New Faces Ignite a Fresh Drive for Pitt Women's Basketball
Staff writer Rithika Praturu previews the upcoming season for the University of Pittsburgh’s women’s basketball team, highlighting changes and ambitions for 2025–26.
Coach Tory Verdi's Vision and Recruiting Philosophy
"If you want to be great, you come to the University of Pittsburgh."
This motto underpins head coach Tory Verdi’s approach as he enters his third season leading the Panthers. After achieving 13 wins last year — the highest in recent program history — Verdi is determined to build on that momentum and start the new season strong.
Transforming Team Culture and Roster
Verdi has focused on cultivating a strong team culture and securing the right players who buy into this vision. Reflecting this strategy, the 2025–26 roster features 10 new players, including seven freshmen, several transfers, and four returning athletes.
The revamped lineup boasts enhanced athleticism, versatility, and skill—qualities that Verdi noted were lacking in previous seasons.
"Our roster is better today than it was the last few years,"
Verdi expressed confidence during the ACC Tipoff event, emphasizing the team’s growth and improved chemistry.
Challenges Ahead in the ACC
Competing in the highly competitive ACC conference, the Panthers anticipate every game will be a test of their progress. However, their renewed energy, a deeper bench, and commitment to culture provide a foundation for optimism.
Season Outlook
The key question as the season begins is how quickly this fresh group of players can gel and turn their potential into measurable success on the court.
“If you want to be great, you come to the University of Pittsburgh.”
Author’s summary: The Pitt women’s basketball team starts the 2025–26 season energized with new talent and a strong culture, poised to build on recent successes and achieve consistency in a tough ACC conference.