Q&A With Future Lion Nola Wallace

Nola Wallace – a 2027 middle blocker out of Phoenix – has committed to Loyola Marymount University to pursue her athletic and academic career. Being 6-5 at only 16, Wallace is given a unique attacking and defensive advantage, and she makes the absolute most of her frame and 121 in standing reach.  She is a force at the net – quick lateral movements and long reach allowing her to close blocks that not many can. She is a standout contributor for her Desert Vista High School team, contributing 172 kills and 115 blocks over two seasons. Averaging 1 block per set, she was named Top 10 AZ Region 6A Blockers, as well as a USA All-Star. Wallace’s commitment could be a game-changer for the program down the stretch, I asked her why she found home in Loyola Marymount. 

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Q: Did you always have your eye on LMU or did they win you over during the recruiting process?

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A: Being from Arizona, it has always been a dream of mine to go to school in California. I love the ocean, the culture, and the climate - like most AZ kids do. LMU was one of the first schools to send me mail years ago at the beginning of my volleyball career, and that has always stuck with me. The list of pros kept growing the more I learned about the university and the volleyball program. I was looking for a school that prioritized both athletics and academics, and once I visited LMU’s campus, I fell in love. 

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Q: What specific aspects of the program made it feel like home and made you compelled to be a part of it?

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A: Last year, I had the opportunity to meet and work with Coach Kolby at a college experience camp in Arizona and I really loved his coaching style. After asking around, I heard nothing but amazing things about the coaching staff and LMU. I was sitting down to choose between my top schools, and having never been to LMU’s campus, my dad and I just decided to drive to Los Angeles. We spent the day exploring the gorgeous campus and location. After experiencing what LMU had to offer, I realized I could see myself there, and I knew it was the perfect fit.

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Q: What is your biggest goal or aspiration for your collegiate career, and what impact do you hope to leave on the program?

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A: I aspire to be a lifelong learner in the classroom and on the court. While at LMU, I would like to pursue a degree in engineering and do the best I can academically. I’d also love to help LMU continue its rising success as a volleyball program. I hope to have an immediate impact in helping the Lions pursue more conference championships and more NCAA bracket wins.

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