Penn State's volleyball squad is diving into 2025 with a fresh intensity. After snagging last year's NCAA championship, they're not just defending a title. They're redefining what dominance looks like.
Izzy Starck's Moment
Izzy Starck is ready to run the show. The NCAA's National, Big Ten, and East Coast Region Freshman of the Year? Yeah, she's the real deal. As a sophomore, Starck's poised to elevate her game after leading the conference with a jaw-dropping 1,483 assists last season. She's not just on the Big Ten preseason All-Conference team; she's a standout on the AVCA Player of the Year watch list. That's big time.
And just like that, Penn State's offense is in good hands.
Kennedy Martin: The New Threat
Enter Kennedy Martin, a right-side hitter with a flair for the dramatic. Her transition from Florida to the Big Ten is a game-changer. With 429 kills and 581 points last season, Martin was second in the SEC for points per set. Now, she’s ready to make waves in the Big Ten, joining Starck on the AVCA watch list.
Penn State fans, you could feel it coming.
Gillian Grimes: Defensive Anchor
Every team needs a backbone, and Gillian Grimes is it. With 529 digs last season, she’s the defensive rock for the Nittany Lions. A senior with laser focus, Grimes is set to anchor the backcourt as Penn State eyes another deep postseason run. Her presence on the Big Ten preseason All-Conference team is no surprise.
Fresh Faces and Familiar Forces
Gabrielle Nichols might be new, but she’s no rookie. A top recruit and USA Volleyball U19 National Team member, Nichols' .409 hitting percentage in high school speaks volumes. Expect her to make an immediate impact as a middle blocker.
Meanwhile, Maggie Mendelson is back for more. Fresh off a national title run, her 194 blocks and .305 hitting average last season are just the beginning. Her dual-sport prowess in volleyball and basketball is a testament to her athleticism.
For Penn State? This is where it changes. They're not just defending a title. They're building a legacy. That’ll do it.
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Source: psucollegian.com
