Suli Davis Powers SMU Volleyball to National Ranking

The standout sophomore outside hitter has propelled the Mustangs to a No. 6 ranking this season.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Volleyball

Expressive sports illustration of a volleyball player in mid-air, spiking the ball with dynamic brush strokes and motion. — SMU sophomore outside hitter Suli Davis has propelled the Mustangs to a No. 6 national ranking following a series of high-impact victories. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Sophomore outside hitter Suli Davis is leading the No. 6 ranked SMU volleyball team through a breakout season. Her high-volume play has helped the Mustangs secure major victories against programs like Stanford, Kentucky, and Pitt.

Why it matters

Davis transferred to SMU from Brigham Young University to anchor a starting lineup at a program pursuing its first national championship. Her immediate impact has been central to SMU’s climb into the top tier of collegiate volleyball rankings.

Davis has recorded 550 attack attempts this season while earning ACC Offensive Player of the Week honors twice. The SMU team currently holds a No. 6 national ranking.

The players

Suli Davis

She is a sophomore outside hitter at SMU who previously earned Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors at Brigham Young University.

SMU

Southern Methodist University is a Dallas-based institution currently competing with a top-10 nationally ranked volleyball program.

The details

Since arriving in Dallas, Davis has utilized her experience as the former Big 12 Freshman of the Year to elevate the performance standards of her new teammates. She continues to be recognized for her dominance, including earning AVCA National Player of the Week honors in September.

In September 2026, Davis received AVCA National Player of the Week honors.
During September 2026, she earned ACC Offensive Player of the Week recognition twice.
In October 2026, the SMU team defeated Stanford.

Season Trajectory

Davis has positioned herself as a leading contender for national honors, following her recognition on the AVCA National Player of the Year Watch List. Her performance trajectory directly impacts SMU's ability to maintain its No. 6 national ranking throughout the remainder of the season.

With 550 attack attempts already this season, Davis serves as the primary offensive engine for the SMU rotation. Her high usage rate remains the most critical metric for fans tracking the team's ability to sustain its momentum against top-ranked opponents.

The takeaway

Davis serves as a prime example of how the transfer portal can instantly elevate a program's competitive standing. Fans looking for high-level collegiate play should watch her usage rates as SMU faces tougher opponents in the late-season schedule.