Texas, Nebraska top the preseason Power 10 women’s volleyball rankings

Michella Chester has her first Power 10 of the 2024 women’s volleyball season before matches begins. So many factors went into these rankings, such as new coaches and players that we have yet to see mesh together. And don’t forget the freshmen. These are based on last season’s performances, returning players, transfers, etc. Sorry to keep you waiting, but let’s hop right into it.

1. Texas

There are two teams that you could argue to be No. 1 entering the season. But for me, the No. 1 spot belongs to Texas, and the Longhorns earned that right through and through. The Longhorns won the national title for the second straight year in 2023, dismantling the best teams in the country in Tampa and returning an absolutely stacked rotation, led by perhaps one of the best players and competitors in the country in Madi Skinner. Sure, they lost their starting middles, and I won’t downplay the loss of a player like Asjia O’Neal, but they have ballers on the bench waiting for their time. Also, how about Reagan Rutherford, Whitney Lauenstein and Averi Carlson transferring in?

MORE RANKINGS: The preseason AVCA Top 25 poll

2. Nebraska

Nebraska is in this same tier as the national runner-up with a young team returning almost the entire core led by Merritt Beason on the right side. Bergen Reilly will continue her impressive career. You also have one of the best defenses with Lexi Rodriguez and Laney Choboy, plus almost too many weapons offensively — especially with Taylor Landfair transferring in. Don’t forget about Leyla Blackwell, an accomplished middle from San Diego.

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— Nebraska Volleyball (@HuskerVB) May 17, 2024

3. Wisconsin

At No. 3, a lot can be discussed here between Wisconsin and Pitt, the two other teams from last year’s semifinals that both bring back a lot of star power. They feel interchangeable for the most part, but I am giving a slight nod to Wisconsin here, as the Badgers bring back AVCA National Player of the Year Sarah Franklin. The biggest loss was at setter, but I know they have some exciting and talented options to jump into the role.

4. Pitt

Pitt brings back an insane freshman duo of FOTY Olivia Babcock and Torrey Stafford. They can only improve and will continue to work with one of the best and most dynamic setters in the country in Rachel Fairbanks. Plus, Bre Kelley — who was sidelined with an injury last season — should be back. So, if anything, this team looks better and…