Long Beach State, ranked No. 3 nationally with an 18-4 record, is set to host No. 8 UC Santa Barbara for a two-match series this weekend. The Beach have excelled in elite serving, disciplined blocking, and efficient offense, leading the nation in aces. With a historical edge in the series, winning eight straight, the Beach will look to maintain their momentum against a Gauchos team showcasing balance and rhythm.

By the Numbers
  • Long Beach State leads all NCAA teams with 190 total aces, averaging 2.44 aces per set.
  • The Beach rank No. 1 in the Big West with 2.65 blocks per set and hit .354 as a team, while holding opponents to .227.
State of Play
  • Long Beach State holds an all-time series record of 64-42 against UCSB, winning the last eight encounters.
  • The Gauchos currently sit at 13-9, averaging 11.95 kills per set and hitting .254 as a team.
What's Next

Following the series against UCSB, Long Beach State will head north for a two-match Big West series, potentially impacting their conference standings and NCAA seeding.

Bottom Line

The outcome against UCSB is crucial for Long Beach State to solidify their strong season and maintain momentum heading into the final stretch and postseason. Their ability to control the match's tempo with serving and strong defense will be key to their success.