The No. 2 Texas Longhorns volleyball team has officially closed out its nonconference schedule with a perfect 8-0 record, achieving their undefeated season goal after a commanding 3-0 sweep over the No. 21 Baylor Bears on September 19, 2025. The dominant performance at Gregory Gymnasium, with set scores of 25-18, 25-12, and 25-13, showcased the Longhorns’ prowess and set a formidable tone as they prepare for the rigorous Southeastern Conference (SEC) campaign.
Texas Volleyball’s Unwavering Dominance Against Baylor
The match against rival Baylor saw the Longhorns assert their superiority from the outset. Freshman outside hitter Cari Spears was the offensive catalyst, tying her career-high with 18 kills and achieving an exceptional .654 hitting percentage. Spears has rapidly emerged as a significant threat for opposing defenses, demonstrating remarkable skill and composure in her eighth collegiate appearance. Her offensive onslaught, particularly in the second set where she recorded six kills to help build a substantial lead, was instrumental in maintaining Texas’ momentum.
Beyond Spears’ standout performance, the entire Texas squad contributed to the sweep. Junior setter Ella Swindle orchestrated the offense, dishing out 31 assists and contributing three service aces. Senior libero Emma Halter also made her mark with two service aces, adding to the team’s season-high eight aces delivered by four different players. The defense was solid, with freshman middle blocker Taylor Harvey making key contributions at the net, notching five of the team’s eleven blocks in the final set.
This victory extended Texas’ remarkable home record against Baylor to an astounding 51-0, underscoring their historical dominance over the Bears in Austin. The team’s ability to secure three consecutive sweeps over ranked opponents – including No. 9 Arizona State and No. 9 TCU in preceding weeks – highlights their consistency and readiness for higher-level competition.
A Near-Perfect Nonconference Run
The 8-0 nonconference record is a testament to the No. 2 Texas volleyball team’s consistent high-level play throughout the early part of the 2025 season. Their schedule featured a challenging slate, including multiple victories against Top 25-ranked teams, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure against quality opponents. This undefeated run has positioned them as a top contender and a trending force in collegiate volleyball.
The Longhorns have showcased a blend of veteran leadership and dynamic freshman talent. Head coach Jerritt Elliott, in his 25th season, has cultivated a team culture defined by joy, mutual care, and intense competitiveness. “They have a lot of joy… I think they like being around each other. I think they take care of each other, they push each other and they train really hard. They’re super competitive. So when you get a combination of that, you get really good chemistry, you get a lot of trust and then you can perform at a high level,” Elliott commented on the team’s strong rapport.
This synergy has translated into impressive statistics, with the team tallying 45 kills, eight service aces, 41 digs, and five blocks against Baylor. Key players like setter Ella Swindle and libero Emma Halter have been crucial in maintaining team rhythm and execution, ensuring their offense operates efficiently. The team’s offensive attack consistently forced opponents into uncomfortable situations, a critical factor in their numerous sweeps.
Stepping into the SEC Arena
With the nonconference portion of their season successfully navigated, Texas now turns its attention to the highly competitive SEC. Their conference opener is scheduled against the Vanderbilt Commodores, a match they will host. Head coach Jerritt Elliott acknowledges the elevated level of competition within the SEC, stating, “Yes, it’s a really good competition, probably the best it’s ever been”. The conference boasts five teams ranked in the top 25 in the AVCA Coaches Poll, including No. 5 Texas itself, making it a challenging environment for all teams.
Texas entered the 2025 season with significant expectations, ranked No. 5 in the AVCA Preseason Coaches’ Poll and picked to finish second in the SEC. Their journey to this point has solidified their status as a top program, but the upcoming conference slate will be the true test of their championship aspirations. The team’s goal remains a return to the NCAA Final Four, a feat they narrowly missed in the 2024 season after a Sweet 16 exit.
A Legacy of Excellence
The success of the Texas volleyball program is built on a foundation of consistent high performance and a commitment to developing elite talent. Cari Spears, the daughter of LSU legend Marcus Spears, exemplifies this trend. A highly touted recruit, Spears has quickly made her mark on the collegiate scene, living up to her billing as one of the nation’s top prospects. Her integration into a team featuring established players like junior setter Ella Swindle and senior outside hitter Torrey Stafford creates a potent mix of experience and fresh energy.
The coaching staff, led by Elliott, has consistently guided the Longhorns to national prominence. Their approach emphasizes not only athletic development but also fostering a strong team culture, which appears to be paying dividends. As Texas embarks on its SEC schedule, the undefeated nonconference mark provides a powerful springboard, demonstrating their readiness to contend for major honors throughout the 2025 season. This news underscores the team’s position as a top contender, making their journey one to watch closely.
