Get ready for a groundbreaking moment in college volleyball as Penn State's women's team is set to take the court at the legendary Wrigley Field. On September 6, the Nittany Lions will clash with Kentucky in a thrilling doubleheader, marking the first time volleyball will grace the iconic baseball stadium. This event is part of the new Big Ten/SEC Volleyball Challenge, which also features a match between Nebraska and Missouri.
Penn State's volleyball legacy is nothing short of impressive, having clinched the national title in 2024. Kentucky, not to be overlooked, was the national runner-up in 2025, while Nebraska held that spot in 2023. The competition is fierce, and fans can expect top-tier performances from these powerhouse programs.
The Big Ten's 18 schools will engage in a series of matches against 16 SEC opponents starting September 1, culminating in this marquee showcase at Wrigley Field. The match times are set for 7 and 9 p.m. ET, but the exact lineup is still under wraps.
FOX will broadcast both outdoor matches live, ensuring fans across the nation can tune in. Tickets hit the market on April 9, available through the Chicago Cubs.
Crane Kenney, Cubs' President of Business Operations, expressed excitement about this historic event, highlighting the collaboration between the Chicago Cubs, Big Ten, and SEC. "We’re thrilled to welcome these incredible schools and student-athletes to the first-ever collegiate volleyball game at Wrigley Field," he stated.
SEC commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the significance of this initiative, noting how it elevates volleyball on a national stage and underscores the growing investment in women’s athletics.
Penn State’s volleyball program has a storied history, with 45 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances-an unmatched streak since the tournament's inception in 1981. Although they fell to No. 3 Texas in the second round last season, their eight NCAA titles are second only to Stanford's nine.
Interestingly, Penn State's women's volleyball team isn't the first from the university to compete outdoors at Wrigley. The men's hockey team faced off against Notre Dame there in January 2025, ending in a 3-3 tie.
This event is set to be a landmark moment for college volleyball, celebrating the sport's growth and the incredible talent of its athletes.