New faces with a new fire: The Pitt women’s basketball team is hunting for wins this season
Rebuilding with renewed energy
Staff writer Rithika Praturu previews the Pitt women’s basketball team as it prepares for a fresh start with a re-energized roster and ambitious goals for the season.
“If you want to be great, you come to the University of Pittsburgh.”
This motto captures head coach Tory Verdi’s recruiting philosophy. Now beginning his third season with the Panthers, Verdi aims to build on last year’s progress and open the 2025–26 season with momentum.
Momentum and progress
After 13 wins last season — the team’s best mark in recent years — Pitt is striving to transform its cultural growth into steady success on the court. Verdi continues to stress the importance of strong culture, player dedication, and the right mindset.
Fresh lineup and rising potential
- 10 new players join the team this season.
- 7 of them are first-years, complemented by multiple transfers.
- 4 returning players bring experience to balance the roster.
This refreshed lineup promises greater athleticism, adaptability, and technical skill — qualities Verdi said were previously lacking.
“Our roster is better today than it was the last few years,”
Verdi remarked at ACC Tipoff, expressing confidence in how far the team has come and the chemistry developing within the group.
Facing the ACC challenge
Competing in the demanding Atlantic Coast Conference, the Panthers know each matchup will test their growth. Yet, their deeper bench, renewed drive, and shared commitment to a strong culture give cause for optimism as they aim to convert potential into success on the scoreboard.
Author’s summary
Pitt women’s basketball enters the 2025–26 season with new players, fresh energy, and a unified culture under coach Tory Verdi, ready to turn progress into consistent performance.