LOVB Austin officially returns for the 2026-2027 season with the firm intention of defending its two historic crowns from 2025 and 2026. In a rapidly expanding League One Volleyball that is growing to include ten teams, the back-to-back champions have loaded their roster with eight returning title-winners alongside elite new signings to chase a third consecutive trophy.
Setters and Opposites
The right side features elite scoring power with the return of star opposites Madisen Skinner (the inaugural Finals MVP) and veteran Juliann Faucette. Setting up the attack is returning champion Brie Fransen (née O'Reilly), who is now paired with exciting new signing Camryn Haworth, a heavily decorated All-Big Ten playmaker making her debut in Austin.
Outside Hitters
While champion Bailey Miller returns to the pin, Austin has heavily upgraded its wing depth with two major new acquisitions. The squad welcomes new addition Claire Chaussee, an ACC Player of the Year who transfers in from LOVB Madison.
However, the biggest blockbuster move of the offseason is the signing of premier outside hitter Brooke Nuneviller. She makes the jump to LOVB from the rival Major League Volleyball, where she served as the face of their flagship franchise, the Omaha Supernovas. Nuneviller arrives in Austin with an incredible championship pedigree, having led Omaha to the inaugural PVF league title in 2024, followed by a spectacular individual campaign where she was officially named the league's Outside Hitter (OH) of the Season in 2025.
Middle Blockers
The net defense remains a massive wall, retaining its core championship trio of Asjia O'Neal, Molly McCage, and Bella Bergmark. 
They are joined this season by new acquisition Skyy Howard, a high-level blocker who brings valuable professional experience from Europe to reinforce Austin's central defense.
Liberos and Defensive Specialists
Championship back-row anchor Madi Banks (née Kubik) is back to lock down the floor defense. She will share defensive duties with two stellar new defensive signings: Italian standout Beatrice Negretti, who moves over from LOVB Atlanta, and Texas native Lauren Briseño, a premier receiver who joins the team from LOVB Houston.
Overall, next season's roster looks incredibly strong and well-balanced. However, it remains to be seen whether this upgraded squad will be capable of defeating increasingly experienced and battle-hardened rivals for a third consecutive time in a highly competitive league.
Photos: LOVB Austin