Indiana Volleyball Will Begin Big Ten Play at Home
The No. 18 Hoosiers will host UCLA and Maryland at Wilkinson Hall starting September 24.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Volleyball
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Indiana University volleyball opens its Big Ten conference schedule with home matches against UCLA and Maryland. The Hoosiers enter the stretch with a 7-2 record.
Why it matters
The upcoming matches mark the official start of a 17-match conference slate that will determine seeding for the postseason. Indiana is currently ranked No. 18 in the nation according to the latest AVCA poll.
Indiana and UCLA both average 13.64 kills per set, while UCLA leads the conference with 2.76 blocks per set compared to Indiana's 2.0 blocks per set. Maryland enters the week with a 10-1 record and a .335 hitting percentage.
The players
Indiana University
This public research university located in Bloomington competes as a member of the Big Ten Conference.
UCLA
The University of California, Los Angeles is a member of the Big Ten Conference with a 9-2 record.
Maryland
The University of Maryland is a member of the Big Ten Conference currently holding a 10-1 record.
Steve Aird
He serves as the head coach for the Indiana University volleyball team.
The details
Indiana University hosts its conference opener at Wilkinson Hall in Bloomington. Fans can watch both matches as they stream on the Big Ten+ platform.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: Indiana begins the Big Ten schedule against UCLA.
September 26, 2026: Indiana plays Maryland at home.
Season Trajectory
These matches serve as the opening test for a 17-match conference slate that will define Indiana's trajectory toward the postseason. Maintaining their ranking against high-performing conference rivals like UCLA and Maryland is essential for the team's standing.
Indiana faces a UCLA squad that is currently generating 2.76 blocks per set, presenting a direct challenge to the Hoosiers' offensive efficiency. The result of these matchups will immediately shift the conference standings and impact Indiana's potential for tournament qualification.
The takeaway
The team's ability to navigate the block-heavy defense of UCLA will be a key factor in their success this week. Consistency in hitting and blocking remains the primary metric for evaluating their progress as they move into the heart of the conference season.
Further reading
For more updates, visit the Volleyball section.
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