Atlanta Vibe Bring Back Core Stars, Add Championship Libero to Open 2027 Free Agency

The Atlanta Vibe are keeping a major part of their core together heading into the 2027 Major League Volleyball season.

Atlanta announced Wednesday the return of starters Leah Edmond, Aiko Jones, Taylor Smith and Khori Louis while also adding libero Zoe Jarvis as the Major League Volleyball free agency window opened.

The group brings back veteran production, leadership and familiarity for a Vibe roster looking to continue building toward championship contention.

Leah Edmond Continues Historic Run with Atlanta

Outside hitter Leah Edmond returns as the only Major League Volleyball player to remain with their original franchise since the league began.

Edmond was the first player signed in league history and has continued to build one of the most decorated resumes in MLV. She was named the league’s 2024 MVP, is a two time All Star and became the first player in league history to surpass 1,000 career kills. She is also the only player to earn all league honors in each of the league’s first three seasons.

“From the very beginning of MLV, Atlanta has been home. I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” Edmond said. “I’m thrilled to continue my journey with the Vibe and look forward to continuing to make an impact in the community and on the court.”

Edmond remained one of the league’s top offensive threats during the 2026 season. She finished fourth in MLV in kills with 382 and fourth in total points with 436 while tying for fifth in service aces with 20.

In 105 sets, Edmond totaled 382 kills, 284 digs, 34 blocks, 21 assists and 20 service aces.

“Leah’s dedication to excellence has been synonymous with the Atlanta Vibe since our team’s inception,” Atlanta Vibe head coach Kayla Banwarth said. “We look forward to chasing a championship with her veteran presence.”

Aiko Jones Builds on Breakout Season

Opposite hitter Aiko Jones returns after a breakout 2026 campaign that saw her earn her first MLV All Star selection along with the league’s Most Inspirational Player Award.

Jones emerged as a major two way contributor for Atlanta, finishing sixth in the league in kills with 314 and seventh in total points with 362.

Across 99 sets, Jones recorded 314 kills, 215 digs, 37 blocks, 16 assists and 11 service aces.

“Aiko’s ascendancy from role player to All-Star dual threat is because of her limitless work ethic,” Banwarth said. “Her spirit will continue to be an invaluable piece of our roster.”

Zoe Jarvis Headlines New Addition

Libero Zoe Jarvis joins Atlanta with an extensive championship background.

Jarvis won a 2022 NCAA Championship at the University of Texas and earned AVCA All American honors twice during her collegiate career. She also brings U.S. National Team experience and back to back LOVB Championships from 2025 and 2026.

Last season with LOVB Austin, Jarvis totaled 101 digs and 29 assists while helping direct the team’s defense.

“Zoe is exactly the type of impact addition to take the Vibe to the next level,” Atlanta Vibe general manager Laura “Bird” Kuhn said. “She’s had success at every level of volleyball and is a tough and relentless competitor on the court.”

Taylor Smith and Khori Louis Return to the Core

The Vibe also retained outside hitter Taylor Smith and middle blocker Khori Louis, two players who have contributed key moments over the last two seasons.

Smith became a reliable offensive and defensive contributor in 2026, finishing with career marks of 214 digs, 144 kills, 14 blocks and four assists across 71 sets.

Louis, the 2025 Rising Star Award winner, made an immediate impact as a rookie with 236 kills, 78 digs and 58 blocks. After an injury shortened 2026 season, she returns as an important defensive presence in Atlanta’s middle system.

In 48 sets last season, Louis totaled 59 kills, 25 digs, 17 blocks and seven service aces.