camp circuit, most recently attending camp at Grand Canyon University, while continuing to stay heavily involved in beach competition as well. She remains a steady, proven competitor who consistently finds ways to impact matches.

​

Dara Jackson | Libero/DS | NKYVC | 

Jackson continues to establish herself as a high-level defensive specialist with a proven track record of production in competitive environments. Her back-row impact is built on steady serve receive, strong anticipation, and the ability to extend rallies through consistent digging and defensive coverage. Her recent résumé includes a standout 2025 high school season featuring 516 digs and 47 aces, along with championship success at major club events such as the Nike Classic 16 Open in Columbus and JVA Summerfest. That combination of production and results highlights her ability to contribute at a winning level across multiple stages. Earlier evaluations and team success have consistently pointed to her reliability as a libero who can stabilize the back row and handle high-volume defensive responsibility. She has also remained active in the camp circuit, attending a wide range of programs this summer including Dayton, Wright State, Cincinnati, Ohio University, Miami University, and Xavier, reflecting strong exposure across the Midwest. Jackson remains a steady, experienced back-row presence whose consistency and competitive track record continue to define her game.

​

Ashley Sakonju | Libero/DS | SG Elite | PPV: 161

Sakonju brings a steady, no-drama presence to the back row, anchoring her team with consistent first contact and a calm, controlled approach under pressure. She doesn’t try to overextend plays, she simply makes the right ones repeatedly, which gives her team stability in long rallies. Her background includes UA Next High School Camp participation, along with a strong 2025 season where she earned Defensive Player of the Year honors while helping her team to a D1 state championship. That blend of individual recognition and team success reflects a player who contributes in meaningful, winning ways. Rather than relying on flash, Sakonju’s value comes from trustworthiness in serve receive and defensive coverage, especially in tighter moments when possessions matter most. She remains a dependable back-row option whose game is built on consistency and control.

​

Piper Pease | OP/RS | Alamo | PPV: 228

Pease continues to trend as a powerful right-side/opposite attacker with the physical tools to change momentum in a match. At 6'2" with a 120 approach touch and 118 block touch, she brings clear above-the-net impact and the kind of reach that allows her to terminate at a high rate when in system. Her game continues to be defined by her power, with a heavy arm swing and explosive burst off the floor that make her a consistent scoring threat. Coming off an impressive national-level showing last season, she has continued to build on that foundation with noticeable growth in her overall effectiveness and confidence on the pin. Pease has also drawn significant attention through the camp circuit, earning multiple invitations as her profile continues to rise. A highlight reel is available on the site, offering a look at her power-based attacking style and physical upside. She remains a high-impact pin attacker whose strength and explosiveness continue to separate her within her group.