Twenty in their 20s 2026: Kristen Nuss Cruz and Taryn Brasher

Kristen Nuss Cruz, 29

Professional beach volleyball player

Playing on a sandy court in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower was a career highlight for 5’6″ New Orleans native Kristen Nuss Cruz and her teammate Taryn Brasher, who made it to the Olympic stage in 2024 after standout athletic careers at LSU. The pair hasn’t slowed down, now playing professionally and ranked #1 in the world.

What’s your favorite part of being a professional athlete?

All the places this sport has taken me. I get to travel the world with my best friend and call the sport I love my job—honestly, what more could I ask for?

What makes a great partnership in beach volleyball?

Chemistry on the court is everything. Communication and trust are the two most important elements in making that chemistry work. Being able to communicate clearly with your partner in high-pressure moments, and trusting that they genuinely want the best for you, is something special and not always easy to find in beach pairs.

How do you motivate yourself?

I’m constantly motivated by the idea of inspiring others. As an undersized player, I didn’t have many people in the sport who looked like me or shared a similar path, so being that example for someone else has always driven me.

Taryn Brasher, 29

Professional beach volleyball player

This 6’5″ South Dakota native traded cold winters for South Louisiana sun when she made the move from indoor volleyball to beach volleyball at LSU. Recently married, she combined her maiden name, Kloth, with Nuss’s to create their team brand, TKN. Together, they also formed the 656 Foundation, a nonprofit that puts on the annual event “Santa in the Sand” to benefit Louisiana families in need.

What’s your favorite part of being a professional athlete?

One of the coolest parts is the positive impact you are having on people. There are kids and people watching your example, which makes you hold an even higher standard.

Why was it important to you to launch a nonprofit?

The foundation has always been a big goal and dream of mine. We were given so much support from the community on our journey, and we still receive so much support, so our event is just a small way for us to give back. Last year, we raised $54,000 for families and supported 32 children in the area with gifts.

How do you define success?

Am I being the very best version of myself? Am I enjoying the process, not just the result? If I can say yes to both of those, I would consider that great success.