University Southern California Trojans
Photo by: John McGillen
Get to Know: Riley Malloy
August 12, 2026 | Women's Volleyball
The USC freshman outside hitter is settling into her home away from home
The USC women's volleyball team welcomes seven newcomers to the floor this fall. Get to know the six freshmen and transfer setter in a series of get-to-know features here on USCTrojans.com. Freshman outside hitter Riley Malloy (Austin, Texas/Austin HS) is enjoying sushi in Southern California and embracing all the new opportunities this year will bring.
Get to know Riley Malloy!
When did you get to USC and so far, what has surprised you the most about USC?
I've been here since last spring, and I would say definitely the culture of the program and the way the coaches and players interact with each other. This team feels like a family, everybody really loves each other and respects each other.
What made you choose USC?
Even though I'm from Texas, two of my siblings went to USC, and my family basically grew up in California. My parents both grew up in California and although it wasn't a huge influence, having that background, it definitely made USC feel more like home. It just kind of has the whole package. USC has a really good balance of academics, great sports programs, and social life.
When did you realize you wanted to play volleyball at the college level?
I realized I wanted to pursue it when I knew it was possible. Around eighth grade, I started receiving letters from colleges. Even though I played club lacrosse, basketball, and soccer for a while, volleyball was the sport I was best at. And receiving those letters was when I realized I could play at that level and I began to want it even more.
How would your teammates describe you and your playing style?
They would describe me as competitive and a team player.
What do you enjoy doing outside of volleyball?
I really like hanging out with my friends, I love ice cream, and I'm always trying new foods and restaurants. My favorite food right now is sushi, I love sushi. Bear Flag Fish Co. in Laguna is so good.
What has been your favorite moment with the team so far?
We went to Palm Springs on a mini team retreat, it was our first trip as a team this year. That was really enjoyable.
If you had control of the music on a road trip or in the locker room, what would you play?
I would play Dancing On My Own by Robyn. I also love Noah Khan and Olivia Dean.
What's on your bucket list?
In the entire world, I really want to travel through Europe! But in Los Angeles specifically, I want to go to Malibu and try Nobu.
What's your comfort food?
Butter noodles with chicken.
What's the best advice you've ever received so far?
Always be yourself.
Who on the team do you look up to the most?
I really look up to Leah Ford and Adonia Faumuina. They're both super selfless and probably the best leaders I've encountered throughout all my years of playing.
Who on the team makes you laugh the most?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I would want to time travel to both the past and the future. I'd love to go back to one of my high school years and experience it again for a day.
Who is most likely to forget something before practice?
Maybe like Milly McGee or honestly me. Or Layli Ostovar, I feel like given our personalities, we can all be forgetful.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm excited for the season, the travel and getting even closer with the team. I'm also looking forward to experiencing the Big Ten season.
What goals do you have for yourself?
I want to get a lot better, experience new things, and stay open-minded.
Players Mentioned
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/ Women's Volleyball
MB
/ Women's Volleyball
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/ Women's Volleyball
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/ Women's Volleyball
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L/DS
/ Women's VolleyballMonday, August 03
Monday, August 03
Thursday, December 11
Friday, December 05
