Set
The second touch, usually a finger release, that puts the ball in the hitter’s window for an attack, though bump-sets on bad passes are still in play. The set fixes tempo, location, and how much the block can read you. A clean set in-system is a foot above the net, off the net, in stride for the approach; a bad one ends up as a free ball the other way.
Example
Pass to 2.5, hands forward, 4 set off the left pin, ball sits where the outside wants it, kill, assist on the stat line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a set and a pass?
A pass is usually first contact to target; a set is the assist touch to a hitter, usually with hands. Bumps to target still count as passes even when they are not perfect.
Can anyone set the ball in volleyball?
Yes, but a libero who finger-sets in front of the 3 m line means your attacker cannot take a full swing above the net. Bump sets never carry that FIVB restriction.