Long Beach State University Women’s Volleyball will return home for a three-match series at the LBS Financial Credit Union Pyramid in Long Beach, California, from September 11 through 13, 2026. The Beach will open the series on Friday, Sept. 11, with a 7 p.m. match against Brown.
On Saturday, Sept. 12, there will be a neutral site match between Brown and Loyola Marymount at 1 p.m., followed by Long Beach State hosting San José State at 4 p.m. The weekend concludes Sunday, Sept. 13, with a 4 p.m. matchup against Loyola Marymount.
Coming off a strong 3-0 performance at the Utah Classic, Long Beach State defeated Eastern Illinois in straight sets and won two five-set matches against Utah and Wyoming. Sophomore outside hitter Sidney Hamaker has led the team in kills in every match this season, averaging 3.75 kills per set and recording a career-high 20 kills in the win over Utah.
Senior outside hitter Kendal Murphy, a transfer from Baylor, leads the team with seven service aces and has contributed 31 kills while playing all six rotations. Junior setter Madi Maxwell has earned Big West Setter of the Week honors after recording two triple-doubles this season and leads the team in assists and digs. Freshman middle blocker Kyler Birkelbach and senior middle blocker Reagan Hope share the team lead with 16 blocks each, while Hope maintains a team-best .367 hitting percentage.
Long Beach State concluded the 2025 season with a 22-9 overall record and was selected second in the Big West Conference preseason coaches poll. The program, led by third-year head coach Natalie Reagan, boasts five national championships and ranks eighth in Division I history for total wins.
CSB Take
Long Beach State University Women’s Volleyball is entering a crucial stretch of its season with home court advantage that could prove pivotal in conference play. The team’s recent unbeaten run at the Utah Classic demonstrates their growing cohesion and resilience, led by standout performances from Sidney Hamaker and Madi Maxwell. These upcoming matches will test their ability to maintain momentum and solidify their position as contenders within the competitive Big West Conference. Strategic focus on team depth and consistent execution will be key factors as they aim to continue their proud tradition of excellence.
Source: Original report
