Courtney Lyle and Holly McPeak Call UCLA vs Cal Poly at NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships: How to Watch

Volleyball enthusiasts across the UK and globe are gearing up for an electrifying clash in the NCAA Beach Volleyball Championships as the No. 3 seed UCLA Bruins take on the No. 6 seed Cal Poly Mustangs in the second round. Scheduled for 18:00 UK time on Saturday at the sun-soaked Gulf Shores Beach in Alabama, this high-stakes matchup promises thrilling rallies and intense competition. While British viewers might lament the absence of BBC, Sky, ITV, or TNT coverage, US fans can catch the action live on ESPN2, with streaming available via the ESPN App and ESPN Unlimited (subscription required, geo-restricted). Leading the commentary booth is the dynamic duo of Courtney Lyle as main commentator, alongside co-commentator Holly McPeak, with Madison Fitzpatrick reporting from the sands.

The broadcast team brings a wealth of expertise to elevate the viewing experience. Courtney Lyle, a seasoned volleyball voice, has carved out a distinguished career calling major events for ESPN, including multiple NCAA Championships and AVP tours. Her sharp insights and energetic delivery have made her a staple in beach volleyball coverage, drawing from her background as a former collegiate player and analyst who transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting. Joining her is Holly McPeak, a true legend of the sport. As a two-time Olympic medallist (silver in 1996 and bronze in 2004) and three-time FIVB World Champion, McPeak dominated the professional beach volleyball scene with over 100 career victories. Post-retirement, she has excelled as a pundit and commentator, offering invaluable perspectives from her Hall of Fame induction in 2018. Madison Fitzpatrick, the on-site reporter, adds fresh energy with her rising profile in sports media, covering collegiate and pro events with keen sideline analysis.

This second-round encounter follows UCLA's opening victory over No. 14 Tulane on Friday, televised on ESPN2. The Bruins, boasting a stellar 30-6 record, enter as heavy favourites against Cal Poly (30-8), whom they have dominated historically with a 17-1 series lead, including narrow 3-2 wins this season on April 3 and earlier. Key moments from those duels, like Ava Williamson and Adelina Okazaki's three-set triumph on court four, underscore the Mustangs' resilience despite the lopsided head-to-head. UCLA's Kenzie Brower brings six career NCAA Tournament wins, bolstering their championship pedigree as they chase a deep run towards Sunday's ESPN-televised final.

Cal Poly, no strangers to close battles, will look to channel their underdog spirit after edging past Grand Canyon in the first round. The Mustangs' pairs, including standouts like Julia Westby and Elise Lenahan, have tested UCLA before, setting up potential for another five-court thriller. With the semifinals looming at 2:30pm CT (20:30 UK time), the winner secures a spot in the final four, amplifying the pressure on Gulf Shores' pristine courts.

For global fans, the ESPN coverage ensures top-tier production, blending Lyle and McPeak's banter with real-time stats and player interviews via Fitzpatrick. UK audiences can access streams through VPNs or official apps where available, though geo-blocks apply. This championship, running May 1-3, highlights beach volleyball's explosive growth, with UCLA aiming to add to their legacy in a sport blending athleticism and strategy under the Alabama sun.

Stay tuned as these Pacific Coast powerhouses collide, where every dig and spike could swing momentum. For the official 2026 NCAA Beach Volleyball Bracket, visit NCAA.com to track progress and buy tickets. Whether you're a die-hard Bruin or rooting for a Mustang upset, this is unmissable beach volleyball drama.

Article generated: 2 May 2026, 18:02 GMT