Three UT Permian Basin volleyball players have been named to the Lone Star Conference (LSC) preseason players to watch list ahead of the 2026 season. Sophomore Makenna Grimes, sophomore Kyndall Torres, and junior Kierra Freeman stand out as key players for the Falcons, who are projected to finish 12th in the conference. Last season, UTPB ended with an 11-16 overall record, marking the second consecutive season they finished above .500 in LSC play鈥攁 historic achievement for the program. New Head Coach Melissa Avila will guide the team into this promising season starting August 27.

By the Numbers
  • Makenna Grimes: 210 kills, 2.19 kills per set, 18 kills in a single match
  • Kyndall Torres: 294 digs, 3.20 digs per set, 27 digs in a single match
  • Kierra Freeman: 705 assists, 7.83 assists per set, 51 assists in a single match
State of Play
  • UTPB is predicted to finish 12th in the LSC preseason poll with 410 points.
  • Angelo State leads the poll with 951 points and 41 first-place votes.
  • Falcons open the season against Fort Lewis College and Minnesota State University Moorhead on September 4.
What's Next

The 2026 LSC volleyball season begins on August 27, with UTPB aiming to improve its standing in the conference while building on last year's success. The Falcons' early matches will be pivotal for team morale and performance through the season.

Bottom Line

With three standout players recognized before the season begins, UTPB has a foundation for potential success. The Falcons must leverage their teamwork and the strength of their key athletes to surpass last season's records and contend in the competitive LSC.