Heritage Hall eyes 4A breakthrough
The Oklahoma high school volleyball state tournaments for Classes 4A and 3A are set to begin Friday.
Shawnee will host the 4A tournament. The quarterfinals will be held Friday, the semifinals and finals are scheduled for Saturday. Choctaw will host the 3A quarterfinals. The semifinals and finals will be at Shawnee.
Here are some storylines and players to watch at the tournaments.
Top storylines
Community Christian eyes another title: The Royals are back in the 3A state tournament and have a stellar leader in sophomore Landry Braziel, who will try to help the program claim its second straight championship and fourth overall. Community Christian will open against Chisholm. If the Royals advance, they will play the Broken Arrow Summit Christian-Oklahoma Union winner in the semifinals.
Bethany looks to make most of opportunity: The Bronchos failed to advance to the 4A state tournament but have been given another life. Catoosa was originally set to compete but was removed because of a rule violation related to the participation of an ineligible player. Bethany took Catoosa’s spot and will attempt to make a run. Bethany will play Tulsa Regent Prep in the quarterfinals.
Heritage Hall among teams aiming to knock off powerhouse: Tulsa Victory Christian won the 5A state title last year, its fourth consecutive championship, and is now in 4A. The Conquerors are the team to beat. Among the teams looking to knock off the powerhouse is Heritage Hall. The Chargers are 19-11 and will take a three-match win streak into their quarterfinal matchup against Verdigris.
Players to watch
Sydney Balmes, Jr., North Rock Creek: She had strong performances in North Rock Creek’s two regional victories. Balmes had 21 kills, 46 digs and six aces, helping North Rock Creek advance to the 4A state tournament.
Landry Braziel, So., Community Christian: A finalist last year for The Oklahoman’s All-City Volleyball Player of the Year award, Braziel is one of the top young players in the state. She has led Community Christian to a 34-3 record, and the Royals will attempt to claim their second straight title.
Wellesley Miller, Sr., Bethany: The outside hitter and libero is a valuable leader for the Bronchos, who will take a 20-15 record into Friday. “She works hard and is always willing to play the position needed in the moment,” Bethany coach Kerri Cagle said.