In a thrilling National Semifinal match of the NCAA Tournament, the top-seeded Pitt volleyball team faced a challenging defeat against the No. 1-seeded Louisville, losing 3-1. Despite the loss, Olivia Babcock made history by securing a career-high 33 kills, setting a program record for the most kills in an NCAA Tournament game, while hitting an impressive .391 percentage.
The match, held at the KFC Yum! Center, showcased the intensity and competitive spirit both teams displayed. Babcock’s outstanding performance was complemented by Torrey Stafford, who achieved a double-double with 18 kills and 14 digs, and Emmy Klika, who recorded a season-high 21 digs.
The match began with Pitt pulling ahead in the first set after exchanging leads with Louisville, ultimately clinching it 25-21. However, the momentum shifted in the second set, where Louisville rallied back to tie the match at 1-1 after winning 25-23. The tension built in the third set as both teams fought hard, but despite holding multiple set points, Pitt fell short, with Louisville winning 29-27. The Cardinals capped off their victory by taking the fourth set 25-17, marking the end of Pitt’s impressive season.
Overall, although Pitt was unable to secure a win, their performance in the tournament was commendable and highlighted the resilience and talent of their players. Babcock’s record-breaking achievement adds a bright spot to the season, and the team can take valuable lessons into future competitions. With continued dedication and skill development, the Panthers have a promising future ahead in volleyball.