Hailey
The Kansas State Wildcats volleyball team has officially earned a place in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, marking an exciting milestone for the program.
This selection represents K-State’s first NCAA appearance since 2021 and the 19th tournament berth in program history.
It also stands as a major achievement for head coach Jason Mansfield, now completing his third season leading the Wildcats.
K-State enters the national stage with a strong 17–9 overall record and a 10–8 finish in the Big 12 Conference, which ranked among the toughest volleyball leagues in the country this season.
Their consistently competitive play, strong wins, and improved team performance helped secure them a well-deserved at-large bid.
K-State Volleyball 2025 Tournament Snapshot
Below is a quick breakdown of the Wildcats’ key tournament information:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Team | Kansas State Wildcats Volleyball |
| 2025 Overall Record | 17–9 |
| Big 12 Record/Finish | 10–8 (tied for 6th) |
| Tournament Bid | At-Large Bid |
| NCAA Appearance | 19th All-Time |
| Head Coach | Jason Mansfield (3rd Year) |
| First-Round Opponent | San Diego Toreros |
| Opponent Record | 25–4 (18–0 WCC) |
| Match Date | Friday, December 5, 2025 |
| Match Time | 4:30 p.m. CT |
| Location | Bob Devaney Sports Center, Lincoln, Nebraska |
| Potential Second Opponent | Winner of Nebraska vs. LIU |
| K-State NCAA Tournament Record | 15–18 All-Time |
| All-Time vs San Diego | 0–2 |
Why K-State Earned the At-Large Bid
The Wildcats’ journey to the 2025 NCAA Tournament was built on consistency and standout performances throughout the season.
Competing in the Big 12 Conference, one of the deepest and most competitive volleyball leagues in the nation, K-State proved its strength against multiple ranked opponents.
Their signature victory came on the final weekend of regular-season play, when K-State swept a ranked Iowa State team on the road.
This victory gave the Wildcats a major rankings boost and helped cement their tournament résumé.
A combination of high-level defense, improved attacking percentages, experienced leadership, and disciplined coaching all contributed to their successful campaign. Under Coach Mansfield, the program has steadily rebuilt itself into a postseason contender, and this NCAA bid reflects that progress.
First-Round Showdown: K-State vs. San Diego
K-State will open its tournament run against the San Diego Toreros, who bring a dominant 25–4 record and an undefeated conference performance into the matchup.
San Diego is known for its fast tempo, aggressive blocking, and postseason experience.
Match Details
- Date: Friday, December 5
- Time: 4:30 p.m. CT
- Venue: Bob Devaney Sports Center, Lincoln, Nebraska
The Wildcats trail the all-time series 0–2, with their most notable loss coming in the 1997 NCAA Tournament. Their 2025 showdown gives K-State a fresh opportunity to rewrite that history.
Navigating the Lincoln Regional Pod
K-State’s regional assignment is challenging but full of opportunity. Should the Wildcats defeat San Diego, they would move on to face either:
- Nebraska Cornhuskers (No. 1 overall seed, undefeated), or
- LIU Sharks, the Northeast Conference champions.
Facing Nebraska would be one of the toughest possible second-round matchups, but it would also provide K-State with a massive national spotlight and the chance to knock off the tournament’s top favorite.
K-State’s NCAA Tournament Legacy
This year’s NCAA appearance marks:
- 19 total tournament berths in program history
- First appearance since 2021
- First NCAA Tournament under Jason Mansfield
The Wildcats have previously made three Sweet 16 runs, giving the program the postseason foundation and experience needed to compete at a high level.
The 2025 NCAA Tournament marks an exciting new chapter for K-State volleyball, showcasing growth, resilience, and elite-level competition.
With a strong 17–9 record, key late-season victories, and a talented roster, the Wildcats enter the national stage ready to compete.
Whether facing a dominant San Diego squad in the opening round or a potential showdown with top-seeded Nebraska, Kansas State has earned its place and is poised to make an impact.
The Wildcats have worked hard to return to the postseason — now it’s time to see how far they can go.