Pitt women’s basketball has had a rollercoaster season so far, with Atlantic Coast Conference play proving particularly challenging. The Panthers started conference play with an 0-4 record, and by Sunday afternoon, they had lost three of their last eight games. An 0-5 start in the ACC can put a team in a tough spot, not only in the moment but for the rest of the season.
On Sunday, it seemed like Pitt was heading toward that 0-5 start, as they trailed visiting SMU by 32 points at one point, and the halftime deficit was 31. However, something clicked for the Panthers in the second half. They held SMU to zero points in the third quarter, setting an NCAA record. In fact, SMU made only two field goals in the second half. By the time the final buzzer sounded, Pitt had pulled off a stunning victory—by double digits.
This victory will go down in NCAA history as the largest comeback win in regulation. Head coach Tory Verdi shared a reassuring message with his team after the game.
“I told you anything is possible,” Verdi said.
Indeed, the Panthers, who had been counted out and even looked depleted at times, still managed to find a way to win.
Pitt junior Marley Washenitz reflected on the historic nature of the game, saying, “I think it’s awesome….
