Lady Grizzlies finish strong season, bring home lessons and pride

Lauren Bassett honored as 2A West Player of the Year

The Rocky Mountain Lady Grizzlies volleyball team closed out the 2025 season at the Wyoming Class 2A State Tournament last weekend, finishing with heart and hustle despite falling to powerhouse programs Big Horn and Greybull.

Though the tournament didn’t go as the team had hoped, head coach Kay Townsend said she couldn’t be prouder of her players’ progress, leadership and unity.

“I hope every player walks away with a deeper understanding of resilience, accountability and teamwork,” Townsend said. “Sports teach us that success isn’t just about talent, it’s about showing up consistently, supporting others and growing through adversity. Those lessons will serve them well in every aspect of life.”

Tough competition, solid performances

West No. 3 seed Rocky Mountain opened the tournament against the East’s No. 2 seed, Big Horn, the eventual state runner-up, falling 22-25, 12-25, 17-25. The following day they faced 2A West Regional champion Greybull, losing 21-25, 15-25, 14-25, but not before showing flashes of the strong defensive play and teamwork that had carried them all season.

In the two-day tournament, senior setter Keylee Christiansen tallied an impressive 100-plus assists, maintaining her composure and precision against some of the toughest hitters in the state. Senior hitters Lauren Bassett and Layla Gardner each posted multiple kills in every match, leading Rocky’s offensive effort, while Halle Grandalen and Kaysie Cooley provided strong back-row defense and solid passing in service receptions.

“Our blocks improved from previous competitions with both Big Horn and Greybull,” Townsend noted. “Even against elite teams, we saw moments where our preparation paid off as players rotated well, stayed disciplined and executed set pieces with confidence. It showed that we belonged there and that our foundation is solid.”

Seniors leave their mark

Coach Townsend highlighted her three seniors, Bassett, Gardner and Christiansen, for their leadership and example.

Lauren Bassett: “Her calm leadership and emotional steadiness carried the team,” Townsend said. “She led by example and showed how consistency in attitude can elevate everyone around you.”

Layla Gardner: “Layla brought unmatched intensity and work ethic, she gave 100% in everything she did. Her drive pushed others to raise their level.”

Keylee Christiansen: “As our setter and playmaker, Keylee’s vision and communication kept everyone connected. She was our floor general.”

Collectively, Townsend said, the seniors taught her “that leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each of them led in their own way, and together they created a culture of accountability, support and excellence that will leave a lasting legacy.”

Respect for the best

Townsend also praised the level of competition from the top two teams.

“Both programs are incredibly well-coached and disciplined,” she said. “Their players were tough, focused and respectful — true competitors. I have deep respect for their coaches, who clearly instill not just skill but character in their teams.”

Looking ahead

While the Lady Grizzlies’ state run ended sooner than they hoped, Townsend believes the experience was invaluable for her younger athletes.

“They saw firsthand the intensity and preparation required to compete at the highest level,” she said. “Watching the seniors handle both victory and defeat with grace was a powerful example of maturity and leadership.”

The Lady Grizzlies close their season proud of their growth, grateful for their seniors and optimistic for what’s ahead. With a solid foundation, a young roster full of potential and a coach who values heart as much as skill, the program looks ready to build on this year’s success.

Lady Grizz state tournament stats

(Combined totals from matches vs. Big Horn and Greybull)

Offensive Leaders:

Christiansen was in on almost every play, with more than 100 touches. 

Bassett: 10 kills, 29 service receptions, 15 digs

Gardner: 4 kills, 20 receptions, 13 digs

Grandalen: 15 kills, 24 receptions, 10 digs

Cooley: 10 kills, 24 receptions, 16 digs

The Rocky Mountain Lady Grizzlies capped off a remarkable volleyball season with a strong showing on the postseason awards lists. In 2A Northwest All-Conference honors, five Lady Grizzlies earned recognition — Bassett, Grandalen, Christiansen, Cooley and Charlee Welling — underscoring the team’s depth and balance.

The accolades didn’t stop there. Bassett was named the 2A Northwest Player of the Year, a reflection of her leadership and consistent dominance on the court. At the regional level, Bassett was joined by Christiansen, Grandalen and Cooley as 2A West All-Regional selections, while Bassett also claimed a coveted spot on the 2A All-State Team.

“We are represented well,” Townsend said. “I am very proud of these girls.”