Phillippi has more to prove as he gears up for the postseason, while Sanchez has everything yet to prove. Wrestling is looking to push forward, while softball waits to break through. The two teams are on opposite ends of the success spectrum, but that gap is bridged by star athletes with eyes toward more.

To quote HBO blockbuster “Game of Thrones”’ most famous father, Ned Stark, “Winter is coming.” The snow has already arrived and with it some seasonal Pitt athletics action. As the new season begins, these Panther athletes have already proven their value.

With the fall sports season approaching its final stretch, these three Pitt athletes have been crucial in helping their teams outperform expectations.

Edward Kizza and Kayla Lund wasted no time dazzling in respective season openers and will look to one-up All-ACC performances in 2018, while Deslin Alexandre tries to replace an All-conference performer on his own squad.

Xavier Johnson and Danielle Garven have helped out Pitt’s basketball teams in the early going, while Nika Markovic led the volleyball team to a strong regular-season finish.

Panther athletes Edward Kizza, Amaia Pena and Kayla Lund are all having standout seasons on the field and on the court, leading their respective teams.