GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Grand Rapids Rise, the city’s pro volleyball team, drafted a middle blocker as its first pick, followed by four other college players.
The 2024 Pro Volleyball Federation Draft was held virtually Monday. Grand Rapids had the seventh overall pick, choosing Raven Colvin from Purdue. Later in the draft, the Rise chose opposite hitter Naya Shime, setter Camryn Turner, libero Elena Oglivie and outside hitter Jess Mruzik.
Rise Head Coach Cathy George felt good about the team’s selections.
“The draft went great,” George wrote in a news release. “I’m really excited about how the Grand Rapids Rise fared. We not only got great players, but great human beings. I can’t wait to see what they can bring to our team.”
The new additions can sign with Grand Rapids and join the 12 already-signed players to compete for one of the 14 spots available on the active roster, according to the Rise.
A list of every team’s draft selections can be found on the Pro Volleyball Federation website.
The Rise will play its first game on Jan. 10 in Las Vegas, where they will face The Thrill. The home opener is at Van Andel Arena on Jan. 12 against the Omaha Supernovas.
