In the world of collegiate volleyball, there are few names as synonymous with excellence as Naya Shime. Hailing from Riverton, Wyoming, Shime’s path from a small-town high school standout to a powerhouse at Southern Methodist University (SMU) has been nothing short of inspiring. As the 2024 NCAA Volleyball Championships approach, Shime is set to lead the 10th-ranked SMU Mustangs into the competition, where they’ll face off against Wichita State on Thursday in what promises to be an exciting opening matchup.
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This year marks a pivotal moment in Shime’s journey. A standout athlete from an early age, she was a dominant force in volleyball, track, and field, earning recognition both at the state and national levels. Shime’s story is not just one of athletic prowess, but also determination, versatility, and a commitment to excellence that has shaped her into one of the most formidable athletes in collegiate volleyball.
A Star Is Born: From Riverton to National Recognition
Before her rise to fame at SMU, Shime was already a household name in Wyoming’s sports community. She was a three-time all-state volleyball selection at Riverton High School, where she led the team with her incredible skills as an outside hitter. However, her journey to greatness wasn’t limited to volleyball alone. As a well-rounded athlete, she also excelled in track and field, earning state titles in the long jump and 100-meter hurdles, and showcasing her all-around athleticism.
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Shime’s athleticism wasn’t just about her ability to excel in individual events; it was her leadership on the court and track that helped elevate her teams to new heights. Her talent did not go unnoticed, and after her standout high school career, she made the decision to continue her athletic endeavors at the University of Wyoming, where she would further refine her volleyball skills and take her game to the next level.
A Journey to SMU: The Move That Shaped Her Career
Shime’s time at the University of Wyoming was marked by consistent success. A two-year starter for the Cowgirls, Shime amassed 557 kills, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive strength. However, it was her decision to transfer to Southern Methodist University in Dallas that would truly mark a turning point in her career. At SMU, Shime found herself playing for a team that would elevate her to national recognition.
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Since joining SMU, Shime’s impact has been undeniable. As a 6-foot opposite hitter, she has become the cornerstone of the Mustangs’ offense. This season, she has been nothing short of dominant, leading the team with 363 kills and ranking third in blocks with 113. Her presence on the court has been a major factor in SMU’s impressive 24-7 record this season, and her ability to step up in big moments has been a driving force behind their success.
One of the most notable moments of Shime’s career came on October 12, 2024, when the Mustangs took on No. 1 Pitt in a high-stakes match. In a thrilling 3-2 victory, Shime posted 20 kills and five blocks, leading her team to a historic win and handing the Panthers their only loss of the season. It was performances like these that solidified Shime as one of the top players in the nation and set her apart from her peers.
Leading SMU Into the NCAA Tournament
As the NCAA Volleyball Championships approach, all eyes are on Shime and her role in leading the 10th-ranked Mustangs. SMU’s first matchup is set for Thursday, where they’ll face the Wichita State Shockers in a high-intensity showdown. The Mustangs are the No. 2 seed in the tournament, and Shime’s leadership will be crucial as they look to make a deep run and potentially claim their first NCAA title in program history.
Shime’s experience and poise in high-pressure situations will be invaluable for SMU. Her ability to perform under pressure, showcased in her game-winning performance against Pitt, is a testament to her mental toughness and skill. As a leader on the court, Shime has helped guide SMU to one of its most successful seasons in recent history, and she is poised to carry that momentum into the tournament.
For Shime, this championship run is not just about individual success, but about bringing SMU volleyball to new heights. As a transfer player, she understands the importance of teamwork and cohesion, and she has become a key figure in the Mustangs’ journey to the top. Her leadership extends beyond her impressive statistics, as she has also served as a mentor to younger players on the team, helping to build a culture of excellence and determination at SMU.
Shime’s Impressive Career Beyond College
While the NCAA Volleyball Championships mark a significant chapter in Shime’s career, her athletic journey is far from over. Earlier this year, Shime was selected in the second round of the Pro Volleyball Federation draft, being chosen as the No. 13 overall pick by the Grand Rapids (Michigan) Rise. This selection is a clear indication of her status as one of the top players in the country, and it further solidifies her place as one of the brightest stars in volleyball today.
Shime’s journey is a reflection of the hard work, perseverance, and dedication that has defined her career. From her time as a standout athlete in Wyoming to her rise at SMU, she has continually proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate volleyball. As she leads SMU into the NCAA tournament, Shime’s legacy continues to grow, and her impact on the sport of volleyball will be felt for years to come.
A Legacy of Excellence
As Naya Shime prepares to take the court for the NCAA Volleyball Championships, her story is one of inspiration, resilience, and excellence. From her early days as a high school standout in Wyoming to her current position as the leader of a nationally-ranked college team, Shime’s journey has been a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Her success is a reflection of the dedication she has put into her craft, and it is clear that she is far from done.
For Shime, the road to success has been paved with countless hours of practice, sacrifices, and challenges. But through it all, she has remained focused on her goals and committed to becoming the best version of herself both on and off the court. As she leads SMU into the NCAA Volleyball Championships, there is no doubt that Naya Shime is a name that will continue to be synonymous with excellence in the world of volleyball for years to come.
