Last week, many of the top high school teams in the country gathered in Las Vegas to compete in the Durango Fall Classic. Just six days later, some of those same teams will be joined by other elite high school volleyball programs in Phoenix, Ariz., for the Nike Tournament of Champions. 

Michigan State head coach Cathy George knows what to expect across the net when she and her team face Iowa in the Big Ten opener on Friday: Dominant play from pin hitters Taylor Louis, Cali Hoye, and Reghan Coyle, and skillful, smart setting from sophomore setter Brie Orr. 

With a 5-0 record and 13 points, the USA Men’s National Team not only advanced to the second round of pool play at the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship, but did so as the third-ranked team overall.

At the conclusion of the first round of the 2018 FIVB Men’s World Championship, the USA men are undefeated, but the 5-0 record and a spot in the 16-team second round didn’t come easily.

After four weeks of pre-conference competition, it’s finally Big Ten volleyball season, and the first week of league play features some big-time matchups. 

The Big Ten has proven to be the most competitive volleyball conference in the country over the past few seasons. On Sunday, Big Ten teams wrapped up the pre-conference portion of their schedules and are poised to dive into league play. 

Eight consecutive victories (three of which came over ranked teams), zero losses, a Top 10 ranking, and—finally—a weekend at home. 

So much for easing into the drama.

The 10th Annual Nike Tournament of Champions (September 20-22, Phoenix, AZ) will showcase 96 of the most elite high school girls’ volleyball teams in the United States, including many of the preseason top 25 teams in the nation.

The Durango Fall Classic has brought together the top high school volleyball teams in the country since 1995. In its 24th season, the DFC will be a one-stop chance to watch top junior athletes who will make big impacts on elite college rosters in the future.