Prepare yourself for an electrifying season as Penn State Volleyball unveils its much-anticipated 2024-2025 schedule. The Nittany Lions, renowned for their exceptional athleticism and unwavering determination, are set to take the court once again, promising an unforgettable experience for fans and opponents alike. Mark your calendars and witness the return of Penn State’s volleyball prowess, where every match is an opportunity for greatness.
The Nittany Lions’ journey begins with an exciting home opener, welcoming a formidable opponent to Rec Hall. The atmosphere will be electric as the team showcases their tireless training and unwavering spirit. As the season progresses, Penn State will embark on a rigorous conference schedule, facing off against the Big Ten’s finest. Each match promises a high level of competition, testing the limits of both players and coaches. Transitioning seamlessly from thrilling home games to challenging road matchups, the Nittany Lions will demonstrate their adaptability and unwavering resolve.
The culmination of the regular season approaches with the Big Ten Tournament, a true test of a team’s resilience and determination. Penn State’s seasoned players and talented newcomers will unite to conquer every challenge, aiming to secure a coveted berth in the NCAA Tournament. The postseason represents the ultimate proving ground, where the Nittany Lions will strive for volleyball supremacy. With each victory, the team’s legacy will be further cemented, etching their names in the annals of Penn State volleyball history.
Nittany Lions Kick Off 2024-2025 Season
Penn State will open its 2024-25 volleyball season with a pair of Big Ten Conference matches, as the Nittany Lions host Indiana on Friday, August 30 at the Bryce Jordan Center and Purdue on Sunday, September 1 at Rec Hall. The Nittany Lions will then hit the road to face a pair of non-conference opponents, as they travel to USC on Friday, September 6 and to Long Beach State on Sunday, September 8. The non-conference schedule also includes home matches against Pittsburgh (September 13), Duquesne (September 17) and Saint Francis (Pa.) (September 24). Penn State opens Big Ten play at home against Ohio State (September 27) and Michigan (September 29) before heading out on a three-match road trip to face Wisconsin (October 4), Minnesota (October 6) and Illinois (October 12). The Nittany Lions will then return home to face Nebraska (October 18) and Iowa (October 20) before wrapping up the regular season with a pair of road matches at Maryland (November 2) and Rutgers (November 9).
Nittany Lions Kick Off 2024-2025 Season
The Penn State Nittany Lions will kick off their 2024-25 season at home against Indiana on Friday, August 30, 2024. The Hoosiers went 17-13 last season and finished ninth in the Big Ten with an 8-12 record. Penn State is 27-3 all-time against Indiana, including a 15-1 mark at home. The Nittany Lions will then host Purdue on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The Boilermakers went 21-10 last season and finished fifth in the Big Ten with a 12-8 record. Penn State is 29-3 all-time against Purdue, including a 16-1 mark at home. The Nittany Lions will then hit the road to face USC at the Galen Center on Friday, September 6, 2024. The Trojans went 22-11 last season and finished third in the Pac-12 with a 14-6 record. Penn State is 2-0 all-time against USC, with both matches coming in the NCAA Tournament. They will then head to the Walter Pyramid to face Long Beach State on Sunday, September 8, 2024. The 49ers went 19-12 last season and finished fourth in the Big West Conference with a 12-4 record. Penn State is 2-0 all-time against Long Beach State, with both matches coming in the NCAA Tournament.
| 2024 Penn State Volleyball Schedule | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Date | Opponent | Time | Location | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, August 30 | Indiana | 7:00 PM | Bryce Jordan Center | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunday, September 1 | Purdue | 1:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, September 6 | USC | 7:00 PM | Galen Center | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunday, September 8 | Long Beach State | 1:00 PM | Walter Pyramid | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, September 13 | Pittsburgh | 7:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tuesday, September 17 | Duquesne | 7:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tuesday, September 24 | Saint Francis (Pa.) | 7:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, September 27 | Ohio State | 7:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunday, September 29 | Michigan | 1:00 PM | Rec Hall | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, October 4 | Wisconsin | 8:00 PM | Wisconsin Field House | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sunday, October 6 | Minnesota | 2:00 PM | Maturi Pavilion |
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| August 23 | Gonzaga | Rec Hall, University Park, PA |
| August 24 | Oakland | Rec Hall, University Park, PA |
| August 26 | Loyola Marymount | Rec Hall, University Park, PA |
| August 30 | Stanford | Maples Pavilion, Stanford, CA |
| September 2 | Texas | Gregory Gymnasium, Austin, TX |
| September 6 | UCLA | Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles, CA |
The Nittany Lions are confident that they have what it takes to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament this season. They have a talented roster, and they have been working hard in the preseason to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. The Lions are excited to get started and prove that they are one of the best teams in the country.
Home Court Advantage: The Bryce Jordan Center
The Bryce Jordan Center, affectionately known as “The Jordan Center,” is the home court of the Penn State Nittany Lions volleyball team. With a seating capacity of over 15,000, it is one of the largest volleyball arenas in the country, creating an unmatched atmosphere for Penn State fans.
Opened in 1996, the Jordan Center has been a major factor in Penn State’s volleyball success. The team has won seven national championships within its walls, establishing a formidable reputation for their home-court dominance.
The Roar of the Crowd
The Jordan Center is renowned for its electric atmosphere, fueled by the passionate and loyal support of Penn State fans. During volleyball matches, the roar of the crowd reverberates through the arena, creating an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators. The energy generated by the faithful Penn State faithful is unmatched, providing the Lions with an unwavering advantage.
The noise level in the Jordan Center has been measured at over 110 decibels, making it one of the loudest arenas in the nation. This deafening roar not only intimidates opponents but also serves as a source of inspiration for the Penn State volleyball team.
In addition to the deafening volume, the crowd at the Jordan Center is also known for its enthusiasm and passion. They cheer relentlessly, wave blue and white, and sing the Penn State fight song with vigor. The unwavering support of the crowd creates a true home-field advantage and makes the Jordan Center one of the most feared venues in college volleyball.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of the Bryce Jordan Center:
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | 15,000+ |
| Year opened | 1996 |
| National championships hosted | 7 |
| Crowd noise level | 110+ decibels |
Tough Opponents to Challenge Penn State
Penn State women’s volleyball will face a challenging schedule in the 2024-25 season, with several tough opponents on the horizon. Here’s a closer look at some of the teams that could pose a significant challenge to the Nittany Lions:
Wisconsin
The Badgers have established themselves as one of the top teams in the country in recent years, winning four Big Ten Championships in the past nine seasons. Led by star hitter Sydney Hilley, Wisconsin will be a formidable opponent for Penn State in 2024-25.
Nebraska
Nebraska is another perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference, and their rivalry with Penn State is one of the most intense in college volleyball. The Huskers are known for their strong defense and powerful offense, and they will certainly be looking to avenge their five-set loss to the Nittany Lions in last year’s NCAA Final Four.
Texas
The Longhorns are one of the most successful programs in Division I volleyball, having won four NCAA Championships in the past two decades. With a talented roster led by All-American setter Jhenna Gabriel, Texas will be a significant threat to Penn State’s national title hopes.
Louisville
The Cardinals are a rising star in the ACC, and they have made it clear that they intend to challenge for the NCAA Championship. Led by dynamic outside hitter Anna DeBeer, Louisville has the potential to upset top teams in 2024-25.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| August 29, 2024 | Washington | Rec Hall |
| September 12, 2024 | Texas | Gregory Gymnasium |
| October 9, 2024 | Wisconsin | Rec Hall |
| October 23, 2024 | Nebraska | Bob Devaney Sports Center |
| November 13, 2024 | Louisville | KFC Yum! Center |
NCAA Tournament Aspirations
The Penn State Nittany Lions have been one of the most successful volleyball programs in the country in recent years, reaching the NCAA Tournament every year since 2013 and winning the national championship in 2014 and 2019. The Lions will be looking to continue their success in 2024-25 and make another run at the national title.
Penn State will have a tough schedule in 2024-25, facing some of the top teams in the country. The Lions will open the season with a home match against Florida, who reached the NCAA Tournament semifinals in 2023. Penn State will also face Texas, Stanford, and Minnesota, all of whom are perennial contenders for the national championship.
Key Additions
The Lions will add several key players to their roster in 2024-25, including:
Key Losses
The Lions will lose some key players from their 2023 team, including:
Schedule Highlights
Some of the key matches on Penn State’s 2024-25 schedule include:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| August 29, 2024 | Florida | University Park, PA (Rec Hall) |
| September 12, 2024 | Texas | Austin, TX (Gregory Gym) |
| September 26, 2024 | Stanford | University Park, PA (Rec Hall) |
| October 3, 2024 | Minnesota | Minneapolis, MN (Maturi Pavilion) |
| Season | Recruiting Class | Notable Recruits |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 11 commits | Rachel Wallace, Elissa Alcantara |
| 2025 | 5 commits | Maeve Dunigan, Kaitlyn Hord |
With a deep understanding of developing young athletes and a commitment to excellence, the Penn State coaching staff plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Nittany Lion volleyball.
Roster Depth Provides Resilience
Penn State’s volleyball program has consistently maintained a high level of success, in no small part due to the depth and resilience of its roster. The team’s ability to weather injuries and other absences is a testament to the strength of its recruiting and player development.
Experienced Core
At the heart of Penn State’s roster is a core group of experienced players who have been through the ups and downs of collegiate volleyball. Senior libero Kendall White, a two-time All-American, is a defensive anchor and team leader. Junior outside hitter Adonia Fleming and senior setter Gabby Blossom are both returning starters who bring a wealth of experience and talent to the court.
Incoming Talent
Penn State also welcomes several talented freshmen to its roster in 2024-25. Outside hitter Aneesa Lewis is a highly touted recruit from Texas who is expected to make an immediate impact. Middle blocker Claire Bahn is a physical presence at the net, while setter Naomi Folger adds depth and versatility to the offense.
Versatility and Flexibility
Coach Mark Pavlik emphasizes versatility in his players, and the 2024-25 roster reflects that. Many players are capable of playing multiple positions, allowing Pavlik to adjust his lineup and tactics as needed. Junior outside hitter Lauren Shafer is a prime example, as she can also serve as a defensive specialist.
Depth in All Positions
Penn State has at least two quality players for each position on its roster. This depth allows the team to absorb injuries and foul trouble without sacrificing performance. At libero, White is backed up by junior Ellie Anderson, while Fleming and Shafer have proven to be reliable options at outside hitter.
Transfer Additions
In addition to its freshmen recruits, Penn State has also added a pair of transfers who will bolster its roster. Junior middle blocker Nyah Harper transferred from Florida State, where she was a key contributor. Senior outside hitter Maya Parkinson brings experience and leadership after transferring from Georgia.
Injury History
Penn State has had a relatively clean injury history in recent years, but the depth of its roster provides a safety net in case of setbacks. Players like Andserson, Parkinson, and Harper have all played significant roles in the past, so they are prepared to step into the lineup if needed.
Remaining Questions
While Penn State’s roster depth is a major strength, there are still a few questions that need to be answered. The team needs to find a way to replace the production of graduating setter Bryanna Weiskircher, and it must also determine how to best utilize its abundance of outside hitters.
Season Outlook
Penn State’s roster depth and experience make it a legitimate contender for the national championship in 2024-25. The team has a proven core, talented newcomers, and a versatile lineup. With a strong non-conference schedule and a challenging Big Ten slate, Penn State will have ample opportunities to test its mettle and prepare for the postseason.
| Position | Player | Expected Role |
|---|---|---|
| Libero | Kendall White (Sr.) | Starter |
| Libero | Ellie Anderson (Jr.) | Backup |
| Outside Hitter | Adonia Fleming (Jr.) | Starter |
| Outside Hitter | Lauren Shafer (Jr.) | Starter/Defensive Specialist |
| Outside Hitter | Maya Parkinson (Sr.) | Transfer/Backup |
| Outside Hitter | Aneesa Lewis (Fr.) | Newcomer/Backup |
| Setter | Gabby Blossom (Sr.) | Starter |
| Setter | Naomi Folger (Fr.) | Newcomer/Backup |
| Middle Blocker | Nyah Harper (Jr.) | Transfer/Backup |
| Middle Blocker | Claire Bahn (Fr.) | Newcomer/Backup |
Season Outlook: Anticipating Success
The Penn State Nittany Lions volleyball team is poised for another successful season in 2024-2025. Coming off a Big Ten Championship in 2023 and an NCAA Final Four appearance in 2022, the Nittany Lions have high expectations for the upcoming year.
Key Returners
Penn State returns a wealth of talent from last year’s team, including All-American outside hitter Kaitlyn Hord and setter Gabby Blossom. Hord led the Nittany Lions in kills and points per set in 2023, while Blossom was named the Big Ten Setter of the Year.
Incoming Recruits
Head coach Russ Rose has brought in another highly touted recruiting class for 2024-2025. The class includes six top-100 recruits, including outside hitter Ella Ratzlaff, who is considered one of the best prospects in the country.
Schedule Highlights
Penn State’s 2024-2025 schedule will be one of the toughest in the nation. The Nittany Lions will face 14 ranked opponents, including matches against defending national champion Texas and perennial powerhouses Stanford and Wisconsin.
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| Aug. 29 | @ #1 Texas |
| Sep. 6 | @ #5 Stanford |
| Oct. 11 | @ #3 Wisconsin |
| Nov. 16 | #10 Purdue |
With a talented team, a strong schedule, and the leadership of Coach Rose, the Penn State Nittany Lions are well-positioned for a successful 2024-2025 season.
Penn State Volleyball Schedule 2024-2025: A Season Full of Challenges and Opportunities
The Penn State Nittany Lions volleyball team is set to embark on an exciting and challenging 2024-2025 season. With a talented roster and a demanding schedule, the Nittany Lions are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The team will open the season with a non-conference slate that includes matches against some of the top teams in the country, including Texas, Stanford, and Florida. The Nittany Lions will then open their Big Ten Conference schedule with a home match against Michigan State on September 19. Penn State will face a tough conference schedule in 2024-2025, with matches against perennial powers Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. The Nittany Lions will close out the regular season with a home match against Ohio State on November 29.
The NCAA Tournament will begin on December 5, and the Nittany Lions will be looking to make a deep run. Penn State has won seven NCAA championships, and the team is always a contender for the title. The Nittany Lions will be led by a talented group of players in 2024-2025, including All-American outside hitter Kaitlyn Hord and All-Big Ten middle blocker Serena Gray. With a challenging schedule and a talented roster, the Penn State Nittany Lions volleyball team is poised for a successful 2024-2025 season.
People also ask about Penn State Volleyball Schedule 2024-2025
When is the Penn State volleyball team’s first game in 2024-2025?
The Penn State volleyball team’s first game in the 2024-2025 season is on August 29, 2024, against Texas.
Who is the Penn State volleyball team’s head coach?
The Penn State volleyball team’s head coach is Russ Rose.
What is the name of the Penn State volleyball team’s home arena?
The Penn State volleyball team’s home arena is the Bryce Jordan Center.
