Making their first ever trip to the postseason, the Orlando Valkyries will face off against the Atlanta Vibe in the single elimination semifinal match on Friday night, with first serve slated to start around 10:30 p.m. ET.
Atlanta and Orlando played four times against one another in the regular season, splitting the season series 2-2, with each team going 1-1 at home and on the road.
Keys to the Match for Orlando:
Staying Aggressive on Offense: In both wins against Atlanta this year, Orlando finished with a .280 hitting efficiency or higher, but in both losses, Orlando failed to reach .200. Despite such differences in how the offensive numbers have played, Orlando’s aggressiveness will be a huge factor to watch come Friday. Leading the league with a .248 efficiency, the Valkyries have all the firepower to score points in a hurry.
Valkyries Players to Watch:
Natalie Foster (Middle Blocker): Foster has been a force behind the service line this season, setting a league record with 64 service aces this season. In the meetings against Atlanta, Foster has recorded higher than a .320 efficiency three times, making her an intriguing player to watch on Friday. Whether it’s with her serve or swing, look for Foster to continue lighting it up just like she has all year.
Brittany Abercrombie (Opposite Hitter): Winning the 2025 PVF Opposite Hitter of the Year award, Abercrombie has been so difficult to stop. With the chemistry her and Chompoo have together, they are one of the best setter-hitter duos in the entire league. In both wins she has put up north of 15 kills, as she plays a big part in helping this potent offense run at a high level.
By the numbers: The Valkyries have a 17-4 record when they finish with a .200 hitting efficiency or higher in a single match.
Vibe Players to Watch:
Morgan Hentz (Libero): The 2025 Libero of the Year, Hentz is a pure lockdown when it comes to the back row. Atlanta is at its best when Hentz is involved, as she was a major role in Atlanta winning a league-best 13 straight matches.
Leah Edmond (Outside Hitter): Ranking in the top five in kills (409), service aces (41), and digs (310), Edmond has been delivering in all three phases of the court. Atlanta’s go-to option, Edmond can rack up the points in a hurry.
By the numbers: Atlanta has a 2-6 record when they finish with three or less service aces in a single match.
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! *