The Texas Longhorns volleyball team is set to host the USC Trojans in their home opener on Wednesday, a crucial nonconference match for both teams. Texas has faced a rocky start to the 2026 season, suffering a loss to Arizona State in their opening match and being swept by the top-ranked Nebraska in Las Vegas. Adding to their challenges, the Longhorns lost starting outside hitter Abby Vander Wal to a season-ending knee injury, further complicating their efforts to regain momentum.
Currently, Texas holds a 2-2 record and has dropped from No. 2 to No. 9 in the latest American Volleyball Coaches Association poll. As they prepare to take on No. 15 USC, the Longhorns are eager to turn their fortunes around. Historically, Texas has had the upper hand in their matchups against the Trojans, leading the all-time series 6-5, including a 3-2 record at Gregory Gym. The Longhorns have won the last four encounters, with their most recent victory being a decisive 3-0 sweep in the second round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament.
Head coach Jerritt Elliott, who has a notable history with USC, is looking to leverage his experience to guide his team. Elliott served as the interim head coach for the Trojans from 1999 to 2000, where he achieved significant success, leading the team to the national semifinals and earning accolades such as the Pac-10 Coach of the Year in both seasons. His familiarity with USC adds an intriguing layer to this matchup, as he seeks to instill confidence in his players amidst their current struggles.
The upcoming match is not just another game; it represents an opportunity for Texas to showcase their resilience and adaptability. The Longhorns will need to step up in Vander Wal's absence and find new ways to generate offense and solidify their defense against a capable USC squad that comes into the match with a 1-1 record. The Trojans are known for their competitive spirit and have historically been a formidable opponent, making this encounter critical for both teams as they look to build momentum early in the season.
Fans can tune in to watch the action live at 8 p.m. on ESPN2, with the match taking place at Gregory Gymnasium in Austin. As the Longhorns aim to bounce back from their recent setbacks, this match against USC could be a pivotal moment in their quest for success this season. Stay tuned for live updates and scores as the teams battle it out on the court.
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