Volleyball game between the Texas Longhorns and TCU Horned Frogs at Gregory Gymnasium in Austin, Texas on September 17, 2025. (Photo: UT Athletics)
The No. 2 Texas Longhorns delivered yet another masterful performance, proving their dominant early season run is far from a fluke by sweeping their latest ranked opponent, the No. 9 TCU Horned Frogs. In a dazzling display of offense and defense at Gregory Gym, the Longhorns secured a resounding victory with set scores of 25-12, 25-17, and 25-18. This win advances Texas's record to an immaculate 7-0 on the year and marks the team's sixth defeat of a ranked opponent in only seven total matches. The Longhorns are not just winning; they are establishing themselves as the nation’s most consistent powerhouse.
The offensive charge was spearheaded by junior Torrey Stafford, who continued her stellar run by registering her fifth double-double of the season. Stafford was virtually unstoppable, leading the match with 15 kills while hitting an incredible .542 attack percentage. She also proved to be a force from the service line, delivering three service aces, which accounted for half of the team’s total. As a unit, Texas was devastatingly efficient, finishing the night with a collective .415 hitting percentage while holding the Horned Frogs to a meager 28 kills and a .163 attack percentage. TCU’s sweep was their first since November of last season, further highlighting the overwhelming challenge they faced in a venue where they have not won a single set since October 2018.
The match began with a statement. Texas immediately surged ahead in the first set with an impressive 6-0 run ignited by junior defensive specialist Ramsey Gary at the service line. The Longhorns dominated every facet of play, hitting over .500 (specifically .520) with 15 kills, while the Texas defense completely stifled the Horned Frogs, holding them to only five kills and a zero hitting percentage. Freshman Cari Spears led the defensive effort with five digs, while Stafford and Emma Halter both chipped in with two service aces. Holding an opponent to just 12 points, a feat Texas last achieved in the NCAA Tournament First Round last season, set the immediate expectation for the night.
The second set was the tightest contest, featuring 10 ties and three lead changes, keeping the crowd engaged and on edge. However, Texas once again found another gear, closing the set on a powerful 11-3 run. Spears found her rhythm again, contributing five of her 10 kills in the second frame and finishing the night with an impressive .526 hitting percentage. Her ability to deliver timely attacks was instrumental in pulling Texas away from the competitive set.
In the third set, the Longhorns completed their fourth sweep of the year. Freshman Abby Vander Wal stepped up, leading the team’s final push with six kills. Stafford continued her lights-out performance, knocking down eight kills and digging six balls, demonstrating her value as a truly two-way player. This final surge secured the decisive 25-18 victory, cementing the Longhorns' flawless run. Next up, Texas prepares for yet another top 25 challenge as they host No. 21 Baylor, marking their fifth straight matchup against a ranked opponent.
University of Texas Volleyball
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