Abby Benton

Nebraska and Texas haven't been back since 2023

Nebraska and Texas haven't been back since 2023

The Fall of Washington State Volleyball: Impact of Conference Realignment and NIL

In 2023, Washington State volleyball was ranked fourth nationally with wins over top teams and two AVCA All-Americans. By 2024, the program missed the NCAA tournament after graduating key seniors and joining a mid-major conference due to Pac-12 realignment. This reduced competition, exposure, and NIL opportunities, impacting recruiting and the program's competitive standing.

Top U.S. Women’s Volleyball Phenoms Aged 18 to 21

This episode features top American women’s volleyball phenoms aged 18 to 21. It highlights Henley Anderson, the top recruit and Texas freshman; Jayla August, a middle blocker known for her slide attack transferring to Wisconsin; Olivia Babcock, a two-time national player of the year at Pitt; and Mimi Collier, a former ABCA outside hitter of the year now playing professionally. The episode previews the next age group segment.

Orlando's Rise as a Volleyball Hub: Youth Tournaments to Pro Championships

Orlando is becoming a central city for volleyball in the U.S., hosting the AAU Junior National Volleyball Championships, the largest youth tournament globally. The Orlando Valkyries won the 2025 Major League Volleyball championship and gained international attention. Orlando will host pool play for the 2027 FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship. A growing Brazilian population boosts local fan engagement, transforming volleyball into a spectator sport.

Top U.S. Women’s Volleyball Phenoms Ages 14-17: Rising Stars Spotlight

Featuring the best young volleyball players in the U.S. aged 14 to 17, this episode profiles phenoms like Mary Christine Crutcher, a 14-year-old explosive outside hitter; Kari Naughts, a 15-year-old with elite athleticism invited to national training; Timania Niuu, a crafty 16-year-old setter recognized internationally; and Ireland Reel, a 17-year-old outside hitter with versatile scoring ability. This episode sets the stage for the next age group where talent intensifies.

Why the Northeast Produces Few Top U.S. Women's Volleyball Players

Volleyball began in the Northeast U.S., but top American women's players mostly come from California, Texas, and the Midwest, where strong club systems and culture thrive. The Northeast has less infrastructure and more competition from other sports, leading to fewer elite players. Yet, new talent from New York suggests a possible comeback. This episode explores if the sport's birthplace can regain prominence as a talent hub.

Why Liberos Rarely Win National Player of the Year in Volleyball

Volleyball awards favor players who score points, like outside hitters and middles, since matches are won by scoring. Liberos, vital defensively, have limited scoring chances, mainly serving, making it hard to win top honors. Even setters rarely win. Elite liberos have changed matches but not won, showing the high bar. This mirrors other sports where defensive players seldom get top awards, highlighting a scoring bias.

Why Volleyball Players Like Shayla Rottenberg Can Dunk Basketballs

Shayla Rottenberg, a 6'4'' middle blocker and top recruit in Nebraska's class of 2028, went viral for casually dunking a basketball. Elite volleyball players often have vertical jumps over 10.5 feet, putting them in dunking range. Middle blockers perform slide attacks off one foot, similar to basketball takeoffs, making dunking achievable with some basketball experience. This highlights volleyball players' growing athleticism and crossover potential.

Whitney Lauenstein's Unconventional College Volleyball Journey

Whitney Lauenstein's college volleyball career defies the norm. Starting at Nebraska as a key player, she took a year off after her father's passing and the birth of her daughter. After leaving Nebraska, she transferred to Texas, redshirted, then returned to play impressively. Now granted a sixth year, she is transferring to Penn State, balancing volleyball, motherhood, and personal growth. Her story shows resilience and life beyond athletics.

Top 3 Outside Hitters to Watch in College Volleyball for 2026

This episode analyzes the top three outside hitters expected to lead college volleyball in 2026. Sully Davis of SMU showed strong freshman stats and may become her team's offensive centerpiece. Tori Stafford from Texas leads in scoring but shares duties with other key players. Brooklyn DeLay of Kentucky is set to be the primary offensive option after a key teammate's graduation. Detailed stats and context highlight their expected impact this season.

The Challenges and Impact of New Volleyball Fans in 2026

This episode discusses barriers new volleyball fans face in 2026, highlighting how fandom feels earned through knowledge and experience. It examines the hierarchy labeling new fans as toxic, while long-time fans act as protectors. Despite this, new fans drive engagement, attendance, and media deals, vital to volleyball's growth. The episode questions if the sport can keep measuring fan worth by tenure to expand its audience.

Maybe the most controversial call in college volleyball last season

Maybe the most controversial call in college volleyball last season

Why Volleyball Is the Ultimate Collaborative Team Sport

Abby Benton breaks down volleyball's design that enforces collaboration unlike any other sport. No player can complete a play alone due to the three-contact rule requiring passing, setting, and attacking by different players. Unlike other sports, volleyball demands precise timing, footwork, and defense coordination for success, making it a pure team effort where individual success depends on collective execution.

The Rise of Opposite Hitters in American Volleyball

Opposite hitters have been central globally, but U.S. teams favored outside hitters as stars. Recently, more programs develop opposites in six-rotation roles, with players like Kennedy Martin and Logan Lenicki. New pro leagues and college seasons show opposites controlling matches by facing single blocks, avoiding serve-receive, and anchoring offense. This episode examines why opposites are now decisive in top-level American volleyball and questions the focus on outside hitters.

The Impact of College Football on Volleyball's Popularity

This episode explores how college volleyball's fall season overlaps with football and the NFL, limiting TV exposure but benefiting from large football crowds on campus. It highlights Nebraska's 1990s strategy of inviting football fans to volleyball matches, boosting attendance. The episode debates if football limits volleyball's growth or supports its foundation.

Mimi Collier's Historic Rookie Impact in Major League Volleyball

Mimi Collier, a standout from Wisconsin and four-time AVCA All-American, is delivering an exceptional rookie season in Major League Volleyball. Averaging 4.67 points and 2.79 digs per set, she ranks among the league's top scorers and defenders. Choosing to build her career domestically with the Dallas Pulse, Collier showcases efficiency and two-way impact, challenging traditional paths and highlighting new opportunities in U.S. pro volleyball.

How JJ Van Neel Transformed Arizona State Volleyball with an Investment Banking Mindset

JJ Van Neel's path from investment banking to college volleyball coaching shows how analytical thinking and system focus drive success. Without a traditional playing background, he led Arizona State to an 86-14 record, two Big 12 titles, and multiple NCAA wins in three seasons. His approach challenges the idea that elite playing credentials are needed for coaching excellence, emphasizing strategy and efficiency.

Kari Knott: A 14-Year-Old Shaping the Future of USA Volleyball

Kari Knott, a high school freshman, was invited to train with the U.S. women's national volleyball team, a rare chance at her age. After winning MVP at the U19 Pan Am Games at 14, she gained international attention and now trains with college-aged athletes. This contrasts with the U.S. focus on college volleyball before senior team involvement, unlike countries where younger players join senior teams earlier. Kari's case raises questions about USA Volleyball's development approach.

Jess Merzik's Remarkable Comeback in the 2024 NCAA Volleyball Semifinal

In the 2024 NCAA Volleyball Semifinal, Penn State faced elimination against Nebraska, with Jess Merzik enduring a difficult stretch marked by multiple mistakes. Despite this, Merzik stayed aggressive and focused, turning momentum by attacking confidently and delivering key kills. Supported by her teammates, she helped Penn State win the final sets and the national championship. Her rebound from adversity highlights what sets great players apart.

Dallas Emerges as the New Epicenter of Youth Volleyball in America

During President's Day weekend at Triple Crown, Dallas clubs TAV, Madfrog, and Skyline won multiple age divisions, showcasing Texas's rise as the top state for youth volleyball. This shift from California is driven by Texas's population, competitive high school systems, strong college programs, and growing NIL funding, which keeps talent local and boosts the club scene.

Why Do Some Volleyball Setters Dive When Setting?

This episode explains why volleyball setters dive when setting, highlighting Gabby Blossom's play at Penn State, San Diego, and Love Nebraska. Diving preserves offensive speed and precision by enabling hand sets off-balance and helps control momentum to maintain defensive positioning. The technique is effective in fast systems but debated due to potential physical wear compared to bump sets.

Potential NCAA Volleyball Rule Changes to Enhance Safety, Pace, and Play

This episode covers three NCAA volleyball rule proposals that could change the game. A center line fault would be automatic when a foot fully crosses the line, improving safety and consistency. Teams would switch benches only after the second set, reducing downtime. Players might pursue balls around the net pole under certain conditions, allowing more athletic plays and longer rallies. These changes aim to make volleyball safer, faster, and more dynamic.

Big Ten Volleyball Tournament: Potential Chaos and Competitive Upside

The Big Ten is exploring a volleyball tournament starting in 2027 or 2026, offering top teams more high-pressure matches. The SEC's tournament built momentum for elites but hurt bubble teams' NCAA chances. The Big 12's no-tournament approach saw more NCAA bids. The Big Ten faces a trade-off between rewarding elites and risking bubble teams' spots, potentially influencing other conferences.

Historic Major League Volleyball Trade: Morgan Hentz Moves to Grand Rapids Rise

Two-time MLV Libero of the Year Morgan Hentz was traded from Omaha Supernovas to Grand Rapids Rise. Omaha received starting libero Alana Ogilvie and a 2026 first-round draft pick. The trade impacts both teams: Omaha gains a rising star and future assets, while Grand Rapids bets on proven experience to shift team culture amid current struggles.

Carson Chitty: Redefining the Libero Role with Elite Setting Skills

Carson Chitty is a dual-threat libero for Bensonette volleyball, combining steady defense with exceptional setting ability. Her experience as a setter allows her to confidently take the second contact and keep offensive plays aggressive. This skill set attracts interest from SEC programs like Texas A&M, Auburn, Kentucky, and Alabama, marking her as a leading figure in the evolution of the libero position.

The Unspoken Rule of Checking Under the Net in Volleyball

This episode examines a trend in college volleyball where players cross under the net to check on opponents after accidental hits. Originally a courteous act, it can make players uncomfortable by highlighting embarrassing moments. The episode shares athlete views and stresses that checking is appropriate only for clear injuries, emphasizing respect without unnecessary interruptions.

Top Scorers in Major League Volleyball: Surprising Leader Emerges

This episode breaks down the top three scorers in Major League Volleyball this season. Leah Edmond and Brooke Nunneviller deliver consistent performances, while Raina Terry leads with 4.83 points per set, adjusting to a new position. It discusses their journeys and if this scoring order will hold as teams adjust and the All-Star match approaches.

Jordan Thompson: Mid-Major Volleyball Star to Olympic Champion

Jordan Thompson's volleyball journey defies expectations. At Cincinnati, she averaged over 5 kills per set and ranked seventh all-time in NCAA kills. She led Cincinnati to its deepest NCAA run. On the U.S. national team, she earned Olympic gold and silver medals and multiple titles, becoming one of the best American players.

Controversial Volleyball Net Touch Sparks Debate on Sportsmanship and Rules

During a Pitt vs. Louisville match, Marina Pizel's net contact led to a disputed point and no challenges left for Louisville. Fans debated if it was intentional cheating or accidental. The incident highlights gaps in volleyball rules and differing perceptions internationally, where such contact is common and unpenalized. This episode examines officiating, tactics, and sportsmanship in high-level volleyball.

Should American Volleyball Players Train with Molten or Mikasa Balls?

The episode examines the debate on whether training with Molten balls, unlike the Mikasa used internationally, hinders American volleyball players. It compares volleyball to other sports with varying equipment and argues that key skills surpass ball preference. It emphasizes college volleyball as the main U.S. pathway and questions if focusing on ball type distracts from more crucial development issues.

The Advantage of Tall Setters in Volleyball: Spotlight on Charli Niu

This episode highlights Charli Niu, a high school sophomore and one of the tallest setters in Texas, ranked number two in her class. Her height gives her a unique advantage, making her an elite blocker, a front-row attacking threat, and a skilled setter with over 2,000 assists. Charli's complete skill set forces opposing defenses to adapt, showcasing how tall setters can influence match outcomes through their versatility and composure on the court.

The Challenges of UCLA's Volleyball Transfer Portal Strategy

UCLA volleyball brought in top transfer talent like Maggie Lee and Mari Singletary to regain prominence. Despite skill, the team lacked chemistry and clear roles, causing an early tournament exit. No new transfers followed, showing that the portal can't create team connection or coaching alignment, which are crucial for success.

How Utah Revolutionized Volleyball with Two Left-Handed Attackers

In 2017, Utah faced a unique challenge with two top left-handed attackers, Danny Drews and Kenzie Kerber. Instead of limiting one, Utah innovated by playing one as an outside hitter, placing two lefties in the front row. This disrupted standard blocking schemes and led to a strong 2019 Sweet 16 run, pushing Stanford to five sets.

How Thai Setter Pornpung Gedpard Outsmarts Taller Opponents with Timing and Deception

This episode analyzes Pornpung Gedpard, known as Shampoo, a 5'8" Thai setter who challenges American setter norms. She releases the ball on the descent of her jump, disrupting blockers' timing and forcing guesses. Her style led Thailand to the 2023 Asian Volleyball Championships title and earned her MVP in Major League Volleyball. The episode suggests U.S. setters could benefit from adopting timing and deception techniques.

The Overlooked Volleyball Stat: Why Block Touches Matter

Abby Benton discusses the crucial yet underappreciated volleyball stat of block touches, especially by middle blockers. These touches don't score points but slow the ball, allowing the defense to organize and improve transitions. Though hard to track, recognizing block touches can deepen understanding for players, coaches, and fans. Abby urges viewers to notice block touches to appreciate their strategic value.

Ajani Tealer's Remarkable Transition from College Middle Blocker to Pro Opposite Hitter

Ajani Tealer excelled at Kentucky as a middle blocker, winning SEC awards and a national title. At 5'10", she was undersized for pro middle, so she switched to opposite hitter. After a challenging first pro season, coaching at Vanderbilt helped her improve. In her second pro season with Indy Ignite, she led in scoring and defense, showcasing enhanced skills and successfully reinventing her game.

Zion Palmer: Illinois Middle Blocker with Elite Athleticism and College Potential

Zion Palmer is a highly athletic middle blocker from Illinois playing for First Alliance. Committed to VCU for 2027, she shows impressive hang time and composure on offense, making her a reliable point of attack. Defensively, she covers ground, actively blocks, and extends rallies, demonstrating strong game tempo understanding. Her balanced growth highlights her college readiness and ranks her among the top middle blockers in Illinois for her class.

The Purpose Behind Volleyball Players Taping Their Fingers

Volleyball players tape their fingers to prevent injuries like jams and hyperextensions common during blocking, setting, and digging. Beyond protection, taping has become a cultural and mental practice, with teams like the Texas Longhorns adopting it as part of their identity. Players write motivational words on the tape, making it a personal reminder to stay focused and aggressive. This routine supports both physical safety and mental readiness in a sport built on repetition and rhythm.

NCAA Volleyball Teams Undergoing Major Lineup Changes Next Season

This episode covers major roster changes in NCAA volleyball programs. Texas A&M, the defending champs, returns only one starter but adds key transfers. SMU gains depth despite losing stars. Creighton aggressively recruits through the portal. Tennessee rebuilds after losing nearly its entire lineup, adding impactful transfers. The episode examines how these teams are reshaping their lineups and the potential effects.

How Rally Scoring Transformed Volleyball Into a Fast-Paced Sport

Volleyball's original side-out scoring made matches long and unpredictable, with points only scored by the serving team. In 1999, the FIVB introduced rally scoring, awarding points on every rally, and added the libero position. These changes standardized match length and boosted the sport's appeal, emphasizing consistency and pressure for players while making the game more engaging and marketable for fans.

League One Volleyball Kickoff Match Recap Featuring Madison Skinner and Lexi Rodriguez

This episode recaps the League One Volleyball kickoff match, focusing on the Madison Skinner versus Lexi Rodriguez matchup. Skinner delivered incredible blocks that energized the gym, while Logan Eggleston impressed with varied shots and tactical play. Kim Jrniak showcased a powerful, deliberate hitting style. The match was a competitive five-set thriller with back-and-forth action, setting an exciting tone for the season and hinting at a potential championship rematch.

The Unique Culture of Women's Volleyball Fans and Their Impact on the Sport

This episode delves into the distinctive nature of women's volleyball fandom, where fans' strong personal connections to players often blur the lines between performance critique and personal loyalty. It discusses how this culture fosters empathy and healthier conversations around mental health and pressure, while also facing challenges as sports analysis becomes more public and transactional. The episode questions how the culture can evolve without losing the humanity that defines it.

Key Figures Who Shaped Recent U.S. Women's Volleyball History

This episode examines key players who shaped recent U.S. women's volleyball beyond just skill. Logan Tom set the blueprint for outside hitters, Jordan Larson redefined leadership and longevity, Destiny Hooker expanded accessibility for Black athletes, Micah Hancock revolutionized serving tactics, and Morgan Hentz elevated the libero role's cultural impact. Together, they transformed the sport's style, expectations, and inclusivity.

Is Club Volleyball Becoming a Monopoly? Examining the Shift in Youth Sports

The episode discusses how club volleyball has shifted from a non-profit, development-focused activity to a business-driven industry. Large companies are consolidating clubs and regions, controlling recruiting, tournaments, and video platforms. Families now pay not just for training but for access and exposure, reflecting trends in other youth sports. The conversation questions whether the volleyball community accepts this evolving landscape.

Texas A&M Breaks the Curse to Win First NCAA Volleyball Championship

Texas A&M won its first NCAA volleyball championship, breaking a five-year streak where teams beating Pitt in the semifinals lost the final. Pitt reached the final four every year since 2021 but lost each semifinal. Texas A&M upset Nebraska in the Elite Eight, defeated Pitt in the semifinals, and beat Kentucky in the final, ending the curse and raising questions about Pitt's future.

Exploring the Complexities of the Volleyball Transfer Portal and NIL Impact

This episode explores why volleyball players enter the transfer portal, focusing on Una Vaigachi's move from Wisconsin to Arizona State. Coach Kelly Sheffield denies NIL pay disparity rumors and explains the communication breakdown with Vaigachi and her agency. The discussion highlights the complex factors behind transfer decisions, including financial aspects and player agencies.

Understanding the Biggest Mistake New Volleyball Fans Make

Many new volleyball fans focus on the ball, tallest players, or hardest hitters, but the real key is serve receive. Clean passing opens offensive options and smooths play, while poor passing limits offense and dulls hitters. Though not flashy or in stats, serve receive is vital to winning, with coaches and servers focusing on it. Recognizing its importance changes how you watch volleyball.

Every Volleyball Position Explained in 60 Seconds

This episode offers a concise introduction to every volleyball position on the court. It explains the setter's role in running the offense, the outside hitter's versatility and scoring responsibility, the right side hitter's dual offensive and blocking duties, the middle blocker's focus on blocking and quick attacks, the libero's defensive specialization, and the defensive specialist's role in ball control. The video emphasizes the teamwork, rotation, and strategic complexity of volleyball.

Emma Halter and Ramsey Gary: Texas's Elite Libero Duo in College Volleyball

This episode analyzes the exceptional performance of Emma Halter and Ramsey Gary, Texas's libero duo. Emma's leadership and second ball handling, along with Ramsey's sharp reads and range, made them a defensive powerhouse. Their scrappy play was key to Texas's success this season.

The Controversy Over Wisconsin's 'Ugly' Black Volleyball Jerseys

Wisconsin's black jerseys, introduced in September, became a major talking point during the NCAA tournament after key wins against Stanford and Texas. While some fans criticized the jerseys as ugly and untraditional for volleyball, others recognized them as a nostalgic nod to past volleyball uniform styles, which commonly featured long or short sleeves and black colors. This episode explores how these jerseys became a defining and divisive element of Wisconsin's tournament identity.

Inside SMU's Dynamic Setter-Opposite Duo: Avery Carlson & Malia Jones

This episode explores SMU's setter Avery Carlson and opposite hitter Malia Jones, one of college volleyball's most effective duos. Avery averaged over 11 assists and 2 digs per set, driving SMU's success. Malia, a Colorado State transfer and AVCA semifinalist, averaged nearly 5 points per set with a .376 hitting percentage, outperforming many middles. Their synergy made them a top duo to watch this season.

Emma Eisenman: The Most Underrated Freshman Outside Hitter in Volleyball

Emma Eisenman, a 5'11 freshman outside hitter from Pinellas Heat in Florida, stands out for her strategic and adaptable volleyball style. Originally a middle blocker, she brings a unique approach jump and floor technique to her outside hitting. Emma excels at adjusting to the ball, placing shots smartly rather than relying on power swings. Her ability to run quick tempo balls and find seams on the court highlights her high volleyball IQ, making her a formidable opponent early in her career.

Analyzing Recent NCAA Volleyball Transfer Portal Moves

In this episode, Abby Benton provides her insights on the latest NCAA volleyball transfer portal activity. She discusses her reactions to various players entering the portal, expressing surprise at some decisions while noting expected outcomes for others. Abby also hints at the possibility of multiple follow-up videos and invites viewers to suggest which players to cover next.

Dominant Middle Blockers: Jayla August & Alec Roth's Impact on Florida Volleyball

This episode highlights Florida's middle blockers, Jayla August and Alec Roth, whose dynamic play transformed the team's offense. Jayla's 3.5 points per set and Alec's versatile hitting made them a formidable duo, creating one of the most dynamic middle offenses in the country. Their impact over two seasons was significant, even as the duo has now split.

The Rise of Reagan Cooper: From College Three-Rotation to Pro Six-Rotation Star

Reagan Cooper's volleyball journey shows her shift from a front-row-only hitter in college to a versatile six-rotation outside hitter professionally. Drafted by Columbus Fury, she expanded her skills, won the PVF Rising Star Award, and later finished second in Athletes Unlimited, surpassing many seasoned pros and Olympians. This episode examines if her college role limited her or if she developed new abilities after college.