Editor’s note: This story is published in the Austin Sports Journal’s 2025 Austin Volleyball Preview™, only available to subscribers. It is part of the 20-page college preview inside the magazine that previews all major Division I and Division II colleges in the state.
By Michael Adams
Austin Sports Journal
Texas Tech is back with a reloaded lineup, veteran leadership and fresh energy.
The Red Raiders finished 14–16 overall and 7–11 in the Big 12 last fall, but signs of progress and a busy offseason have the Red Raiders poised for much improvement in 2025.
Head coach Tony Graystone enters his 10th season in Lubbock with a roster that blends experienced graduate players and a promising group of underclassmen.
With a new setter, increased depth on the front line and a strong defensive core, Texas Tech is aiming for a push to postseason contention.
The Red Raiders said goodbye to several seniors, including contributors at setter and outside hitter. But Graystone and his staff hit the transfer portal to bring in much-needed experience – most notably graduate setter Peyton Dunn, who is expected to take over as the team’s primary distributor.
Also joining the fold is graduate opposite hitter Simone Overbeck, a high-IQ player who brings front-row versatility and scoring ability.
Sophomore Addie Kanouff returns after earning valuable court time last season, showing potential as a six-rotation player. She’ll be joined on the outside by freshman Kenna McKenzie, a powerful attacker who could make an early impact.
Opposite duties will fall to Simone Overbeck, who adds a steady presence on the right pin and will be a key target in the Red Raiders’ revamped offense.
Freshman Lauren Buchanan could also work into the outside rotation, bringing length and swing range to the front line.
In the middle, graduate senior Aliyah McDonald returns as a leader at the net. She’ll be joined by freshman Taylor Bahnub, a long, athletic middle who brings quickness and raw potential.
Junior Sierra Grizzle anchors the defense as the projected starting libero. A reliable passer with sharp court awareness, she’ll be tasked with leading a young back row while supporting Dunn’s transition into the setting role. Look for Lake Travis alum Emily Contreras to see significant playing time backing up Grizzle.
With Dunn at the helm of the offense and Grizzle patrolling the back, Tech has a strong veteran spine that could stabilize the team early in the season.
If the Red Raiders can build early chemistry with Dunn running the offense and get consistent production from their young pin hitters, a finish in the top half of the Big 12 is within reach. A return to the postseason—whether the NCAA Tournament or NIVC—is a realistic and motivating goal.
Projected starting lineup
OH/RS – Addie Kanouff (#3), 6-5, soph., Englewood, CO
OH/RS – Kenna McKenzie (#6),6-1, fr., Waco
OPP – Lauren Buchanan (37), 6-1, fr., Chelsea Alabama
MB – Aliyah McDonald (#5), 6-0, grad., Pearland
MB – Taylor Bahnub (#1), 6-2, fr., Dublin, OH
S – Peyton Dunn (#2), 5-11, grad., Decatur
DS/L – Sierra Grizzle (#8), 5-6, jr., Boise, ID
Breakout candidate
Kenna McKenzie, fresh., OH
Freshman Kenna McKenzie arrives in Lubbock as a high-upside attacker with a strong prep pedigree. She’s already turning heads with her power, footwork and poise. If she adjusts quickly to the college game, she could be the team’s breakout performer in 2025.
Our take
Texas Tech won’t sneak up on anyone in the Big 12, but the pieces are in place for a bounce-back year. The combination of graduate leaders and impact freshmen gives Graystone lineup flexibility and the kind of depth Tech lacked last fall. If the Red Raiders can build early chemistry, a finish in the top half of the Big 12 is within reach.
