The Petersen Events Center was buzzing with excitement as the No. 1 Pitt Panthers volleyball team faced off against their in-state rivals, the No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions, in a highly anticipated clash between two undefeated teams. The matchup, which aired live on ACC Network, was not just a battle for Keystone Classic supremacy but also a chance for both teams to prove their worth as the top contenders in the nation.
The Panthers, coming off a dominant stretch of 21 straight sets won to open the season, looked unstoppable against the Nittany Lions. They ultimately dismantled Penn State in three straight sets, 25-15, 25-19, and 25-18. The Panthers not only secured their seventh victory of the season but also set a new Pitt volleyball attendance record, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 11,800 fans to the Petersen Events Center.
The match started with a flourish for Pitt, as they quickly jumped out to a 4-0 lead. After two straight net violations by the Nittany Lions, Valeria Vazquez Gomez, a standout senior, landed a powerful ace. Olivia Babcock, the reigning AVCA National Freshman of the Year, followed with a decisive kill to give the Panthers early momentum. Penn State struggled to find their footing in the first set, failing to string together even two points until Pitt had already established a commanding 14-6 lead. Pitt's dominance was evident in their near-flawless execution, committing only two attack errors and hitting an impressive .429 in the first set.
Penn State, known for their resilience, showed signs of life in the second set. They even managed to take their first lead of the match at 8-7. However, Pitt, fueled by the unwavering support of the home crowd, quickly regained control. A series of decisive plays, including three kills and a pair of blocks by Olivia Babcock, propelled them to a 14-11 lead. The Nittany Lions battled back, twice pulling within one point at 17-16 and 18-17, but Pitt held their nerve. Torrey Stafford, a sophomore outside hitter, delivered two crucial kills, and Rachel Fairbanks, the senior setter, served a decisive ace to secure the win.
The third set saw a similar script unfold. Pitt, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess, went on runs of 5-0 and 6-0 to establish a significant lead. Penn State, refusing to go down without a fight, launched a 6-0 run of their own after falling behind 18-8. However, Pitt, led by the impressive play of Torrey Stafford who contributed three straight kills, found their rhythm once again. The Panthers ultimately closed out the set and the match, completing a dominant performance against their in-state rivals.
The Panthers, now 7-0, are poised for continued success. Their impressive start, highlighted by their impressive set winning streak that has now reached 21, positions them as a formidable force in the NCAA volleyball landscape. They remain the only team in Division I volleyball yet to drop a set this season. Pitt, riding the wave of their electrifying victory, will now turn their attention to their next challenge, aiming to solidify their status as a national powerhouse.
A Look Back at the Rivalry's History
The rivalry between Pitt and Penn State has a long and storied history, dating back to 1977. The Nittany Lions have historically dominated the series, holding a 33-19 edge. However, Pitt has enjoyed recent success, winning two of the last three meetings, including a decisive victory in the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2021.
The 2021 NCAA Tournament Matchup
The 2021 NCAA Tournament matchup was a defining moment for the Pitt volleyball program. The Panthers, showcasing their incredible talent and unwavering determination, defeated Penn State in a thrilling match at the Petersen Events Center. Rachel Fairbanks, a senior setter, spearheaded the victory, delivering a double-double with 27 assists, 12 digs, and five kills.
The Impact of the Win on Pitt's National Profile
The victory over Penn State served as a significant boost to the Panthers' national profile. The team, under the guidance of head coach Dan Fisher, had already established themselves as a top-tier program, with back-to-back ACC championships and three consecutive Final Four appearances. However, the win over their in-state rivals, who are also a national powerhouse, provided further evidence of their prowess.
Beyond the Court: The Panthers' Impact on the Pittsburgh Community
The Pitt volleyball team's success has transcended the court, resonating throughout the Pittsburgh community. The Panthers, known for their athleticism, sportsmanship, and commitment to excellence, have become a source of inspiration for fans of all ages. Their passion for the game and their dedication to their craft have fostered a strong sense of pride and unity within the community.
Looking Ahead: The Panthers' Unwavering Pursuit of Excellence
As the Panthers celebrate their latest triumph, they remain focused on their ultimate goal: winning a national championship. The team, brimming with talent and experience, is determined to continue their ascent to the top of the college volleyball landscape. With their relentless work ethic, unwavering confidence, and the unwavering support of their fans, the Pitt volleyball program is poised for a truly special season.
Pitt Football Rallies Behind the Volleyball Team
The rivalry between Pitt and Penn State extends beyond the volleyball court. The Pitt football team, under the leadership of head coach Pat Narduzzi, has also made its presence known in the rivalry. Pitt's redshirt freshman quarterback, Eli Holstein, echoed the sentiment of the entire team when he expressed his admiration for the volleyball program and their dominance. He also announced that the entire football team would be in attendance for the match, eager to cheer on their fellow Panthers. Holstein, a rising star in the sport, highlighted the volleyball program's success as inspiration for the football team, demonstrating the strong sense of unity and pride that exists within the Pitt athletic community.
A Night to Remember
The match between Pitt and Penn State was not just a volleyball game; it was a celebration of the sport, the rivalry, and the spirit of the Pittsburgh community. The record-breaking crowd, the passionate atmosphere, and the dominant performance by the Panthers created a night that will be remembered for years to come. The rivalry between these two teams is sure to continue to captivate fans for years to come.
