Carolina Volleyball 2026 Newcomers
Article by: Jeff Blackwood
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Carolina's roster already features a strong veteran core, but the future of the program got another boost with the addition of freshmen Addison West, Carly Markham, and Lindley Miller.
Each arrives from a successful high school career with a different strength. West gives the Tar Heels another powerful option on the outside, Markham strengthens the back row, and Miller brings versatility across the front line. They provide Carolina with quality depth while adding another talented recruiting class to the program.
Addison West | Outside Hitter
Omaha, Neb. | Skutt Catholic | Premier Nebraska Volleyball
Addison West arrives in Chapel Hill with quite the résumé.
The 6-foot-2 outside hitter starred at Skutt Catholic High School, where she finished her career as the program's all-time leader in kills with more than 1,600. She helped the SkyHawks win multiple Nebraska state championships, earned AVCA Second Team All-America honors, and was named the 2025-26 Nebraska Gatorade Player of the Year.
West's production is impressive, but it's not the only reason she's considered one of the top newcomers in the ACC. She can terminate points from either pin, defend in the back row, and put pressure on opponents with her serve. Her complete game should help ease her transition to the college level.
Carolina returns plenty of experience on the pins, so West won't have to do everything from day one. Her talent makes her someone to watch as she settles into the lineup and adjusts to the speed of the college game.
Photo Courtesy of UNC Athletics Carly Markham | Libero/Defensive Specialist
Apex, N.C. | Apex Friendship | Triangle Volleyball Club
Keeping one of the state's top defensive players close to home was a win for the Tar Heels.
The 5-foot-8 libero/defensive specialist built her reputation on consistency. Whether it was serve receive, digging attacks, or keeping rallies alive, she became the type of player teammates could rely on every match.
Markham’s style of play should translate well to the college level. She covers the floor well, stays composed under pressure, and understands how to keep an offense in rhythm with quality first contacts.
As Carolina fills the hole left by Maddy May’s graduation, Markham will be counted on to contribute to the defensive rotation.
Photo Courtesy of UNC Athletics Lindley Miller | Outside Hitter/Opposite
Cary, N.C. | Green Level | Triangle Volleyball Club
Lindley Miller gives the Tar Heels another athletic option who can play multiple positions.
The 6-foot-4 outside/opposite hitter helped lead Green Level High School to an undefeated season and a North Carolina state championship as a senior. Miller’s offensive versatility and length fit well with Carolina's system. Her height and reach should immediately add to UNC's blocking game while also providing another powerful attack option.
Like many freshmen, there will be an adjustment period, but Miller's versatility should allow Carolina to use her in a variety of situations as she continues to grow.
Photo Courtesy of UNC Athletics Complementing the Roster
Carolina didn't need a large recruiting class to address its biggest needs. Instead, the Tar Heels added three players whose strengths complement an experienced roster. It is worth noting that the positive culture Coach Schall fosters at Carolina continues to be a factor in recruiting. All three freshmen mentioned the coaching staff and the team culture in one way, shape, or form as factors in their decision to come to Carolina. Love each other. Love the game. Love Carolina.
West brings the potential to become another impact attacker. Markham adds depth and stability to the back row. Miller provides another versatile front-row option capable of developing into a key contributor over time.
As the season unfolds, all three freshmen will have the opportunity to learn from a veteran group while competing for meaningful roles. Their arrival not only strengthens Carolina's depth for 2026 but also helps position the program for continued success in the years ahead.