CU Buffs returning to college volleyball's Big Dance

The Colorado volleyball team celebrates a close win over Utah on Sept. 19 at CU Events Center. (Cliff Grassmick / Staff Photographer)

Give the Colorado volleyball team credit for this: Under coach Jesse Mahoney, the Buffaloes are developing a habit of coming on strong when it matters most.

For the second consecutive year, a big push down the stretch has vaulted the Buffs into the NCAA Tournament. On Sunday night, Mahoney's club learned it will take on South Carolina in a first-round match Friday at the University of Minnesota.

It is the second consecutive NCAA tourney berth for CU and the program's fourth over the past six seasons. Last year, the Buffs defeated James Madison and host Baylor in…