What is an ace in volleyball?

An ace in volleyball specifically refers to a serve that results in an immediate point. This occurs when the server delivers the ball in such a way that the opposing team fails to touch it or returns it, rendering it unreturnable. This can happen due to an effective serve that is either too fast for the opponents to react to or placed in a difficult spot that makes it hard for them to successfully return the ball.

In the context of volleyball, aces are crucial as they not only score points directly but also showcase a player's serving skills and ability to put pressure on the receiving team. The distinction of the ace lies in its nature as a serve, separate from other plays such as spikes or blocks, which do not classify as aces unless they occur as a direct result of a serve failing to be returned.