Memphis Shuffle: Key Players Hit the Portal
The offseason just got wild for the Memphis Tigers volleyball team. Three of their rising stars—Mandy Lawson, Riley McCloskey, and Maddy Bach—have entered the NCAA transfer portal. If you're a Tigers fan, this is the kind of news that makes you hold your breath.
Tigers Take a Hit
Let's break it down. Mandy Lawson, a freshman libero, made her mark this season with 117 digs across 29 matches. Not bad for a newcomer. Then there's Maddy Bach, the freshman setter who was straight up clutch. She racked up 681 assists and was twice named the American Conference Setter of the Week. That's no small feat.
And don't forget Riley McCloskey. The freshman outside hitter who brought the heat with 70 kills over 18 matches. All three were pegged to be the backbone of the Tigers' future. But now? They're looking for new homes.
The Silver Lining
Just when the Tigers seemed to be on shaky ground, in steps Amanda Hardt. The junior outside hitter confirmed she's sticking around. She only played ten games this past season due to injury, but boy, did she make them count. Hardt led Memphis to a 7-3 start, snagging two American Conference Offensive Player of the Week awards and two tournament MVPs. Straight up dominant.
What's Next?
The transfer portal can be a game-changer. Losing Lawson, McCloskey, and Bach is a blow, but retaining Hardt is a win. Let's be real—she's the kind of player you build a team around. With her back in play, Memphis isn't down and out just yet.
And just like that, the Tigers' narrative flips again. It's the offseason, but you can feel the tension building for next year. That'll do it.
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Source: dailyhelmsman.com
