The NCAA Women's Water Polo Committee has announced the nine teams competing in the 2026 National Collegiate Women's Water Polo Championship. The championship, featuring a single-elimination format, will take place at UC San Diego from April 22 to April 26. An opening-round match will feature Wagner against CUI, with the winner moving on to face reigning champion Stanford. Other notable matchups include California vs. Hawai'i and UCLA vs. Harvard. Automatic qualifiers from various conferences have been announced alongside three at-large selections.

By the Numbers
  • Opening round match: Wagner (15-12) vs. CUI (20-9).
  • Defending champion: Stanford (14-1).
  • Total teams in tournament: 9.
  • First round and semifinals streamed on NCAA.com.
Yes, But

Despite a wide representation of teams, the lack of geographical restrictions in at-large selections may spark debates about fairness in entry into the championships.

State of Play
  • The opening round is set for April 22, followed by the championship games from April 24-26.
  • Games will be hosted at the Canyonview Aquatic Center in La Jolla, California.
What's Next

Fans can expect intense competition as teams strive for the championship, with anticipation building for the reigning champions' opening game against the winner of the opening round match. Ticket sales are active through the Triton Box Office.

Bottom Line

The 2026 NCAA Women's Water Polo Championship promises to deliver thrilling matchups, with significant implications for the participating teams, including a chance for glory against formidable opponents like Stanford.