Takeaways from volleyball’s spring Mizzou Invitational

Mandovic played the vast majority of the game, frequently looking like the best player on the floor. Her touch seemed truly elite when it came to both her serves and passing, putting the Tiger hitters in perfect positions to drive home a kill. Plus, at 6-foot-1, her size at the net was a major asset with several solo blocks in the game against SLU. She even managed to drive home a kill to a thunderous reaction from her team.

Dudley played a relatively minor role, mostly supplemental on the service line. She continues to search for her spot on the team after an extremely strong season back in 2023 before Crownover’s arrival.

As a whole the setter position seems to have a clear vision heading into 2026, anchored by some clear offseason advancement from Mandovic.

HBO: Hitters, Blockers, Oh Yeah!

With the graduation of players like Caylen Alexander and Janet deMarrais and no incoming transfers at the OH position, there were plenty of questions as to what the offense would look like this year.

Saturday’s performance was an encouraging breath of fresh air, with several players appearing to make significant strides since the fall. Paige Felder was the most impressive offensive weapon, leading the team in kills against SLU (by my rough estimate) with a healthy mix of hard-hit balls and a feathery touch. It seems like she is projected to be the Tigers’ kill leader next year if all goes according to plan.

Maca Lobaglio and Grace O’Reilly were the primary rotational players at right side, each having several bright spots during the matches. Kimani Johnson was inconsistent but had several hard-hit kills that showed how much of a momentum-shifter she can be. Claire Morrissey started out rough with a misread in/out call and a service error, before responding late with an ace. Tia Phinezy and freshman Millie Bauer played significant roles in the middle blocker position, each contributing several kills and blocks thanks in part to their steadfast positioning.

As a whole it was an impressive first look at a team that is still missing several of its incoming freshmen, meaning more talent is on the way. With what’s shaping up to be an uber-competitive non-conference slate and the usual grind of the SEC, Mizzou appears poised to head back to the NCAA Tournament.