UCLA men's volleyball wins longest set in NCAA history

Bruins defeat Ohio State 48-46 in marathon second set

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:07pm

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The UCLA men's volleyball team defeated Ohio State in a match that featured the longest set in NCAA history. The second set went to 48-46, with UCLA eventually prevailing after fending off multiple set points from the Buckeyes.

Why it matters

This marathon set showcases the incredible skill and endurance of top-level men's volleyball players, as they battled back and forth for over 70 points to determine the winner of a single set. It highlights the competitive nature of the sport at the highest level.

The details

The second set between UCLA and Ohio State went well beyond the standard 25-point format, with the teams trading points until UCLA finally closed out the 48-46 victory. Ohio State had the first five set points starting at 24-23, but UCLA fought them off each time. The Bruins eventually went up 47-46 on a big block, and then sealed the set with an ace serve.

  • The match took place on Thursday, January 30, 2026.
  • The marathon second set lasted over an hour of play.

The players

UCLA Bruins

The top-ranked men's volleyball team in the country, who improved to 8-0 on the season with the sweep of Ohio State.

Ohio State Buckeyes

The 13th-ranked men's volleyball team, who battled the Bruins in the historic second set.

Andrew Rowan

The UCLA player who served the ace to clinch the 48-46 second set victory.

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What’s next

UCLA will face a national championship rematch against Long Beach State on Friday, February 6, 2026.

The takeaway

The historic 48-46 second set between UCLA and Ohio State demonstrates the intense competition and high level of play in NCAA men's volleyball. It will be a tough act to follow, even in the Bruins' upcoming match against another top program.