High school volleyball playoffs: Randall and Bushland advance, season ends for several other teams

The intensity of high school volleyball in the Texas Panhandle doesn’t go unnoticed this time of year. With gymnasiums packed, student sections loud, and seasons on the line, the regional playoff rounds always seem to deliver drama. And this week was no different, as several Panhandle powers battled to extend their postseason runs. When the dust settled, just one UIL Class 4A team from the region remained standing — the Randall Lady Raiders — and perennial powerhouse Bushland continued its familiar march in Class 3A.

Randall Lady Raiders Survive and Advance

Randall didn’t just win — they earned it in a four-set thriller over Krum on Thursday in Vernon, taking the match 25-20, 23-25, 25-19, 27-25. It was one of those playoff matches where momentum mattered, and the Lady Raiders grabbed it in the third set and never let go.

Freshman standout Chloe Brown put on a performance that didn’t look anything like a first-year varsity player. Brown hammered down a game-high 28 kills and added 15 digs to complete a double-double that played a major role in shifting the match in Randall’s direction.

Not far behind, Amber Matthews was all business at the net, powering through the Krum defense for 18 kills and three blocks. And of course, none of this happens without solid setting. Bennet Moore tallied 28 assists and Madelyn Sisomsouk chipped in 21, combining for 49 and keeping the Randall offense in rhythm.

On the defensive back line, Kambree Gonzalez kept rallies alive and transition opportunities rolling with 19 digs and three service aces, impacting the match in multiple ways.

The Lady Raiders (29-14) will now move on to the Region I-4A Division II championship for the third straight season. They’ll take on Eagle Mountain (35-11) at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Sweetwater High School.

Eagle Mountain comes in with confidence after sweeping Canyon on Thursday, 25-18, 25-14, 25-10.

Canyon’s Run Comes to a Close

Though the Lady Eagles from Eagle Mountain advanced, Canyon’s season ends with pride. They finished at 22-16 overall, and Laney Jones left it all on the court with a 13-kill, 12-dig double-double. Klair Stone led the defensive effort with 21 digs.

Sometimes the bracket just doesn’t break your way — but Canyon will be back. They always are.

Bushland Keeps the Tradition Alive

In Class 3A, the Bushland Lady Falcons are doing what Bushland does — win postseason matches. The Lady Falcons flew past Jim Ned with a clean sweep, 25-9, 25-20, 25-22, in Childress.

Bushland has now won 16 straight playoff matches dating back to 2023 and is headed to its seventh consecutive regional championship under head coach Jason Culpepper. That’s not just a good program — that’s a dynasty.

Laynee Adams was outstanding on both ends of the floor, recording 11 kills and 15 digs for yet another double-double in this playoff run. Ava Permenter made the Jim Ned attack feel claustrophobic, collecting a stunning 40 digs, while Dani Campbell controlled the net defensively with six blocks. Morgan Eberly guided the offense efficiently with 26 assists.

Bushland will face Peaster (38-12-1) for the Region I-3A Division I title — details still to come.

West Plains, Tascosa, and Amarillo High Bow Out After Strong Seasons

West Plains pushed defending 4A Division I state champion Decatur but ultimately fell in straight sets, finishing the season at 32-12. Aaniyah Kitchen led the way with 11 kills and three blocks, while Teagan Hudson and Cecilia Murillo played strong supporting roles.

In Class 5A play, Tascosa ran into a powerful Birdville squad and was swept 25-21, 25-21, 25-16. The Lady Rebels wrap up the season at 29-12, highlighted by strong play from Avery Scalf, Berkley Harper, Libby Miller, and Bennet Berryman—who led Tascosa with 15 kills.

Amarillo High also saw its season end, falling to Aledo in four sets. The Lady Sandies finish 33-8, but the bigger story is that they will carry a 67-match district win streak into next year — a symbol of long-term excellence.

Harper Vaughn was unstoppable at times, posting 22 kills, 8 blocks, and 20 assists. Senior Kinsler Hanson ended her career with heart, adding 15 kills and 16 digs.

What Comes Next

Randall vs. Eagle Mountain

Region I-4A Division II Championship

Tuesday, 6:30 PM – Sweetwater High School

Bushland vs. Peaster

Region I-3A Division I Championship

Time & Site: To Be Announced

Two teams remain. Two fanbases still buzzing. And two programs ready to fight for a ticket to state.

The playoffs only get better from here.