Top Predictions and Players to Watch in 2025 NCAA Women’s Volleyball
The 2025 NCAA Women’s College Volleyball Tournament is shaping up to be a wild ride. With the bracket set and 64 teams in the mix, there’s a buzz in the air about who’ll come out on top.
The field’s got its usual giants and a few hungry underdogs, so it’s anyone’s guess which matches will get truly wild. Nebraska’s undefeated run under first-year coach Dani Busboom Kelly grabbed them the No. 1 overall seed, but Texas, Kentucky, and Pittsburgh aren’t exactly going to roll over. Our experts have plenty to say about teams to watch, sleepers, must-see players, and which squads could shake things up.
Teams to Go Far
Most folks seem to agree: Nebraska is the team to beat. The Cornhuskers are sitting at a spotless 30-0 and have only dropped seven sets all year.
They look like a lock for Kansas City and maybe even a sixth national title. Texas, Kentucky, and Pittsburgh are right there too, each with a real shot at a deep run.
Nebraska’s Dominance
Nebraska’s season has been wild. Sixty straight home wins, a perfect record—what more can you ask for?
Their attack and defense are both rock solid. Charlotte Gibson and Emily Ehman both figure Nebraska’s got what it takes to make it all the way.
Other Top Contenders
Texas, Kentucky, and Pittsburgh are all dangerous. Texas has grit and talent but could get tested by Indiana, Wisconsin, and Stanford.
Kentucky, riding a 22-match win streak, looks scary good. Pittsburgh’s got a bit to prove after their past semifinal stumbles, but their win over SMU this year turned some heads.
Sleeper Picks
Don’t sleep on the lower seeds. North Carolina, Texas A&M, Purdue, and USC could all crash the party.
North Carolina
North Carolina isn’t seeded but has already knocked off two ranked teams. They’ve also pushed two others to five sets.
If anyone’s going to pull an early upset, it might be them.
Texas A&M
Texas A&M has some real weapons. Logan Lednicky and Ifenna Cos-Okpalla lead a lineup that could give anyone trouble.
Purdue
Purdue, sitting as a No. 3 seed, could surprise a lot of people. Their Big Ten run and a win over SMU earlier this year show they’re ready.
USC
USC’s regular season was impressive. Only Nebraska managed to beat them since mid-October.
Wins over Creighton and Wisconsin prove they’re not just hype.
Must-See Players
This tournament’s packed with stars. Some players just have that spark—you can’t look away.
Olivia Babcock
Pitt’s Olivia Babcock? She’s electric. Touches 10’9, takes over matches, and is the reigning National Player of the Year.
She’s got a good shot to do it again.
Harper Murray
Nebraska’s Harper Murray is another can’t-miss. Her footwork and defense are next-level.
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There’s talk she’ll be Player of the Year before long.
Colby Neal
Arizona State’s Colby Neal is a force in the middle. She’s among the best in Division I for blocks per set.
Her defense is a game-changer for the Sun Devils.
Brooklyn DeLeye and Eva Hudson
Kentucky’s Brooklyn DeLeye and Eva Hudson on the left side? That’s a nightmare for opponents. Together, they rack up over nine kills per set.
Upset Watch
Upsets always lurk around the corner in this tournament. Even the big names like Stanford, Wisconsin, and Texas have shown cracks.
Stanford and Wisconsin
Stanford and Wisconsin are peaking at the right time. They could shake up the Texas Regional.
Both teams are dangerous when it counts.
Texas
Texas has had some shaky moments. Losses to Texas A&M and Kentucky show they’re beatable if you catch them off guard.
Bold Predictions
The experts are tossing out some bold calls this year. There’s a sense that this tournament could be one for the ages.
Nebraska’s Dominance
Emily Ehman thinks Nebraska won’t drop a set until the title match. That’s a tall order, but they’ve looked untouchable so far.
Record Attendance
Charlie Creme predicts Kansas City will pack the house for the final four. Volleyball’s popularity is soaring, and this year’s crowd might set records.
Eastern Dominance
Sam Gore thinks the national champion will come from east of the Mississippi River. It’s a bold call, honestly, but teams like Nebraska, Kentucky, and Pittsburgh make a strong case.
If you want more insights and predictions for the 2025 NCAA Women’s College Volleyball Tournament, check out the full article on ESPN.