1/3/2026
The CUNYAC men’s volleyball landscape entering the 2026 season shows a familiar hierarchy at the top, with clear separation forming through the middle of the pack and several programs still in rebuilding mode. Based on 2025 results and roster outlooks, the preseason rankings reflect both recent success and projected stability.
Baruch opens the season as the clear favorite after finishing 13-1 in conference play and claiming the 2025 CUNYAC championship. With five straight conference titles to their name, the Bearcats remain the standard. The question heading into 2026 is not whether Baruch belongs at the top, but who can realistically challenge them.
Hunter slots in just behind at No. 2 following a 12-2 conference record and a runner-up finish. The Hawks proved resilient last season and remain battle-tested. Their ability to respond after tough losses keeps them firmly in the championship conversation once again.
At No. 3, NJCU enters a new chapter after a dominant 16-2 Skyline campaign and a 23-10 overall record. A conference transition creates some uncertainty, but the Gothic Knights’ momentum suggests they will remain a factor immediately.
Lehman checks in at No. 4 after a solid .500 conference season highlighted by key wins, including a late victory over Baruch. With a young roster that held its own against conference contenders, the Lightning carry legitimate dark-horse potential.
The middle tier begins with John Jay at No. 5. A balanced 7-7 conference finish and a second-round playoff exit marked a step forward. With a younger roster and a new head coach, the Bloodhounds appear poised for continued growth and possible upset opportunities.
Brooklyn follows at No. 6 after a 9-5 conference season and a second-round exit. With the return of the 2025 Libero of the Year, Dion Csikortos, and a developing core, the Bulldogs have the pieces to move upward if consistency improves.
At No. 7, York showed flashes with a 5-9 conference mark but leaned heavily on a young roster. The Cardinals’ future looks promising, though immediate results may still be a year away.
CCNY lands at No. 8 after struggling to a 3-11 conference finish. The Beavers continue to rebuild and will look to make incremental progress game by game as they work their way back into contention.
Rounding out the rankings at No. 9 is Medgar Evers, coming off a winless conference season. The Cougars enter 2026 focused on development and steady improvement, with results likely measured more by competitiveness than standings.
As preseason rankings often do, this list sets the stage rather than the outcome. With conference play known for volatility and rivalry-driven intensity, the 2026 CUNYAC season still promises movement, surprises, and a chase that once again begins with Baruch at the summit.
These preseason rankings were as picked by the CUNYAC coaches, reflecting a league-wide assessment of where each program stands entering the 2026 campaign.
While Baruch remains the team to beat, InsideHitter.com sees a compelling storyline forming just behind them. NJCU’s arrival brings proven pedigree into the conference, and that experience should translate quickly. The Gothic Knights have shown they can win at a high level, and their competitive maturity positions them to make a significant mark in their first year in the league and legitimately challenge for top honors.
As always, preseason expectations only frame the narrative. Once conference play begins, results on the floor will determine whether tradition holds or a new contender rises.