LOUISVILLE, KY. – In a thrilling matchup during the NCAA Tournament’s National Semifinal, the top-seeded Pitt volleyball team faced a tough challenge against fellow No. 1 seed Louisville, ultimately falling 3-1. Despite an impressive performance from Olivia Babcock, who set a Pitt program record with 33 kills and maintained an impressive .391 hitting percentage, the Panthers could not secure the victory.
Babcock’s standout game showcased not only her skill but also the potential of the team. Torrey Stafford supported her with a double-double, contributing 18 kills and 14 digs, while Emmy Klika offered solid defense with a season-high of 21 digs. The match marked an intense battle, with the teams exchanging leads and throughout the sets.
Pitt started strong by winning the first set 25-21 after rallying behind key kills from Babcock and Stafford. However, Louisville fought back, taking the second set 25-23 after several lead changes. The third and most dramatic set saw Pitt leading most of the way but ultimately losing 29-27, unable to convert set points. In the fourth set, the Cardinals established an early lead and held on to win the match 25-17.
Looking forward, this performance highlights the growing talent within the Pitt volleyball program. With Babcock’s record-setting effort and the team’s resilience, there are strong foundations laid for future competitions. While the loss is disappointing, it serves as a reminder of the competitive spirit present in collegiate volleyball, with the Panthers poised to come back even stronger in upcoming seasons. The challenges faced this year will undoubtedly contribute to their growth and development.