2023 Player Rankings Update: Top Liberos

<p>Michigan has had its history of producing college talent at the libero position.</p> <p>For the Class of 2023, there will be plenty of players that get their chance to compete at the college level.</p> <p>Here’s a look at the defenders leading the way following our latest rankings update.</p> <p><em>*NOTE: <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="66340" first="Sarah" last="Vellucci"]</strong> was ranked as an outside hitter, but also is a standout libero at Legacy during club season.</em></p> <h4><strong>1. [player_tooltip player_id="66308" first="Kaitlyn" last="Hoffman"], Novi/Legacy</strong></h4> <p>Hoffman is another player that has shown that she can excel as a hitter, but is in her element as a defender. Hoffman is a very calm and composed player, but also has a lot of athleticism to be able to adapt to multiple positions. She’s got a great serve and a knack for serve receive, but can come through with a back row attack when needed.</p> <h4><strong>2. [player_tooltip player_id="110323" first="Lexi" last="Smith"], Anchor Bay/Legacy</strong></h4> <p>Smith plays on a very deep defensive squad at Legacy and is able to bring her own flare to the position. Smith is great with her footwork and keeping herself focused in on where she needs to be. She’s able to make tough passes look easy and also can cover a lot of space to keep her team alive in a tough point.</p> <h4><strong>3. [player_tooltip player_id="66342" first="Kendall" last="White"], St. Johns/Five:1</strong></h4> <p>White has had a lot of big-match experience in her playing career. She’s been a member of the St. Johns varsity since she was a freshman. She’s used that experience against powerful hitters to really sharpen her skillset and remain a poised player in the back row. White has a lot of confidence and great form on her serve receive and passing.</p> <h4><strong>4. [player_tooltip player_id="66305" first="Lauren" last="Heming"], Marian/Legacy</strong></h4> <p>Heming has been the libero for the back-to-back Division 1 state champs these past few seasons. She’s been an unsung hero for the squad, as the team wouldn’t be able to run their ultra-fast offense without her strong play. Heming is able to overcome any mistakes quickly and remains determined to get to every ball.</p> <h4><strong>5. [player_tooltip player_id="66295" first="Allison" last="Berent"], Notre Dame Prep/L2</strong></h4> <p>Berent is part of the great defense pedigree at Notre Dame Prep. This next year will be a big one for her as she gets to really shine as a primary defender for the D2 power. Berent also brings a great all-around game to the court, as she has shown the ability to hit when needed. Berent’s serve is one of the best in the state and her effort in the back row can never be questioned.</p> <p><strong>6. [player_tooltip player_id="66297" first="Kalliann" last="Cook"], Birch Run/Michigan Elite</strong></p> <p><strong>7. [player_tooltip player_id="152528" first="Ella" last="McAllister"], Marshall/FaR Out</strong></p> <p><strong>8. [player_tooltip player_id="108714" first="Taryn" last="Rice"], Northville/Michigan Elite</strong></p> <p><strong>9. [player_tooltip player_id="66333" first="Ella" last="Shields"], Mercy/Legacy</strong></p> <p><strong>10. [player_tooltip player_id="173603" first="Kennedy" last="Hudson"], Lakeland/L2</strong></p> <p><strong>11. [player_tooltip player_id="108758" first="Kate" last="Hotaling"], Forest Hills Central/MVA</strong></p> <p><strong>12. [player_tooltip player_id="140477" first="Madi" last="Derby"], Allendale/FaR Out</strong></p>