On Wednesday night, the Orlando Valkyries will return to Michigan to face the Grand Rapids Rise for the fourth and final time this season. Despite already clinching a playoff spot, Orlando would love to continue the hot stretch they’ve gone on as of late. On the other side, even though Grand Rapids has been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs and has nothing to play for, this match will provide a huge challenge for Orlando and can be a huge boost of confidence as they gear up for the playoffs in Vegas.
The Rise have been the best defensive team in the league, holding opponents to a .199 hitting efficiency, due to their incredible blocking up front. They lead the league with 323 blocks, 50 more than the next closest team.
On the season, Orlando is 2-1 against Grand Rapids, with both wins coming at home. Their only loss was a five setter back on January 30.
Key to the Match for Orlando:
Matching Grand Rapids’ defensive intensity: One of the most fascinating areas of this matchup will be how well Orlando can match Grand Rapids’ energy on the defensive side of the net. In both wins this season, Orlando has out blocked Grand Rapids 11-9 and 12-9. Despite Grand Rapids not having as much firepower offensively, they make up for it in their blocking, and that could be the deciding factor in this matchup.
Valkyries Players to Watch:
Norah Sis (Outside Hitter): Ever since Sis earned her first career start against Indy on April 25, she has been a huge boost to this offense. She has recorded a double double in each of her last two matches, including tallying 15 or more points in each. Even though Sis has had a limited role against Grand Rapids, look for her to be a big boost and keep the offense on a roll.
Natalie Foster (Middle Blocker): In three matches versus Grand Rapids this season, Foster has recorded 25 kills, nine blocks and six service aces. Whether it’s with her block, serve, or attack, Foster has provided so much to Orlando this year. Look for that to continue Wednesday night.
By the numbers: The Valkyries are 8-1 when they have a .300 hitting efficiency or higher.
Rise Players to Watch:
Carli Snyder (Outside Hitter): Snyder comes into this matchup leading the Rise in points (356) and kills (288), as she has been a focal point for Grand Rapids this season. Not only can she get it done offensively, she also is lethal from the service line as she has 31 service aces, good for third in the league.
Ali Bastianelli (Middle Blocker): The driving force in Grand Rapids ability to block at a high level has been Ali Bastianelli, who leads the league with 84 blocks. She also has become the first player in PVF history to record 100 blocks in a career. Not only has Bastianelli excelled in the blocking game, but she also ranks seventh in hitting efficiency (.300).
By the numbers: Grand Rapids is 5-0 on the season when they record at least 18 blocks.
ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION
Pro Volleyball Federation is the leading professional volleyball league in the United States. PVF sets the standard for the sport, offering the largest number of franchises, unmatched attendance, extensive broadcast coverage and substantial championship prize money. It combines top-tier talent, including NCAA stars and international athletes, with cutting-edge production and technology to provide fans with an unmatched viewing experience. As a vital link between collegiate volleyball and the professional stage, PVF is dedicated to shaping the future of the sport and increasing visibility for its athletes. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT ORLANDO VALKYRIES
The Orlando Valkyries are a proud member team in the Pro Volleyball Federation — the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. The Valkyries, which began play in January 2024, enter their second season in the league and will once again play out of Addition Financial Arena, located in the heart of the University of Central Florida campus. Season Tickets are on sale now. For more information on how to get all tickets, email Tickets@OrlandoValkyries.com, click on OrlandoValkyries.com, visit the Addition Financial Arena box office or go to the Ticketmaster website: Ticketmaster.com. Fans can follow the team on Facebook or via X, Instagram and TikTok — @ORLValkyries or visit OrlandoValkyries.com.
* Orlando Valkyries, Pro Volleyball, DIG IT! *