As the Texas Longhorns volleyball team looks ahead to the offseason, a period of reflection and rebuilding is inevitable. The program’s storied success over the years—bolstered by national championships, All-American players, and dominant performances—has set an incredibly high standard. However, with a heartbreaking loss to Creighton in the regional semifinals, the team faces significant challenges in rebuilding for the next season. The 2024 offseason will be critical for head coach Jerritt Elliott and his squad, especially as they work to replace some of their key players, including the irreplaceable Madisen Skinner.
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As the dust settles from another competitive season, here are five pressing questions that will shape the future of Texas volleyball as they head into the offseason.
Who Will Replace Madisen Skinner’s Leadership and Production?
Madisen Skinner was undeniably one of the standout players in college volleyball over the past few years. Her departure from Texas marks the end of an era, and replacing her isn’t just about finding another player who can hit the ball hard; it’s about filling a leadership void. Skinner was a star in every sense—dynamic on the court and a positive influence in the locker room. Her relentless work ethic and ability to remain team-focused have left a lasting impact on the Texas program.
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The question is whether any current players on the roster can step up to fill this immense gap. Devin Kahahawai, a 6-foot-4 junior outside hitter, is the most likely candidate to assume a bigger role next season. Kahahawai showed promise with 1.9 kills per set this season and could evolve into one of the go-to attackers, but it remains to be seen if she can replicate the level of consistency and skill that Skinner brought to the court every match.
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Can Transfer Portal and High School Recruits Bolster the Roster?
As the offseason begins, head coach Jerritt Elliott will look to the transfer portal to potentially bring in a veteran outside hitter or a high-caliber player to strengthen the team. Texas has a strong track record of attracting top-tier transfers, and there’s a good chance they will land a key player who can contribute immediately.
In addition to the transfer portal, the Longhorns have an impressive freshman class lined up. Among the standouts are Macaria Spears from Dallas and Abby Vander Wal from Illinois. Both recruits are ranked among the nation’s top outside hitters and stand at 6-3, which will add significant depth and versatility to the team’s attack. If these freshmen can adjust quickly to the demands of college volleyball, they could be the difference-makers Texas needs to remain competitive at the highest level.
What Will Be the Strength of Next Year’s Team?
While replacing a player of Skinner’s caliber is a daunting task, the Texas volleyball team has one clear advantage: the strength of their middle blockers. Redshirt freshman Marianna Singletary and true freshman Ayden Ames have both been impressive this season and are poised to become stars in the middle. Singletary led the team with 134 blocks and posted a strong .354 hitting percentage, while Ames wasn’t far behind, earning 88 blocks and a .359 hitting percentage.
These two middle blockers are already among the best in the country, and with the addition of another top-tier recruit in 6-3 Taylor Harvey from Utah, the Longhorns’ middle-blocking game should remain a dominant force. The combination of blocking prowess, offensive efficiency, and potential growth from these players could make the middle blockers the team’s biggest strength in 2024.
Who Will Be the Setter for the Longhorns Next Season?
The setter position will be another area to watch closely. Junior Averi Carlson stepped into the starting setter role midway through this season and proved herself to be one of the most efficient setters in the country. Carlson’s leadership and precision have already made her a key part of the team, and it’s likely she will continue in the starting role next year.
However, Texas also has a talented backup in sophomore Ella Swindle, who played a significant role in the team’s national championship win the previous season. Swindle, while seeing limited action this year, could look to transfer or be part of a future competition for the setter position. If Carlson continues to improve, she could establish herself as one of the best setters in college volleyball, ensuring Texas’ offense runs smoothly.
Who Else Will Return for the Longhorns?
In terms of returning players, Texas is in a fortunate position. The Longhorns will have senior libero Emma Halter returning for another season. Halter has been one of the best defensive players in the nation, consistently leading the team with her dig numbers and her leadership on the court. Her experience and vocal presence make her a valuable asset for the Longhorns moving forward, and her ability to inspire others could be key to helping the younger players adjust to the higher level of play.
While the defense will be bolstered by Halter’s return, the team will need to fill the void left by defensive specialist Keonilei Akana, who will not be returning next season. Freshmen Reese Emerick and Rella Binney, who showed flashes of promise, will need to step up and continue developing to ensure Texas maintains its defensive edge.
A Season of Change and Growth
The 2024 offseason promises to be a time of transition for Texas volleyball, but it also represents an opportunity for growth and rebuilding. While the team will miss the leadership and on-court brilliance of Madisen Skinner, they have plenty of young talent and incoming recruits to help fill the void. With a deep roster, experienced players like Emma Halter, and key freshmen and transfers, the Longhorns will look to remain competitive at the top of college volleyball.
The questions facing Texas volleyball as they enter the offseason are complex, but they also highlight the program’s potential for continued success. With the right adjustments, the Longhorns could once again find themselves competing for championships in the coming years. As always, Texas volleyball remains a powerhouse in the NCAA, and the next chapter of their storied program is sure to be just as exciting as the last.
