I've been staring at rosters, watching film, and arguing with friends about this for weeks — and I think the 2026 college volleyball season is going to be one of the most competitive we've ever seen. Below are the 25 teams I believe every fan should be watching this year, why they made the list, and what I'm expecting from each one.
This is an editorial watchlist, with my reasons for following each program. For dates and matchups, see the separate 2026 schedules guide or the current rankings table.
How I Built This List
I leaned on the AVCA preseason poll, returning starters, transfer additions, and the strength of each team's non-conference schedule. I also factored in something a poll can't measure — momentum. A team that made a deep run last December usually carries that confidence into the next year, and I think you can feel that with this group.
The Top 25
Texas A&M
29-4Defending champions and the team to beat.
Kentucky
30-3Deep, balanced, and SEC-tested.
Nebraska
33-1I think they're peaking at the right time.
Pittsburgh
30-5ACC's gold standard right now.
Wisconsin
28-5Big Ten power with championship pedigree.
Texas
26-4Always dangerous in December.
Stanford
29-5Tradition meets a young, hungry roster.
Purdue
27-7Quietly one of the most consistent programs.
Louisville
26-7I believe they'll push Pitt all year.
Creighton
28-6Big East champs and a real Final Four threat.
SMU
27-6ACC newcomer making major noise.
Arizona State
28-4Big 12 sleeper I'd suggest watching.
Indiana
25-8Rising fast in the Big Ten.
Kansas
24-11Veteran group with tournament experience.
Minnesota
24-10Always dangerous in late November.
Miami (FL)
27-6ACC dark horse worth following.
Southern California
25-7Talent loaded — chemistry will decide it.
TCU
21-11Tough out for anyone in the Big 12.
North Carolina
22-9Defensively one of the best in the country.
Baylor
18-10I expect a bounce-back season.
Cal Poly
27-8Mid-major with serious upset potential.
Colorado
23-9Big 12 wildcard.
Iowa State
23-8Solid all-around roster.
Tennessee
20-8SEC team that nobody wants to draw.
BYU
22-9Big 12 newcomer with championship DNA.
Teams I Think Will Surprise Everyone
If I had to pick three sleepers, I'd go with SMU, Arizona State, and Indiana. SMU has the talent to win the ACC outright, Arizona State plays the kind of fast tempo that gives top teams real problems, and Indiana finally has the depth to match its coaching. I know rankings shift week to week — but those are the three I'm watching closely.
My Way-Too-Early Final Four Pick
You want my prediction? I'll give it. Final Four: Texas A&M, Nebraska, Kentucky, and Pittsburgh. Champion: I'm leaning Nebraska, but I think Kentucky is the most complete roster top-to-bottom. Ask me again in October.
How to Follow Along All Season
We update the AVCA rankings page as the polls move, and you can track every match on each team page. If you want a broader read on the season, I'd suggest pairing this list with our full 2026 schedule guide — between the two, you'll be ahead of 95% of fans.
Final Thoughts
We're walking into a season where the top 10 might be the deepest it's ever been, and the next 15 are good enough to crash the party. That's exactly what makes college volleyball so fun right now. Pick a team, follow them all the way through, and enjoy the ride. 🏐
Track Your Team All Season
Schedules, rosters, and rankings for every top-25 program.