For most athletes who actually make it to the professional level, like former Pitt tennis player and 2017 graduate Audrey Ann Blakely, the journey is mentally arduous and financially uncertain.

With 15 varsity sports, it is expected that some Pitt alums go on to become professional athletes. While some, like former Pitt football player James Conner, are more well known, there are still Panthers from all different sports performing at the professional level.