Cole Manning said the Palo Verde boys volleyball team is ready for the playoffs next week.
The senior outside hitter made sure of it by helping the Panthers earn a win over another potential state-title contender.
Manning had 14 kills in a five-set victory over Arbor View on April 23. He added 14 kills and 12 digs in a three-set win over Desert Oasis on Thursday.
He was named Nevada Preps Boys Athlete of the Week for his efforts.
“It was a great game (against Arbor View),” Manning said. “There were some ups and downs, but ultimately we came together as a team. We fought hard, made some plays and got a win.”
Let’s get to know this week’s boys athlete of the week. (Note: Answers have been edited for clarity and length.)
Nevada Preps: Who’s an athlete that you look up to?
Manning: For me, Michael Jordan is my guy. He’s the GOAT. He had a great work ethic, great personality and he always worked the hardest and just willed his team to win. That’s inspiring to me.
NP: If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you be playing?
Manning: I would be playing football. I grew up playing football. I played it a little bit last year on the varsity team and volleyball is taxing on your body and stuff. (Football is a) great sport.
NP: What’s been your favorite memory in your volleyball playing career thus far?
Manning: We made it to the state championship game last year and lost, so you’d think it wouldn’t be a great memory. But the feeling of being out there on the court is just amazing, and all the fans and stuff is just unreal.
NP: Do you have any pregame rituals or game-day superstitions that you follow?
Manning: I always say a prayer. I like to go to the gym before and warm up on my own. I got my headphones in and music going. I’ll listen to anything. I got some rap in there. I got some alternative hits. I like singing along and just getting in the mood.
Contact Alex Wright at awright@reviewjournal.com. Follow @AlexWright1028 on X.