Phoebe Awoleye signs with Italy's Igor Volley after teammate's injury

American middle blocker Phoebe Awoleye, 24, has joined Italian club Igor Gorgonzola Novara (Igor Volley) on a one‑year contract. The signing comes after Brazilian central Julia Gambatto Kudiess suffered an ACL tear, forcing a long recovery period. Awoleye, who split last season between the U.S. Major League's Atlanta Vibe and Portugal's SC Braga, said she is "excited to wear the Novara jersey and compete in one of the most prestigious leagues in the world." She added she aims to help the team and look forward to meeting fans. Club director Enrico Marchioni noted the injury created a need for a new central and expressed confidence that Awoleye’s athletic and technical abilities will make a significant contribution in the Italian championship.