AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas women’s volleyball team, currently ranked No. 6 in the nation, is set to host two high-stakes volleyball matches this week at Gregory Gymnasium. The Longhorns will first face off against No. 19 Ohio State on Thursday, followed by a clash with No. 11 Washington State on Friday.
Texas vs Ohio State Matchup
Texas is closing out a five-match homestand with these upcoming games. Last season, Texas had a 3-0 record against Ohio State, including a win in the NCAA Regional Final.
The Longhorns lead the all-time series with Ohio State 11-1. They have only played Washington State once, securing a win back in 1992.
How to watch Texas volleyball?
You can watch Texas volleyball games this week on the ESPN Player at WatchESPN, as well as on the Longhorns Network. Both games are significant for the Longhorns, who are 4-2 overall this season and have won two straight since losing to then-No. 2 Standford on Sept. 3.
- Watch No. 6 Texas vs No. 19 Ohio State game live on WatchESPN: Watch and Live Stats
- Watch No. 6 Texas vs No. 11 Washington State game live on WatchESPN: Watch and Live Stats
Read more: No. 4 Nebraska triumph over No. 5 Stanford in four sets: Women’s college volleyball
Reigning National Champions
Texas entered the 2023 season as the reigning National Champions, having defeated Louisville in straight sets to win the 2022 national title. They return five starters from that championship team, including first-team All-Big 12 players Asjia O’Neal, Molly Phillips, and Madisen Skinner.
Rankings and Consistent Success
Starting the season as the No. 1 ranked team in the AVCA Preseason Coaches’ Poll, Texas has been a model of consistency. They have ended each of the last 17 seasons ranked in the top 10 and have a 1-1 record against ranked opponents this season.
Home Court Advantage
The Longhorns have been nearly invincible at home, boasting a 199-13 record in home matches over the last 14 seasons. Their only home Big 12 loss since 2010 came against Oklahoma in 2014.
Attendance and Efficiency
Texas ranked fifth nationally in attendance last season, with an average of 4,364 fans. They led the country with a .336 hitting percentage, spearheaded by Asjia O’Neal, who ranked second nationally with a .443 hitting percentage.
Preseason Awards and Returning All-Americans
Madisen Skinner was named the Preseason Big 12 Player of the Year, and Texas landed six players on the AVCA All-American teams last season, three of whom return for the 2023 season.
Road Warriors and Coaching Milestones
Texas has won 31 of their last 34 road matches. Head coach Jerritt Elliott recently joined the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame, further solidifying his legacy as one of the sport’s greats.
For more information, follow the Longhorns on social media or visit the University of Texas Athletics website.
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