Lipscomb University announced on Mar. 26 that Carly Graham will join the Bisons volleyball program as an assistant coach for the 2026 season.
The addition of Graham completes the coaching staff for the upcoming year, bringing professional playing experience and collegiate coaching background to the team. The university said her hiring aims to support player development and continue building on Lipscomb Volleyball’s established success.
Graham, a former All-American setter, has played professionally in Major League Volleyball and Athletes Unlimited. She is currently in her fourth season of professional volleyball, including a spot on the 2026 San Diego Mojo roster. Her previous professional experience includes stints with Galeb Liko Soho Group in Montenegro during the 2023 season, signing with Orlando Valkyries in 2024, and Vegas Thrill in 2025. She also participated in Athletes Unlimited’s Pro Volleyball Championship in fall of 2025.
Head coach Sarah Baldwin said, “Carly Graham brings All-American credentials, professional experience, and has an exceptional handle on the game as a coach at the D-I level. I am excited for her to help develop our players as we continue to work, not only to continue the winning tradition of Lipscomb Volleyball but to raise the standard. We are building something special here.”
Before her professional career, Graham served as an assistant coach at Texas State University from 2023-24 where she worked primarily with setters and offensive systems for the Bobcats. During her tenure there, Ryann Torres was named Sun Belt Setter of the Year and Texas State made two NCAA Tournament appearances along with winning the Sun Belt Tournament Championship in 2024.
Graham played five seasons at Rice University where she was recognized twice as an All-American by the American Volleyball Coaches Association and three times as Conference USA Setter of the Year honoree. She ranks second all-time at Rice for sets played (510) and third all-time for assists (4,296). During her junior year she also participated with U.S. Collegiate National Team.
“I am so incredibly excited to be joining the Lipscomb Volleyball family,” said Graham. “I am so grateful to Sarah [Baldwin] for the opportunity, and cannot wait to get to work with her and Lauren [Deaton]. During this process it was really apparent how special of a place and people are here… I am super excited to be a Bison and get started!”
A native of Spring, Texas, Graham graduated from Rice University in December 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
