Here is the breakdown of Michella Chester’s top 12 freshmen — in no particular order — who are making waves in the 2023 season.
Nebraska: Harper Murray, OH | Andi Jackson MB | Bergen Reilly, S
Nothing says freshmen impact like a trio of first years in the starting lineup of the No. 2 team in the country. The Huskers’ thrilling success this season can largely be attributed to these three standouts. There’s Harper Murray on the outside, with 184 kills on .293 hitting. In the middle, Andi Jackson presents an offensive threat, hitting a whopping .404 this season and connecting well with setter, and fellow freshman, Bergen Reilly. Reilly has 541 assists on a Huskers team hitting .293.
Pitt: Olivia Babcock, RS | Torrey Stafford, OH
A freshman duo headlines No. 8 Pitt’s continued stance in the top 10. Olivia Babcock and Torrey Stafford have five ACC honors between them and have helped their squad to a .305 hitting percentage on the season. Babcock’s killer jump serve has reaped 19 aces this season and her 189 kills lead the team. Stafford won the OH position and is a threat at 177 kills,
Tor gets her 10th kill, and Clemson calls a timeout! Time to finish…
