The Mizzou volleyball program is heating up this offseason, and head coach Dawn Sullivan isn't done building just yet. In her second roster addition of the week, the Tigers have secured a key piece through the transfer portal: Utah State middle blocker Lauren Larkin. This move brings immediate depth and experience to a position that needed a boost.

Larkin, a standout from the Mountain West, spent her first two collegiate seasons with the Aggies. In 2024, she led the team with an impressive 100 blocks, proving to be a formidable presence at the net. But she's not just a defensive specialist—Larkin also made her mark offensively, averaging 1.27 kills per set while hitting a stellar .408. Her breakout moment came in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Tennessee, where she tallied eight kills, two blocks, and three digs in a performance that showcased her all-around game.

Hailing from St. George, Utah, Larkin was a force at Desert Hills High School, earning 2023 AVCA Girls High School All-Region honors and First-Team All-State recognition. Her high school numbers were eye-popping: a .484 hitting clip and 2.1 blocks per match, setting the stage for her collegiate success.

With the graduation of starting middle blockers Tyrah Ariail and Regan Haith, Larkin steps into a golden opportunity. She's expected to make an immediate impact alongside fellow transfer Ainoah Cruz, giving Mizzou a much-needed infusion of production and experience. This is especially critical for a Tigers roster that leans heavily on underclassmen.

Larkin's steady, steadfast style should help anchor the defense at the net, complementing the size of setter Nina Mandovic. While the Tigers may be done adding for now, Coach Sullivan has shown she's not afraid to pull a surprise. For Mizzou fans, this addition signals a team that's serious about reloading—not rebuilding.