Photo by: John Fajardo
Alex Nikolov Announces Decision to Play Professionally
7/8/2022 1:45:00 PM | Men's Volleyball
The reigning AVCA National Player of the Year has signed a contract to play professionally with Lube Volleyball in Italy.
LONG BEACH, Calif. – After a breakout rookie campaign, Long Beach State freshman outside hitter Alex Nikolov has announced his decision to take the next step in his career as he has signed a contract with Lube Volleyball in Italy.
"To my Long Beach State Family: Thank you for opening up every door for success in the classroom, in the community, and on the court," said Nikolov in a statement. "You will forever have a place in my heart."
Following an outstanding season as a true freshman for the Beach, Nikolov spent the summer playing with the Bulgarian National Team.
At the Beach, Nikolov made a name for himself as the first-ever freshman to be named AVCA National Player of the Year, as he concluded his rookie season with a slew of awards and honors under his belt. An NVA/AVCA First Team All-American, Nikolov was named AVCA Freshman of the Year, while also garnering three Off the Block national awards.
The Sofia, Bulgaria native wrapped up the 2022 season with 0.58 aces per set to rank second in the nation, while registering 4.63 kills per set to lead the Big West and rank third in the NCAA. He posted a .386 attack percentage, which ranked second in the league and 16th in the country.
Nikolov's 59 aces last season ranked him second in the Long Beach State single-season record book, marking the most aces by a freshman in a single season.
"To my Long Beach State Family: Thank you for opening up every door for success in the classroom, in the community, and on the court," said Nikolov in a statement. "You will forever have a place in my heart."
Following an outstanding season as a true freshman for the Beach, Nikolov spent the summer playing with the Bulgarian National Team.
At the Beach, Nikolov made a name for himself as the first-ever freshman to be named AVCA National Player of the Year, as he concluded his rookie season with a slew of awards and honors under his belt. An NVA/AVCA First Team All-American, Nikolov was named AVCA Freshman of the Year, while also garnering three Off the Block national awards.
The Sofia, Bulgaria native wrapped up the 2022 season with 0.58 aces per set to rank second in the nation, while registering 4.63 kills per set to lead the Big West and rank third in the NCAA. He posted a .386 attack percentage, which ranked second in the league and 16th in the country.
Nikolov's 59 aces last season ranked him second in the Long Beach State single-season record book, marking the most aces by a freshman in a single season.
Players Mentioned
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