Future B1G Impact Recruits: Middles & Setters

As the top prospects continue to be picked from the pool, it's only natural that the Big Ten is reloading itself with a new generation of stars. Top programs from the West Coast to Happy Valley have been pledged to by the top talent in the country, eager to etch their names into their legacy. This new era ushers in a wave of young athletes whose games are far beyond their years, and will certainly be in the competition for starting spots the moment they step on campus. Here are my top 2027 middles and setters in the Big Ten to keep an eye on for future seasons.

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Kendall Omoruyi (Nebraska): A 6-4 middle blocker, Omoruyi is regarded as the top player in the entire class – ranked No. 1 by PrepDig. In her sophomore season at Casteel High School, she recorded 281 kills on an efficient .342 clip, recording 2.7 kills per set. On the defensive end, she posted 82 blocks, averaging 0.8 a set. With an approach touch of 128in, Kendall uses every bit of her 6 '4 frame to her advantage. She’s quick in transition to make herself available, able to get on the ball at its peak, and thus – bounce balls well within the 10 foot line. Her blocking is just as impressive – quick with lateral movements, her head above the net as her long arms suffocate opponents. Omoruyi's resume precedes her; a regular at NTDP, Under Armor MVP, as well as being named to the U19 Women’s National Team for the second year in a row – one of the youngest on the team. In the wake of the massive loss of Andi Jackson for the Huskers, Kendall is the perfect candidate to carry on her freakishly athletic and point scoring abilities.

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Taylor Harrington (Penn State): A 6-3 middle blocker and the top ranked player out of Virginia, Harington is ranked top 5 in her position and regarded as a highly-coveted prospect. A member of Paramount Volleyball Club, Taylor is a go-to attacker on her 16s squad – maximizing her touches and establishing herself as a constant threat out of the middle. She is bouncy and quick at the net – able to react to sudden tips and fully close the block laterally. An imposing presence at the net and dynamic athlete, Harrington is a regular NTDP attendee – named to compete with the U19 National Team at the NORCECA Pan American Cup this summer. With ‘25 Gabrielle Nichols, ‘26 Kendall Northern, and now Harrington, the Nittany Lions are more than comfortable in the middle position for future seasons. However, Taylor has one of the highest athletic ceilings in the class, and will likely compete for a starting role the moment she steps on campus. 

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Ellory Deboer (Michigan State): A 5-11 setter out of Wilmar, Minnesota – Deboer is an incredibly promising addition to Kristen Kelsay’s Spartan class of 2027. A six-time NTDP and two-time Under Armor Next Invitee,  Deboer has established herself as a touted and capable recruit. With an up-tempo offense characterized by precision setting, and an ability to back-set from anywhere on the court; Deboer has climbed to 4th in her high school's history, recognized as an All-Area First Team selection in her sophomore season. Her strong court awareness allows her to make the most of her attackers and get them as many one-on-ones as possible, maximizing their ability to score. She is a natural-born leader on the court with an all-around game that will only continue to be developed, and a game-changing recruit for the Michigan State program. Expect Ellery to earn a starting role early on in her career – elevating the rest of the team in the process. 

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Hunter Ross (UCLA): A 6-2 middle blocker and the 4th ranked player in Virginia, Ross joins Westley Matavao in Alfie Rift's – very successful – first recruiting class. As a freshman for Flint Hill High School, she racked up 131 kills on a highly-efficient .349 clip, in addition to 43 blocks and 23 aces. Her efforts contributed to winning a Division 1 State Championship in 2023, coming up just short the next season. Ross’s innate athleticism and high arm swing landed her critical acclaim; named to the All-Freshman and First Team All-State teams. Hunter has a well-developed game on both offense and defense; leading her conference in blocking and is a member of the 10 foot touch club. Hunter’s athleticism has earned her national recognition, a 2025 Under Armor Next Attendee and NTDP trainee. She has everything it takes to compete with the best of the Big Ten, and will be a massive addition in the front court for UCLA. 

Aaliyah Cancellari (Ohio State): A 6-2 middle blocker out of St. Petersburg, Florida, Aaliyah – despite the nature of her position –  has established herself as a six-rotation weapon. Known for her athleticism, powerful presence, and positive attitude; Cancellari is an impact player on the court. With a bouncy 10 '4 touch; she is a constant offensive threat and an impressive blocker. In her sophomore season at Northside Christian, she tallied 163 kills on a 43% kill percent, adding 65 blocks and 16 aces. She is a dominating presence at the net and an explosive attacker that betters the ball and puts her team ahead in the point. For an Ohio State program that has recently lost a lot of firepower from their graduating class, the Buckeyes are reloading with fresh arms to take over.