Penn State women’s volleyball announced Thursday that it will play Stanford in the Palestra on Friday, September 11. It will be the Nittany Lions’ first appearance at the historic venue in 41 years.

It's been a while…

We make our return to The Palestra for the first time in 41 years!#WeAre pic.twitter.com/lMnONjibok

— Penn State Women’s Volleyball (@PennStateVBALL) July 16, 2026

“I am incredibly excited for our team and for the sport of volleyball to have the opportunity to compete in such a historic venue,” said Penn State head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley. “Celebrating 100 years, The Palestra has been the home to countless unforgettable moments in college athletics, and it is truly one of the most iconic arenas in the country. To be able to play in a building with that kind of tradition and history is something our student-athletes will remember for the rest of their lives.”

Schumacher-Cawley is no stranger to the Palestra, having notched six wins there as head coach of the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. However, Penn State has played at the Palestra just once prior to the upcoming 2026 matchup, when they swept UPenn on November 2, 1985.

“The University of Pennsylvania is a place that holds special meaning for me, so having the opportunity to return to Philadelphia and compete there makes this event special,” Schumacher-Cawley said. “I’m grateful that our team will get the chance to play against Stanford in front of what I know will be an incredible atmosphere. Events like this continue to elevate our sport, honor its history, and create experiences that inspire our players and fans.”

The Nittany Lions’ matchup with Stanford is nothing short of a historic heavyweight bout, given that the two programs lead the NCAA in championships. Stanford’s nine rings sit at the top, followed immediately by Penn State’s eight.

The most recent encounter saw Penn State defeat the Cardinals in five sets back in 2022. Now, the Nittany Lions have the opportunity to even the all-time series record, which currently stands in Stanford’s favor, 14-13.

Women’s volleyball becomes the second Penn State team to schedule an upcoming game at the Palestra after men’s basketball announced last Thursday that it will play Pitt at the Palestra on November 8.

Game time, television information, and ticket details will be announced at a later date, according to PSU Athletics.