What Is 2014 Men's Volleyball Division 1

Overview

The 2014 NCAA Men's Volleyball Division I Championship was a pivotal event in collegiate volleyball, culminating in a dramatic final between two powerhouse programs: UCLA and BYU. Held on May 3, 2014, the tournament concluded at the Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, marking the first time the venue hosted the championship since 1996.

This championship showcased elite-level men's collegiate volleyball, featuring intense competition among the top teams in the nation. The tournament format included four teams competing in a single-elimination bracket, with semifinals and a final determining the national champion.

• UCLA entered the final as the No. 2 seed with a 23–5 record, seeking their first title since 2006.
• BYU, the top seed with a 27–4 record, was making its second consecutive appearance in the final.
• The championship match lasted five sets, ending with UCLA winning 3–2 (22–25, 25–23, 25–23, 19–25, 15–11).
• Kevin Hansen of BYU recorded 34 kills in the final, one of the highest totals in championship history.
• Merrick McHenry, a freshman for UCLA, contributed crucial blocks and served as a key offensive weapon.

How It Works

The NCAA Men's Volleyball Division I Championship operates under a structured tournament format involving selection, seeding, and single-elimination play. Teams qualify based on season performance, conference results, and at-large bids determined by a selection committee.

• Selection Sunday: The NCAA announces the four-team field on April 20, 2014, based on RPI and conference championships. The at-large bid went to Grand Canyon.
• Tournament Format: A four-team single-elimination bracket is used, with semifinals on May 1 and the final on May 3, 2014.
• Host Site: The Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, was selected as host, with the University of Hawaii organizing logistics.
• Eligibility: Only Division I and Division II teams that meet NCAA eligibility standards can participate in the tournament.
• Scoring System: Matches use rally scoring, with sets played to 25 points (minimum two-point lead required).
• Player Awards: The Most Outstanding Player award was given to UCLA’s Bohan Wang, who led in assists and composure under pressure.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of the 2014 finalists and past champions highlights performance trends and program dominance:

The table illustrates how UCLA’s 2014 title added to its legacy as the most successful program in NCAA men's volleyball history. Despite BYU’s stronger regular-season record, UCLA’s experience and composure in critical moments proved decisive. The championship also marked the final title for legendary coach Al Scates, who retired after the season.

Why It Matters

The 2014 Men's Volleyball Division I Championship had lasting implications for collegiate sports, player development, and program prestige. It highlighted the growing competitiveness of men's volleyball and expanded national interest in the sport.

• The championship elevated UCLA’s title count to 19, extending its record as the most decorated program.
• BYU’s strong performance solidified its status as a national contender in men’s volleyball.
• The event boosted attendance and viewership, with over 7,000 fans attending the final in Honolulu.
• It marked the final match coached by Al Scates, ending a 50-year tenure with 19 titles.
• The tournament showcased emerging talent, including future professional players like Merrick McHenry and Spencer Linton.
• Hosting in Hawaii expanded geographic exposure, encouraging future NCAA events in non-traditional markets.

The 2014 championship remains a landmark moment in NCAA volleyball history, symbolizing both the culmination of a legendary coaching career and the rise of new competitive forces in the sport.