Texas Beach Volleyball Heads to Honolulu for Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Classic
Date Published
The No. 6 Texas Beach Volleyball team is wasting no time diving into top-tier competition this season. The Longhorns head to Honolulu for the prestigious Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Beach Classic, a tournament packed with elite West Coast programs and a chance to make an early national statement. While the action will take place far from Houston, local fans have plenty of reason to keep an eye on this one.
Texas enters the weekend riding a wave of momentum after an impressive opening stretch. Now, the Longhorns face USC, UCLA, Hawai'i, and other perennial powerhouses in a multi-day event that traditionally shapes the early-season rankings. For a program still establishing itself among the nation's best, this tournament offers the perfect proving ground.
Texas Looks to Build on Early Confidence
The Outrigger Classic offers a different kind of test for Texas. The Longhorns will compete across multiple duels each day, giving the roster a chance to show depth and consistency against elite pairings. The event’s signature format ensures every court matters, and Texas will need strong performances beyond its top pairings.
Fans should watch for the Longhorns’ experienced duo rotations, which continue to evolve with early-season adjustments. Texas has shown improved chemistry across the lineup, and the demanding field in Honolulu will help reveal how far this squad can climb.
This is also a chance for newcomers and underclassmen to shine. Tournament settings reward teams that can weather long days, shift pairings when needed, and maintain momentum through multiple high-pressure sets.
Why This Tournament Matters
Texas is coming off one of the strongest starts in program history, and the national ranking reflects that growth. Performing well in Honolulu could cement the Longhorns’ position among the nation’s elite before conference play intensifies.
For Houston-based fans, this tournament is a chance to see how Texas stacks up against schools that have dominated beach volleyball for years. If the Longhorns can hold their own—or even notch a few marquee wins—it sets the tone for what could be their best season yet.
What’s Next
After the Outrigger Classic, Texas returns to the mainland for more nonconference matchups before shifting toward the core of its spring schedule. Results from Honolulu will influence seeding, momentum, and national perception throughout March and April.
This article is a summary of reporting by University of Texas Athletics. Read the full story here.