Big Ten Volleyball Drama: Transfers, Coaching Shakeups, and International Highlights

The Big Ten might be making headlines on the court with Nebraska and Penn State dominating the NCAA Division I Volleyball Championship, but this week’s real action took place off the court. Let’s dive into the chaos, surprises, and a touch of international flair shaking up the volleyball world.

Michigan State Hits Reset

In a move no one saw coming, Michigan State and head coach Leah Johnson “mutually agreed” to part ways effective immediately. Translation: the Spartans are hunting for a new leader. Johnson, who helmed the program for three seasons, departs after a 13-18 season with a 6-14 conference record. Despite the struggles, Johnson had some bright spots, including the team’s first win over a ranked opponent at home since 2017 and drawing record-breaking crowds.

With Johnson’s exit, Michigan State becomes the fifth Power 4 program searching for a head coach. Add Wake Forest, UCF, Cincinnati, and NC State to the mix, and it’s officially a coaching carousel.

Purdue’s Unexpected Roster Shake-Up

Purdue’s season may have ended in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, but the Boilermakers now face a daunting offseason. Their star outside hitters, Eva Hudson and Chloe Chicoine, have entered the transfer portal, along with middle blocker Lourdes Myers. Hudson, a Big Ten first-teamer, and Chicoine, a second-teamer, were pivotal to Purdue’s success this year. Whoever snags this trio is getting a game-changing lineup.

Transfers Galore: Who’s Heading Where?

Speaking of transfers, the portal is buzzing with activity. NCAA kills leader Caylen Alexander is trading Hawai’i sunshine for Missouri. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s Emmi Sellman is heading to Penn State, adding even more firepower to the Nittany Lions’ roster. In this high-stakes volleyball chess game, teams are reshuffling faster than ever.

Arizona and Bowling Green Face Off in NIVC Championship

Shifting focus to the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (NIVC), Arizona and Bowling Green will clash for the title. Arizona’s Wildcats, riding a 10-game winning streak, face the MAC’s Bowling Green Falcons in what promises to be an electrifying match. Fun fact: these two haven’t squared off since 1988—a rematch 35 years in the making.

Pro Volleyball Federation Expands TV Reach

On the pro side, the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF) announced a new TV deal with FS1 and FS2, adding 13 nationally televised matches to its 2025 schedule. With four matches on FS1, nine on FS2, and a mid-season all-star game on CBS, the PVF’s star power is growing. Volleyball fans, mark your calendars for February 22—Indianapolis is hosting the all-star showdown.

USA Volleyball Gets a New COO

USA Volleyball’s new Chief Operating Officer, Steve Bishop, takes the reins on January 6, 2025. A U.S. Air Force veteran and volleyball lifer, Bishop brings 20 years of leadership experience to the role. His mission? To grow the sport and elevate USA Volleyball’s impact nationwide. If his track record is any indication, big things are on the horizon.

American Women Shine Abroad

From Turkey to Brazil, American players are lighting up international courts. Highlights include:

• Taylor Bannister’s 23-kill performance for Vasas in Hungary’s Champions League match against Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce.
• Dana Rettke’s dominant display for Eczacibasi in Turkey, hitting .600 with seven kills in a key rivalry win.
• Riley Wagoner leading CSM Targoviste into the Challenge Cup quarterfinals with a 15-kill performance.

Across Europe and beyond, former NCAA stars continue to make their mark on the global stage, proving the sport’s reach knows no bounds.

Southern California Indoor Volleyball Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Finally, the Southern California Indoor Volleyball Hall of Fame (SCIVBHOF) unveiled its 2025 inductees. Notable names include Texas coach Jerritt Elliott and USC legend Chuck Erbe. The induction ceremony is set for May 3, 2026, so volleyball fans have plenty of time to polish their celebratory digs.

Wrapping Up

From coaching changes and transfer drama to international highlights, the volleyball world is serving up nonstop excitement. Whether it’s the Big Ten’s offseason shuffle or American players dominating abroad, one thing is clear: the game never stops evolving. Stay tuned—the next big story could be just a spike away.