GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Rise libero Morgan Hentz has been named the Major League Volleyball Player of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday.
Hentz totaled 45 digs across two matches last week, averaging 6.4 digs per set. She led the Rise with 20 digs in a 3-0 loss Thursday to the San Diego Mojo, as Grand Rapids recorded 76 digs — the most ever in a three-set match in MLV history. On Sunday in Orlando, Hentz posted a season-high 25 digs in a 3-1 road victory. Her 25 digs rank as the second-most in a four-set match in Rise history and fifth-most overall in franchise history. She also added seven assists over the two matches.
The Rise acquired Hentz in a Feb. 13 trade with the Omaha Supernovas in exchange for Elena Oglivie and a 2026 first-round draft pick.
Hentz leads the MLV with 220 digs this season.
The honor marks the second MLV Player of the Week award of Hentz’s career and the seventh in franchise history for the Rise. She previously earned the award last season with the Atlanta Vibe. Hentz is one of two liberos — alongside San Diego’s Shara Venegas — to ever receive the league’s weekly honor, presented by Franklin Sports.
The Rise return to action Saturday, March 7, hosting Hentz’s former team, the Omaha Supernovas. First serve is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Van Andel Arena.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE VOLLEYBALL
Major League Volleyball, competing in its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT THE GRAND RAPIDS RISE
The Grand Rapids Rise made their debut in January 2024 and will play their third season in 2026 as members of Major League Volleyball. Led by longtime Michigan State and Western Michigan head coach Cathy George, the Rise reached the championship match during their inaugural season and rank among the top U.S. women’s pro volleyball teams in attendance. The team is operated by DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and owned by Dan DeVos, who is also majority owner and CEO of the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins and minority owner of Athletic Club Grand Rapids, which will begin play in MLS NEXT Pro in 2027. Visit grrise.com for more information.
Photo by Nicolas Carrillo/Rise