Texas Longhorns Volleyball Star Ayden Ames: Career, Family, Achievements, and More
Just a day ago, the Texas Longhorns electrified Gregory Gymnasium with an emphatic sweep of No. 19 USC, 26-24, 25-20, 25-22, in front of a roaring, sold-out crowd. The Longhorns (20-6) secured their spot in the NCAA Regional for the 19th consecutive season—a streak unmatched across the nation. Amid the frenzy, one name stood out: Ayden Ames. The freshman phenom towered at the net, delivering seven blocks and adding two kills to seal the victory. But this wasn’t just a one-off performance. In the first round against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Ames dominated with eight kills and five blocks, showcasing her undeniable star power. Since joining the Longhorns in 2023, Ayden Ames has turned heads, broken records, and proven she’s a force to be reckoned with. Let’s take a deeper dive into the life and achievements of this game-changing athlete!
The Family Behind the Star
Ayden Ames’ journey to stardom is no accident; it’s rooted in her family’s rich athletic tradition. Her mother, Laura Ames, was a dual-sport athlete at Lewis University, excelling in both volleyball and basketball. Today, Laura channels her expertise as the College Recruiting Director for 1 United Volleyball Club, mentoring the next generation of players. Ayden’s father, David Thau, and her siblings, Jake and Julia, have been her constant pillars of support. Born in sunny Los Angeles and later relocating to Texas, Ayden grew up immersed in a family that emphasized hard work, discipline, and teamwork.
Earlier this year, Ayden’s family was there to celebrate a landmark moment when she was named the Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year. Overcome with emotion, Ayden embraced her mom in a heartfelt hug, symbolizing the culmination of years of dedication. With such a solid support system, it’s no wonder Ayden has already achieved so much and shows no signs of slowing down.
Achievements That Speak Volumes
Ayden Ames arrived at Texas with a resume that could make any seasoned athlete envious. Her high school career was nothing short of legendary. As a senior at Prosper High, she led her team to a 37-10 record, culminating in a historic run to the 6A state semifinals. Along the way, she racked up an astounding 1,594 kills, 312 blocks, and 96 aces. These stats cemented her status as one of the best players in the nation.
In 2023, Ayden’s talent caught the eye of national selectors, earning her a spot on Team USA’s U19 squad. She played a pivotal role in securing the FIVB U19 World Championship—a testament to her ability to shine on the global stage. Her accolades didn’t stop there. Ayden was named a 2023-24 Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year, an AVCA First Team All-American, and a 2023 Under Armour All-American.
The Transition to College Volleyball
January 2024 marked a new chapter for Ayden as she signed her National Letter of Intent with Texas Volleyball, ranked No. 3 in the nation. Stepping into one of the most competitive programs in college volleyball, Ayden wasted no time making an impact. Her ability to dominate at the net and adapt to the college game has been nothing short of remarkable.
Off the court, Ayden has embraced the opportunities of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Partnering with Valor Sports Agency, she’s building a brand that reflects her powerhouse presence on and off the court. Fans can even own a piece of Ayden’s journey with her Panini College Volleyball NIL Rookie Card, available online. From smashing records to sealing deals, Ayden Ames is a name to watch.
The Future Looks Bright
Ayden Ames has only just begun to write her legacy. With her unparalleled talent, determination, and support system, she’s destined to achieve even greater heights in volleyball and beyond. The Texas Longhorns’ fiery star is here to stay, and fans can’t wait to see what’s next. Stay tuned, because Ayden Ames is just getting started.
