SMU Volleyball will compete in the 2026 Paradise Invitational in the Bahamas, facing elite Power 4 programs in a premier NCAA showcase event.
SMU Volleyball is trading Moody Coliseum for palm trees and Power 4 heavyweights. The Mustangs have been selected as one of four programs invited to the inaugural Paradise Invitational, a premium NCAA women’s volleyball showcase set for September 11-13 at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas.
SMU joins Houston, Kentucky and Purdue - one elite program from each Power 4 conference - in what’s being billed as a first-of-its-kind destination event for the sport.
This isn’t just another early-season tournament. It’s volleyball leveling up.
“Events like this are big time, and we've seen them happening in men's basketball for years,” SMU head coach Sam Erger said. “Women's volleyball has stepped up to the national stage and has the fan bases and excitement to participate in these exciting opportunities. Great teams, great location and a great opportunity to elevate our sport.”
The spotlight is getting brighter - and SMU plans to be ready.
The Mustangs will play two matches during the Bahamas showcase, with ticket packages for fans going on sale March 16 at paradiseinvitational.com.
Organizers say additional details, including match times and broadcast information, will be released soon.
The Paradise Invitational marks one of three marquee non-conference dates already locked in for SMU’s 2026 schedule.
Before heading to the islands, the Mustangs will open the season at the AVCA First Serve Showcase in Milwaukee on August 23 against Texas A&M - another high-profile matchup designed to test them early.
Between Milwaukee and the Bahamas, SMU Volleyball is clearly leaning into national exposure and elite competition.
And if the Mustangs handle business on the sand-lined sidelines of Nassau, the 2026 season could start with more than sunshine ... it could start with statement wins.