The sun is shining, the sand is calling, and the best collegiate beach volleyball teams in the nation are ready to battle it out for the ultimate prize: the 2024 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship title. This year, the action unfolds on the picturesque shores of Gulf Shores, Alabama, from May 3rd to 5th.
The excitement is palpable as 17 teams, vying for national glory, take center court. This expanded field format, introduced in 2024, promises even more thrilling matchups and unexpected upsets.
Fans can expect to see familiar powerhouses like Southern California and UCLA, who have dominated the championship in recent years. However, don’t underestimate the hunger of rising stars like Long Beach State and Florida State, both looking to make a statement on the national stage.
The single-elimination tournament format ensures every match is high stakes. Each point, each dig, each set victory brings teams closer to the coveted championship trophy.
The opening day kicks off on May 3rd with a flurry of matches. Spectators can witness the strategic brilliance of Southern California as they face off against North Florida/Chattanooga, while LMU (CA) and Hawaii clash in a battle of offensive powerhouses.
As the weekend progresses, the competition intensifies, with winners advancing and losers seeing their dreams of a national title fade away. By Sunday, May 5th, only two teams will remain, battling it out on center court for the ultimate bragging rights.
Whether you’re a die-hard beach volleyball fan or simply seeking a weekend of sun, sand, and exhilarating competition, the 2024 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship is a must-see event. So grab your sunscreen, a beach chair, and prepare to be swept away by the athleticism, drama, and pure beach vibes that only this unique sport can deliver.
Daily Schedule
| FRIDAY, MAY 3 | TIME (CT) | SITE |
|---|---|---|
| Gates Open to Public | 7:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Chattanooga vs. North Florida | 8:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Washington vs. Florida St. | 9:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Arizona St. vs. Cal Poly | 10:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Chattanooga/North Florida vs. Southern California | 11:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Hawaii vs. LMU | 12:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| A&M-Corpus Christi vs. UCLA | 1:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Long Beach St. vs. California | 2:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Georgia St. vs. Stanford | 3:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| LSU vs. TCU | 4:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| SATURDAY, MAY 4 | TIME (CT) | SITE |
|---|---|---|
| Gates Open to Public | 8:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Quarterfinal #1 | 9:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Quarterfinal #2 | 10:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Quarterfinal #3 | 11:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Quarterfinal #4 | 12:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Semifinal #1 | 1:00 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| Semifinal #2 | 2:30 P.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| SUNDAY, MAY 5 | TIME (CT) | SITE |
|---|---|---|
| Gates Open to Public | 9:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
| 2024 National Championship | 10:00 A.M. | Gulf Beach Place | Gulf Shores, AL |
Tv Channels of NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships
When: Friday-Sunday, May 3-5, 2024
Where: Gulf Place, Gulf Shores, Ala.
TV channels:
ESPN U (first round),
ESPN2 (quarterfinals and semifinals), and
ESPN (championship game)
Prediction of NCAA Women’s Beach Volleyball Championships
Favorites:
- Southern California (USC): Two-time defending champions with a strong record and an undefeated top pair.
- UCLA: Ranked #2 this season, they’ve consistently challenged USC and have depth in their roster.
- Florida State: Ranked #1 entering the tournament, they boast a strong overall record and haven’t lost since their season opener.
- Stanford: A perennial contender with a well-rounded team and only five losses this season.
Dark Horses:
- Long Beach State: A rising program with a strong showing this season, they could surprise some teams.
- LMU (CA): A team with offensive firepower, they could pull off an upset against a top seed.
- Georgia State: Led by strong servers, they could disrupt the rhythm of their opponents.
Factors to Consider:
- Matchups: Who each team faces in the single-elimination bracket can significantly impact their chances.
- Momentum: Teams that win early and build confidence can be difficult to stop.
- Player health: Injuries to key players could derail a team’s title aspirations.
- Upsets: The expanded field format and single-elimination format create opportunities for unexpected teams to make a run.
Overall:
While USC and UCLA are the traditional powerhouses, this year’s championship is wide open. Florida State’s strong start and Stanford’s consistency make them threats. Don’t count out teams like Long Beach State, LMU (CA), or Georgia State who could pull off upsets.
Remember, these are just predictions, and the beauty of beach volleyball lies in its fast-paced nature and potential for comebacks. The best way to find out who wins is to tune in and witness the excitement unfold!
Preview of 2024 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship
The 2024 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship gets underway on May 3rd in Gulf Shores, Alabama, promising a weekend of scorching competition and thrilling beach volleyball action. This year’s expanded 17-team field, featuring both conference champions and at-large bids, ensures a diverse and unpredictable tournament.
Familiar Faces, New Challenges:
Powerhouses like USC (two-time defending champions) and UCLA remain the teams to beat. However, their dominance faces a challenge from a hungry pack of contenders. Florida State, boasting an undefeated season so far, enters the tournament ranked #1 and determined to dethrone the giants. Stanford, a perennial contender, brings experience and consistency to the table, looking to reclaim their championship glory.
Rising Stars and Upset Potential:
Keep an eye on rising programs like Long Beach State. With a strong showing this season and a talented roster, they could be a dark horse ready to upset established teams. LMU (CA), known for their offensive prowess, presents a threat with the potential to pull off a surprise victory over top seeds. Georgia State, with their powerful servers, can disrupt the rhythm of their opponents and create upsets.
Single-Elimination Drama:
The single-elimination format adds another layer of excitement. Every match carries immense weight, with each point and set victory propelling teams closer to the championship trophy. A single misstep could eliminate a title contender, making every match a must-watch spectacle.
Key Storylines:
- Can USC secure a historic three-peat championship?
- Will Florida State maintain their undefeated streak and claim the title?
- Can UCLA or Stanford dethrone the top contenders?
- Will a dark horse team create a major upset?
Don’t Miss the Action:
Whether you’re a beach volleyball fanatic or simply seeking a weekend of fun in the sun, the 2024 NCAA Beach Volleyball Championship promises an unforgettable experience. With thrilling competition, breathtaking athleticism, and the iconic beach setting, this event is a must-see for any sports enthusiast. So, grab your sunscreen, shades, and beach spirit, and get ready to be swept away by the excitement!
