Three Volleyball Dark Horses for 2023
In college volleyball, powerhouse teams tend to dominate the biggest stages. But every so often, a surprise team upsets the apple cart and sneaks into the last 16 and beyond, often becoming a power in their own right in the process.
A great example was the University of Washington in 2003. In 2001, the Huskies were the doormat of what was then the Pac-10 when Jim McLaughlin arrived in Seattle. Two years later, Washington was a Sweet 16 team, and two years after that, the Huskies stunned the volleyball world when they ripped through six matches without losing a set to claim their first national title. They haven’t missed postseason play since.
These three teams aren’t quite coming out of nowhere like Washington did 20 years ago, but they’re not exactly thought of as traditional powers either. But if any ended the year in Tampa at the Final Four, it wouldn’t be a huge shock.
Washington State Cougars: Rising Above the Shadow
Across the state in Pullman, Washington State’s been overshadowed by Washington ever since 20 years ago. But the Cougars have evolved into a solid team in their own right, regularly making the tournament even as they keep getting bounced in the second round. This year’s team features a quality libero in Karly Basham, an experienced setter in Argentina Ung and a top hitter in Pia Timmer.
All are either seniors or in year five, which is one reason why Washington State’s challenging itself with its schedule. Not only do the Cougars open in Louisville’s tournament, but they’ll do a Texas two-step by facing Baylor in Waco and Texas in Austin. Yes, Washington State’s going to face both national finalists from last season on their home courts. By November, nothing will scare the Cougars.
Baylor Bears: Poised for a Comeback
Long overshadowed by Texas, Baylor has become one of the quiet powers of the Big 12 under Ryan McGuyre. But since a 2019 Final Four run, the Bears have fallen in the Sweet 16 three years running.
This year’s team has a chance to change that. The Bears are young but talented, and they now have experience at setter with Averi Carlson, who ran last year’s team as a freshman. Baylor won’t sneak up on anyone in 2024, as there isn’t a senior on this roster, so this is their one chance to be a true surprise. Like Washington State, Baylor will test itself: in addition to two games in Austin, they’ll open with Wisconsin and Minnesota and face Ohio State and Washington State.
Houston Cougars: A Fresh Face in the Big 12
It’s strange to label a team that went 30-4 last season a dark horse. But that was Houston’s first trip to the tournament in 20 years, and the Cougars step up to the Big 12 this year. Houston’s the rare team that can play a 6-2, as it has two capable setters in Morgan Janda and Annie Cooke. Just as important, the Cougars return top hitter Abbie Jackson and an outstanding libero in Kate Georgiades.