New Faces with a New Fire: Pitt Women's Basketball Season Preview
Staff writer Rithika Praturu previews the University of Pittsburgh women's basketball team as they embark on the 2025–26 season with fresh talent and renewed energy.
Building on Momentum
Head coach Tory Verdi enters his third season with the Panthers, motivated by the motto, “If you want to be great, you come to the University of Pittsburgh.” After finishing last season with 13 wins—the most in recent program history—Verdi aims to leverage that success to start this season strong.
A Revamped Lineup
This year, the roster features 10 new players, including seven first-year students and several transfers, alongside four returning athletes. The team now boasts greater athleticism, versatility, and skill—traits Verdi feels were lacking in previous years.
“Our roster is better today than it was the last few years,” Verdi said at ACC Tipoff, expressing confidence in the team's growth and chemistry.
Challenges and Optimism Ahead
Competing in the challenging ACC conference means every game will test the Panthers' progress. However, with a deeper bench, renewed energy, and a strong commitment to building the right culture, the team is optimistic about translating its potential into consistent success on the court.
Coach Verdi’s Vision
- Focus on strong culture and team buy-in
- Recruit new players with the right skills and mindset
- Develop chemistry quickly among a largely new roster
The key question for the Panthers this season will be how rapidly this new group can come together and turn their promise into wins.
Author's summary: Pitt's women's basketball team enters 2025–26 with fresh talent and a revitalized culture, poised to build on last year's record wins and aim for consistent success in the ACC.