In a thrilling showdown, top-ranked Southern California secured its fourth consecutive beach volleyball championship by defeating No. 2 UCLA in a 3-0 sweep. The championship match, held in Gulf Shores, Alabama, featured intense competition with all five matches extending to a third game, a first in NCAA history since the sport was recognized in 2016.
Under the guidance of head coach Dain Blanton, USC showcased its dominance early on, taking a 2-0 lead behind impressive performances from its No. 2 and No. 4 pairs. Despite initial setbacks, USC's Madison White and Maddi Kriz rallied to secure victories, while Grace Seits and freshman Ashley Pater displayed resilience and skill to clinch crucial wins.
The deciding match came down to twin sisters Nicole and Audrey Nourse, who emerged victorious against UCLA's Jessie Smith and Kenzie Brower. The Nourse sisters' stellar performance, highlighted by a decisive 15-11 win, sealed the 2024 title for USC.
Notable contributions came from USC seniors Megan Kraft and Delaynie Maple, who demonstrated their experience and talent in a hard-fought battle against UCLA's top pair. Despite a valiant effort from the Bruins, Kraft and Maple's consistency proved vital in securing the championship for USC.
While UCLA put up a strong fight, USC's depth and determination ultimately proved too much to overcome. The Trojans' path to the championship included a semifinal victory over Cal Poly, setting the stage for a thrilling final showdown with UCLA.
With this victory, USC continues its legacy as a powerhouse in beach volleyball, adding to its impressive record of six championships, four of which have come under Coach Blanton's leadership. The intense competition and high stakes of the championship match further solidified USC's status as a dominant force in collegiate beach volleyball.
Looking ahead, both USC and UCLA have set a high standard for excellence in the sport, promising exciting matchups and fierce competition in future seasons.
