The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) has named Raiah Mandell as Minnesota State Moorhead's 'player to watch' for the upcoming 2026 volleyball season. The Dragons are forecasted to finish 11th in the preseason coaches' poll with 86 points. Last year, Moorhead recorded a notable turnaround, finishing the season at 14-15, marking the best total since 2015. Head coach Kari Thompson highlighted the team's experience and the impact of returning players, which will be key for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • Moorhead finished 2025 with 14 wins, a five-win improvement from 2024.
  • Raiah Mandell registered 308 kills and 325 total points in 2025.
State of Play
  • MSUM returns 14 athletes, including six seniors, enhancing team experience.
  • The Dragons aim to build on a strong 2025 season and have scheduled a challenging preseason in Texas.
What's Next

The Dragons will kick off their 2026 season at the Kathleen Brasfield Invitational in Texas, beginning with a match against Texas Permian Basin on August 28. This challenging preseason is expected to prepare them for competitive NSIC conference play.

Bottom Line

With a mix of seasoned players and a promising star in Mandell, MSUM is positioning itself for potential success in the upcoming season. The team's growth and experience could yield a strong performance in the competitive landscape of the NSIC.