Roman Payne, the towering seven-foot middle blocker for Team USA, has been captivating audiences not only with his powerful play but also with his dynamic personality. He recently gained widespread attention for an energetic courtside dance at the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U19 World Championship, but this rising star is quickly proving that his contributions extend far beyond viral moments.
Currently, Payne is intensely focused on refining his blocking technique, executing powerful attacks, and consistently delivering high-impact plays when it matters most.
Recalling the viral dance moment during a match against Finland in Tashkent, Payne explained his spontaneous celebration: “We had just won the first set, there was new music, dancers on court, and I just felt good. We were in a whole new country, I played well, and honestly, I just had to let my dance moves out.”
Despite already earning the Best Blocker award at the 2024 NORCECA Continental Championship, Payne believes he’s only just beginning. “I love to hit the ball; I’m a great attacker,” he stated. “But I really need to improve my blocking. I’m seven feet tall for a reason. I have a strong arm, I hit hard, and my motto is ‘see ball, hit ball.’”
Payne is acutely aware of the fierce competition at the Tashkent championship. “This is the elite of the elite,” he remarked. “Every team here is the best from their region, qualifying for this tournament. There are no easy matches. We played five sets against Colombia on Saturday. We cannot underestimate anyone. I believe we need to elevate our passing, our defense, and collaborate more effectively as a team. Team culture comes first.”
His path to volleyball was not entirely by choice. “My parents actually made me play volleyball,” he confessed. “I initially had no desire, finding it uninteresting. But I eventually fell in love with it, continued to improve, and now I’m incredibly proud to be representing the USA U19 team in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.”
His older siblings, both collegiate athletes, served as significant inspirations. Witnessing their dedication motivated him to elevate his own game. “They inspired me to become who I am today,” he shared.
Looking to his collegiate future, Payne chose the University of Hawaii after considering numerous top programs. “I visited about seven or eight different places,” Payne explained. “Ultimately, Hawaii stood out. The fans, the atmosphere, the island, the beaches – I loved everything. The coaches too. It was an easy and natural decision, a perfect fit.”
Payne also shares a meaningful connection with Taylor Averill, a fellow middle blocker who excelled at Hawaii and played for Team USA. They met during training before the NORCECA Championship. “He’s a leader and a role model for me,” Payne commented. “He’s one of the best Olympic blockers. I try to learn from his game. He connected with me about Hawaii and confirmed it was a great choice. I know I can always reach out to him if I need anything; he’s a great guy.”
His imposing height often draws attention, even off the court. “The first question is usually, ‘Do you play basketball?’” he laughed. “It can be a bit annoying, but I know it’s something I’ll hear my whole life. I enjoy interacting with people, answering questions, and taking photos. It’s truly incredible to take pictures with fans from Uzbekistan after games here. I’m honored to be part of this.”
Payne’s long-term aspirations extend beyond college. “Naturally, I plan to play four, maybe five years at Hawaii,” he outlined. “After that, I want to play professionally. And my ultimate goal is to hopefully reach the Olympics one day.” He’s serious about this ambition, adding, “Hopefully the next Olympic cycle will be the right time for me to make it there.”
Being called up to the national team for the first time was a pivotal moment. “It really validated all my hard work,” he stated. “It shifted my mindset. This is the real deal; you have to be completely focused. It’s not just high school or club volleyball anymore; you’re representing your country and playing against other nations. I was genuinely shocked, but I felt I deserved it, and all my efforts paid off.”
Roman Payne is clearly forging a remarkable career path, with his most significant achievements still on the horizon.
Finley Blackwood 
Oliver Wrenwick