Columbus Fury Finalize Opening Night Roster, The Columbus Fury have confirmed their roster for the 2026 Major League Volleyball (MLV) season, making significant adjustments just days before the first game. In two key moves, the team bolstered its defense by signing veteran libero/defensive specialist Kamaile Hiapo and made room for Avery Tatum by giving up a draft pick. The selections complete a 15-player roster when the Fury open their season against the Atlanta Vibe on Thursday, Jan. 8.
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Hiapo completed his college career at BYU in 2023 and began his professional journey with the Atlanta Vibe in 2024, later playing for the San Diego Mojo last season.
The Gilbert, Arizona native appeared in 18 games and 29 sets last season, recording 36 digs and three assists. In his only start of the season – against Columbus on Jan. 11 – he had 16 digs, playing a key role in the Mojo’s first road victory of the season. Hiapo made his professional debut in the league’s first game, when the Vibe defeated the Supernovas in Omaha on Jan. 24, 2024. Selected 20th overall in the inaugural league draft in 2023, Hiapo played a key role in helping the Vibe secure the league’s best season, posting a 19-5 regular season record Champions title.
Meet the Newest Fury: Kamaile Hiapo
The signing of Kamaile Hiapo adds a layer of veteran talent to the Fury backcourt. The 20th overall pick in the league’s inaugural 2023 draft, Hiapo is one of MLV’s original players. His career-high speed and skill set bring distinctive strengths to Columbus:
- Proven Winner: Kamaile Hiapo began his professional career with the 2024 Atlanta Vibe, which posted a league-best 19-5 regular season record and a first-time MLV regular season championship.
- Potential for immediate impact: He showed his potential in a start against Columbus last season, recording a season-high 16 digs in a road win over the San Diego Mojo.
- Defensive pedigree: His collegiate careers at BYU and Arizona were marked by defensive excellence, leading the Cougars in digs (277) and earning honorable mention All-Pac-12 honors twice.
The Fury announced the release of draft pick Avery Tatum and will begin the season with 15 players on the roster. Click here to see the full roster for Opening Night.
Roster Composition and Analysis
By releasing draft pick Avry Tatum, the Fury finalized an opening night roster of 15 players. The group is likely a mix of returning core players, other offseason acquisitions, and new draft picks, now united under the guidance of head coach Ángel Pérez and newly hired assistant coach Noel Carpio. Hiapo’s role will be crucial in stabilizing serve-receive and digging out the opponent’s intense attacks, providing a foundation for the Fury’s offensive stars to operate from.
| Player | Position | Previous MLV Team | Key Collegiate Career | Professional Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kamaile Hiapo | Libero/Defensive Specialist | San Diego Mojo (2025) | BYU (led team in digs), Arizona | Played in first-ever MLV match; 16-dig performance vs. Columbus in 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions for Columbus Fury Finalize Opening Night Roster
Who did the Columbus Fury add to their roster right before the season?
The Fury signed veteran libero/defensive specialist Kamaile Hiapo, who played for the San Diego Mojo in 2025 and was on the inaugural Atlanta Vibe roster in 2024.
How many players are on the Opening Night roster?
When and where is the Fury’s first home game?
The home opener is Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. against the Omaha Supernovas at Nationwide Arena in Columbus.
What is the main challenge for an All-American entering MLV?
The main challenge is adapting to the increasing speed, power, and strategic complexity of professional play, which is a significant step up from even the highest levels of NCAA competition.
The Columbus Fury’s recent roster changes show they are ready to compete. By bringing in a veteran defender like Kamaile Hiapo, who has championship experience, the team has solidified a key position and solidified its identity. As the 2026 season begins, everyone will be watching to see how this roster, which combines veteran knowledge with exciting talent, performs on the court. The journey begins in Atlanta on January 8, with the goal of providing thrilling volleyball and returning to the field across the country throughout the season.