The AVCA has created a first-ever Watch List for its National Collegiate Men’s Player of the Year award. There are 15 players from 11 different schools on this inaugural list, including seven seniors, five juniors, two sophomores, and one freshman.

More players may be added as the season progresses, and a group of semifinalists will be announced in early April. Then, four finalists will be named shortly before the 2026 National Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Championship with the announcement of the Player of the Year taking place in Los Angeles at an awards banquet during the 2026 Championship.

The AVCA National Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Awards Committee is responsible for all phases of the Player of the Year process.

Player of the Year Watch List (released Feb. 4)