Arissa Smith Named to AVCA South All-Region Team

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – For the first time in her career, Arissa Smith was recognized to the AVCA All-South Region Team as an honorable mention, the American Volleyball Coaches' Association announced on Tuesday. She becomes the first Bulldog to be recognized by the organization since 2022.

"I am so proud of Ris for this All-Region recognition," head coach Julie Darty Dennis said. "She truly has developed into one of the best middle blockers in our conference and the region, so for her to earn this is well-deserved. I am excited to see what the future holds for Arissa. I truly love having her in our program, she is a hard worker, determined and a great teammate. Congrats to her and thanks to the AVCA for this recognition."

Smith, a sophomore middle blocker, was a standout for the Bulldogs in the 2024 season. After just playing in two sets her freshman season, Smith took on a larger role this year, playing in 87 sets. The Missouri City, Texas, native led State with a .391 hitting percentage on 176 kills. Her hitting percentage ranked seventh in the conference and among the top 30 in the nation.

On the defensive side of the net, Smith led the Bulldogs with 102 total blocks on the season, including a team-leading 18 solo blocks. Her 1.17 blocks per set ranked just outside of the top 10 in the SEC at 11th.

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Mississippi State University Athletics

Arissa Smith Named to AVCA South All-Region Team

Players Mentioned

Arissa Smith

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