The Texas Longhorns secured a decisive 3-0 victory over the Penn State Nittany Lions on December 6, 2025, in the second round of the NCAA Division I Volleyball Tournament held at Gregory Gymnasium. This impressive win showcased the Longhorns’ strength and coordination on the court as they utilized a combination of fierce blocking and powerful hitting to dominate their opponent.
Texas head coach Jerritt Elliott observed from the sidelines as his squad executed a flawless game plan, culminating in a clean sweep. Notable performances included outside hitters Abby Vander Wal and Torrey Stafford, who were instrumental in both offense and defense, leaping high to block hits from Penn State’s middle blocker Jordan Hopp. The team’s libero, Emma Halter, added to the strong defensive play, rallying her teammates and keeping their spirits high throughout the match.
Setter Ella Swindle’s precise serving and set placements allowed the Longhorns to maintain a commanding presence at the net. With each point scored, the energy of the crowd swelled, reflecting the excitement and anticipation surrounding Texas Volleyball. As the match concluded, the players celebrated vigorously on the court, signaling not just a victory, but a step closer to their championship aspirations.
The Longhorns’ success sets the stage for the next round of the tournament, with the team now looking forward to facing off against Wisconsin in the Elite Eight. Meanwhile, the Texas A&M Aggies also celebrated their advancement after upset against Louisville, setting up an exciting regional final. As the NCAA volleyball season approaches its climax, both Texas teams are prepared to battle for a spot in the upcoming finals in Kansas City. With such strong performances, the future looks bright for Texas Volleyball, and fans can look forward to further thrilling matches ahead.