In an intense showdown at the National Semifinal round of the NCAA Tournament, the top-seeded Pitt volleyball team faced off against fellow top-seed Louisville, ultimately falling 3-1 at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Despite an impressive performance by Olivia Babcock, who set a program record with 33 kills in a single NCAA tournament match, Pitt’s efforts were not enough to secure the win.
Babcock’s stellar performance came with a .391 hitting percentage, while teammate Torrey Stafford contributed significantly with a double-double, featuring 18 kills and 14 digs. Emmy Klika was also instrumental defensively, achieving a season-high of 21 digs.
The match was marked by a series of momentum shifts. Pitt started strong in the first set, taking an early lead and securing the set 25-21. However, the Cardinals rallied in the second set, winning it 25-23 after a tight exchange of points. The third set was a nail-biter, with Pitt leading 23-20 only to let it slip away, as Louisville claimed a 29-27 victory. The fourth set saw Louisville asserting control, ultimately winning 25-17 to seal the match.
While the loss is certainly disappointing for Pitt, particularly after such a remarkable individual performance from Babcock, this match illustrated their fighting spirit and the strong season they have had overall, finishing with a record of 33-2. The experience gained in high-pressure situations like these will be invaluable as the program looks ahead to future competitions.
In a sport where resilience and determination are key, Pitt’s strong effort against a tough opponent like Louisville sets a solid foundation for next season. With a talented roster and passionate players, there is much to be hopeful for in Pitt volleyball’s future endeavors.