Top 5 Returning Outside Hitters for 2025 College Volleyball Season
The 2025 women’s college volleyball season is almost here, and honestly, it’s hard not to feel the buzz. Fans are eager to watch some of the best returning outside hitters take the court again.
These athletes have already shown what they can do with some jaw-dropping performances. Their teams are counting on them to step up in a big way this season.
Let’s run through the top five returning outside hitters for 2025, plus one more who barely missed the cut. Their stats and game-changing moments make them must-watch players.
Top Returning Outside Hitters for the 2025 Season
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The countdown is on, and a few names stand out as the outside hitters to watch. Each has proven skills and could easily tilt the scales for their team.
Brooklyn DeLeye – Kentucky
At the top, we’ve got Brooklyn DeLeye, the 2024 SEC Player of the Year from Kentucky. Her stats are wild: 5.59 points and 4.87 kills per set on average.
In her sophomore year, she led the Wildcats with 56 aces and averaged 0.78 blocks per set. DeLeye plays all six rotations and can take over a match when she wants to.
Her leadership and energy are hard to ignore. She’s definitely a player you won’t want to miss this season.
Harper Murray – Nebraska
Next up is Harper Murray from Nebraska, who took home the 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year award. Murray might be the best passer among these hitters, with a 59.2% in-system passing rate last season.
She also put up 2.4 digs and four points per set. Murray’s knack for handling pressure and delivering in clutch moments gives Nebraska a real edge.
There’s just something about her—it factor, maybe—that sets her apart when the stakes are high.
Torrey Stafford – Texas
Torrey Stafford made a big move to Texas and lands at number three. Her hitting efficiency stands out, with a .358 hitting percentage last season at Pitt.
She hit at least .400 in 15 matches and averaged 4.2 points per set. Now at Texas, Stafford should get even more opportunities to shine.
Eva Hudson – Kentucky
Eva Hudson joins this list as another Kentucky standout. Last season at Purdue, she led the Big Ten with 567 kills and 4.81 kills per set.
She also averaged 5.2 points per set and came close to a .300 hitting percentage in her junior year. Hudson, the 2022 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, is known for her power and smart shot selection.
Her blocking’s solid, too. With both Hudson and DeLeye, Kentucky looks stacked this year.
Elia Rubin – Stanford
Finishing out the top five is Elia Rubin from Stanford. Rubin, a two-time Pac-12 champ, brings loads of experience into her senior season.
She’s a versatile player, averaging over 4.5 points per set and passing 54% in system. Rubin’s leadership and ability to impact every part of the game could be huge for Stanford.
Honorable Mention
There’s one more player worth a shout-out for her standout play.
Mimi Colyer – Wisconsin
Mimi Colyer from Wisconsin earns the honorable mention spot. She recently transferred from Oregon and brings a 3.97 kills and 4.73 points per set average with her.
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Colyer notched five 20-kill matches and nine double-doubles as a junior. As the 2022 AVCA Freshman of the Year, she adds real depth and experience to the Badgers’ roster.
Conclusion
The 2025 women’s college volleyball season is shaping up to be something special. These top returning outside hitters are ready to make a big impact.
Brooklyn DeLeye stands out for her dominance at Kentucky. Harper Murray, on the other hand, has delivered clutch moments for Nebraska.
Each player has their own style, and honestly, that’s what makes this sport so fun to follow. If you’re a fan, you’ll want to keep an eye on these athletes as the season unfolds.
Want all the details? Head to the full article on the NCAA website.