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Longhorns Volleyball Reclaim No. 1 Ranking

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/04/01/longhorns-volleyball-reclaim-no-1-ranking.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, April 1st 2026 at 8:44 GMT by KXAN
      Locale: UNITED STATES

AUSTIN, Texas - The University of Texas Longhorns volleyball team has reclaimed its place atop the collegiate volleyball world, earning the No. 1 ranking in the nation following a decisive victory over Stanford and crucial losses by former leaders Nebraska and Penn State. The AVCA poll, released Monday morning, confirms what Longhorn fans have been sensing all season: this is a team destined for greatness. With a record of 13-1 overall and 7-1 in Big 12 play, Texas isn't just ranked number one - they look like number one.

This return to the pinnacle of collegiate volleyball is particularly significant for the program, marking their first No. 1 ranking since 2018. For head coach Jerritt Elliott, and the dedicated fanbase, it's a moment of validation and a thrilling sign of things to come. "It's really exciting," Elliott stated. "It's a testament to what we've done so far. Our players have really worked hard. We still have a lot of volleyball left, but it's a great feeling to be recognized for what we've accomplished." Elliott's statement underscores the team's grounded approach; the ranking is celebrated, but not a destination. It's fuel for continued effort.

But how did the Longhorns reach this point? It's not simply luck. This isn't a sudden surge; it's the culmination of strategic recruitment, player development, and a winning culture that Elliott has fostered over years. The core of this team isn't entirely new - they built upon the foundation of last year's squad which reached the regional final, gaining valuable experience and a hunger for more. That regional final loss clearly stung, and the returning players appear determined to not repeat that outcome.

Offensively, the Longhorns are a force to be reckoned with. Sophomore outside hitter Madyson Middleton is leading the charge, averaging an impressive 3.81 kills per set. Her consistent performance and ability to terminate rallies are crucial to Texas's success. Right behind her is junior Logan Eggerson, contributing 3.48 kills per set, providing a dynamic one-two punch that opposing defenses struggle to contain. This offensive firepower isn't just about power; it's about smart shot selection, court awareness, and a strong connection with setter Ella Swindle, who consistently delivers pinpoint assists.

However, a potent offense is only half the battle. The Longhorns' defense is equally formidable, anchored by senior libero Morgan Chisham. Her exceptional court coverage and averaging 4.65 digs per set consistently keep rallies alive and frustrate opposing hitters. Chisham's leadership on the back row is invaluable, directing traffic and providing crucial stability. Complementing Chisham's digging prowess is junior Brionna Behnen, a defensive specialist who is averaging 1.34 blocks per set. Behnen's presence at the net provides a vital first line of defense, disrupting attacks and forcing errors.

The upcoming schedule presents both opportunities and challenges. Next week, Texas will host Oklahoma and Baylor. While these are Big 12 opponents and will undoubtedly be competitive matches, they also offer a chance for the Longhorns to solidify their position at the top and build momentum heading into the more challenging portion of their schedule. The real tests will come later in the season with matchups against other conference powerhouses like Kansas and Texas Tech, and crucial non-conference contests against teams vying for NCAA tournament berths.

Experts are already beginning to discuss Texas as a national championship contender. The program has a rich history, with multiple national titles, and this year's team possesses the talent, coaching, and determination to add another banner to the Erwin Center. But with the target firmly on their backs, the Longhorns know they must maintain their focus and continue to improve with each match. The journey to a championship is long and arduous, but with the No. 1 ranking and a committed team, the Texas Longhorns are well-positioned to make a serious run. The program's strong recruiting class slated to join next year further suggests that this isn't a flash in the pan - the Longhorns are building a sustainable dynasty.