Five Breakout Stars Leading the Week’s Risers

Bryn Walcott – Sudden Impact | 2028 | Outside Hitter | PPV 228

Bryn Walcott is making serious noise after a dominant high school season that saw her rack up 535 kills, and the jump shows clearly on film. Her physical growth is evident, she’s getting her head above the net, elevating with confidence, and terminating swings with real pace. The timing, contact point, and overall assertiveness have taken a noticeable step forward, turning production into impact. This feels less like a short-term spike and more like a true breakout, positioning her as a name to track closely as the 2028 outside hitter class continues to take shape.

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Kayleigh Rogers | KIVA | 2028 | Outside Hitter | PPV 215

Rogers continues to stand out as a high-level pin prospect from one of the nation’s most competitive clubs. A UA NEXT invitee and both a JVA and USA All-American selection, she brings the toughness and competitiveness synonymous with KIVA outsides. She plays with a steady, composed presence and competes relentlessly on every point, showing a strong understanding of how to impact matches beyond just terminal swings. Rogers is comfortable in high-pressure moments, maintains a consistent level throughout long matches, and continues to refine her all-around game as the speed and physicality increase. Her competitive edge, combined with her experience against top-tier competition, positions her well as she progresses through the recruiting process.

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Halima Watkins | NYC Jrs | 2028 | OH | PPV 229

Watkins continues to impress in the 2028 class with a rare combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength. A left-handed outside hitter, she returned to NTDP this season and updated her measurables: Height 76", Block 120", Approach 123", all in the 9.7+ range. On the court, Watkins brings a heavy, terminal arm and the ability to finish points from above the net. While there’s room to refine backrow ball control for potential 6-rotation play at the next level, her physical tools and attacking ability make her a standout name in her class. Coaches are keeping a close eye on her as she continues to develop.

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Karsyn Evans | Dallas Skyline | 2027 | Libero | PPV 174

Evans has built a strong résumé in the 2027 class, earning Texas 5A All-State recognition while helping Aledo capture the Bronze medal during her prep season. In the back row, she reads the game well, maintains solid posture, and covers the court with poise and consistency, making her a reliable defensive presence. Beyond her passing, Evans has excellent hands and touch, allowing her to run clean out-of-system sets when needed and keep plays alive, giving her team extra options in transition. Her combination of defensive awareness and technical skill makes her a versatile and valuable contributor on both sides of the ball.

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Taimane Ainu’u | Ka Ulukoa | 2028 | Setter | Diamond Level Prospect

Ainu’u is a standout setter in the 2028 class, consistently earning top evaluations as the highest-rated setter and second-highest overall in her class. A Diamond-level prospect with an impressive résumé of high school awards, she continues to demonstrate strong and consistent play, most recently showing her skills at NTDP, where her tempo, decision-making, and court awareness stood out. With advanced technical ability and the poise to run her team effectively, Ainu’u is firmly on the radar as one of the top setters to watch in her class.