Preview of Pitt’s non-fall sports

As the academic year begins, Pitt’s non-fall athletic programs are gearing up for their respective seasons, bringing anticipation and excitement to the student body and Pittsburgh community. Each sport plays a key role in shaping Pitt’s athletic identity, fostering competition and community engagement. 

Basketball

Basketball is prominent at Pitt, with the men’s and women’s programs contributing to the University’s athletic success. The men’s basketball team, a staple of the ACC, is known for its tough, defensive play. 

Head coach Jeff Capel is preparing to integrate new talent like first-year guard Brandin Cummings with veteran players like senior guard Ishmael Leggett to strengthen the team for the upcoming season. The goal is to build a competitive squad that can contend for an ACC title as Capel continues to build on the team’s strong defensive identity.

Similarly, the women’s basketball team, led by head coach Tory Verdi, is focused on improving its standing in the ACC. With a focus on teamwork, resilience and tactical play, the women’s program is laying the groundwork for long-term success. 

After finishing last season 8-24 with only two ACC wins in Verdi’s first season with the program, this year offers an opportunity to improve offensively and defensively. The Panthers hope to position themselves for a stronger run in nonconference and conference play.

Basketball at Pitt draws strong support from the student body, particularly with the “Oakland Zoo,” the raucous student section that makes the Petersen Events Center a challenging venue for visiting teams. With a renewed sense of optimism, both men’s and women’s basketball aim to energize the campus this season.

Swimming

Pitt’s swimming program has a history of producing elite athletes, and this season promises to build on that tradition. Competing in the ACC, one of the most competitive swimming conferences, the Pitt swimming teams regularly face top-tier competition.

Head coach Chase Kreitler, who is starting his third season with the Panthers, has infused new energy into the program, fostering a culture of hard work and accountability.

The season will kick off with invitational meets, allowing the team to gauge its progress early. As dual meets with ACC rivals approach, the team will have an opportunity to test its skills in preparation for the ACC Championships. With several swimmers likely to qualify for the NCAA Championships, the Panthers are eager to make a national impact.

What sets Pitt’s swimming program apart is its emphasis on balancing academic and athletic excellence. Many swimmers achieve academic honors, showcasing the University’s commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes — the Panthers had 15 Scholar All-American Selections in 2023-2024.

Baseball and softball

Though traditionally overshadowed by winter sports, baseball and softball are gaining attention at Pitt.

Pitt’s baseball team led by head coach Mike Bell is preparing for another challenging season. The team has made significant strides in recent years, with improved recruiting and facilities helping the Panthers contend with ACC powerhouses. 

This season’s focus is developing pitching depth and having consistent offensive production. Pitt baseball looks to build on past successes and continue its ascent in the conference standings.

Softball has steadily grown under head coach Jenny Allard. Like the baseball team, the softball program faces the challenge of competing against established ACC teams, but it has shown improvement each year. The team is focused on strong defense, timely hitting and making it to the ACC tournament this season after the Panthers failed to make the ACC Tournament last season.

Whether it’s the high-energy environment of basketball games at the Petersen Events Center or the more relaxed, outdoor atmosphere of baseball and softball games, Pitt athletics foster a sense of pride and belonging.