The 2025 AVCA women's college volleyball rankings are out and Nebraska is sitting pretty at No. 1. Back on top for the first time since 2022. But don't get too comfortable, Huskers. Penn State is breathing down your neck.
NEBRASKA'S BIG RETURN
Nebraska snagged the top spot with 1,490 points and 40 first-place votes. Why? Fresh blood and a new leader. Dani Busboom Kelly takes the helm as head coach, bringing energy and expertise. Add in a crop of talented freshmen, and you’ve got a recipe for dominance.
The Huskers finished fourth last season, getting knocked out by Penn State in the semis. But this isn't a revenge tour; it's a takeover. You could feel it coming.
PENN STATE'S PUSH
The defending champs, Penn State, aren't going anywhere. Just missed that No. 1 spot with 1,459 points and 21 first-place votes. Their eighth national title last year? No joke. But they haven't been preseason No. 1 since the glory days of 2015.
The Nittany Lions are seasoned, with a history of holding that top spot for 42 straight polls from 2007 to 2010. They know what it takes, and they're coming for it again.
THE REST OF THE PACK
Pitt is sitting at No. 3, riding high with Olivia Babcock, the AVCA National Player of the Year. Louisville, the 2024 runner-up, lands at No. 4 despite losing some key players. Texas rounds out the top five, bolstered by transfers Torrey Stafford and Ramsey Gary.
THE PRESEASON CURSE?
Being preseason No. 1 isn't a guarantee of glory. Only 33% of those teams have taken the championship since 1982. But hey, history is meant to be rewritten.
Nebraska, you've got the target on your back. Penn State, keep that chip on your shoulder. This season? It’s gonna be different.
That'll do it.
Source: nebraskavolleyballschedule.us
