The University of Wisconsin women’s volleyball landed one of the top prospects in the world on Thursday as Decelise Champion announced her commitment to the Badgers on social media.
Champion, a 6-foot-5 opposite/outside hitter from Puerto Rico, had narrowed her choices down to UW and Nebraska, both college volleyball powerhouses, and ended up choosing the Badgers after a recent visit to the UW campus. She posted the news on Instagram on Thursday.
“I am SUPER excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at the University of Wisconsin!! First, I want to thank God for all the blessings He has placed in my life and for opening the doors to this amazing opportunity,” she wrote. “A huge thank you to my parents for their endless love and support — I couldn’t have gotten here without them.”
At the age of 14, Champion was the youngest player ever to play for Puerto Rico’s national team. She finished as the top scorer in the NORCECA Final Four in September and has been on the radar of the top NCAA and international teams. She’s considered by many to be the top prospect in the entire world out of the 2027 class.
“Thank you as well to all my coaches, my agent, friends, teammates, and family who have been by my side every step of the way,” Champion said. “And a B1G thank you to Coach Kelly, Coach Brittany, and Coach Gary for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. GO BADGERS!!”
The Wisconsin women’s volleyball team is currently ranked No. 7 in the country. The Badgers host 23rd-ranked UCLA at the Field House tonight at 7 p.m.
