Pitt Women’s Volleyball Scrimmage & OSU vs Penn State Men’s Volleyball

PITTSBURGH – The University of Pittsburgh women’s volleyball program will hold an intrasquad scrimmage at the Fitzgerald Field House on Wednesday, March 25, offering fans an early look at the 2026 roster. The scrimmage, set to begin at 4 p.m., will be followed at 6 p.m. By a regular season contest between the Ohio State and Penn State men’s volleyball teams. Tickets, priced at $15, are general admission and will be available with doors opening at 3 p.m.

The intrasquad event provides a crucial opportunity for the Panthers to integrate several newcomers into the program. January enrollees Izzy Starck, a setter, Jordyn Dailey, a middle blocker, outside hitter Ayanna Watson, and Jessica Smallwood, a right side, will all be showcased. The scrimmage also allows fans to see eight returning members of the 2025 team that reached the NCAA National Semifinals.

The event’s timing, sandwiched between the Pitt intrasquad and the men’s collegiate match, highlights the growing prominence of volleyball within the Pittsburgh athletic landscape. The presence of established men’s programs like Ohio State and Penn State further underscores the region’s commitment to the sport. Both the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions boast impressive volleyball pedigrees, having combined for five national championships – Ohio State with three titles and Penn State with two.

Pitt’s 2025 semifinal run, ultimately ending short of a championship title, established the program as a consistent national contender. The addition of highly-touted recruits like Starck, Dailey, Watson, and Smallwood signals the program’s intent to remain at that level. Starck, in particular, arrives with significant accolades, having been named the AVCA National Freshman of the Year and a second-team All-American while playing for Penn State in 2025. Her transfer to Pitt adds a dynamic element to the Panthers’ offensive strategy.

The upcoming men’s volleyball match between Ohio State and Penn State adds another layer of intrigue to the event. No. 11 Ohio State (6-3, 1-0 MIVA) and No. 15 Penn State (6-4, 0-0 EIVA) represent two of the most competitive programs in men’s collegiate volleyball. Their rivalry is well-documented, and a matchup at the Fitzgerald Field House promises a high-level contest for fans in attendance.

Beyond the on-court action, the scrimmage and subsequent match offer a valuable opportunity for Pitt Athletics to engage with the local community. The $15 ticket price makes the event accessible to a wide range of fans, fostering a sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming 2026 volleyball season. The event also provides a platform to showcase the university’s athletic facilities and commitment to providing a top-tier experience for both athletes and spectators.

Looking ahead, Pitt is slated to open its 2026 season against Kentucky at the AVCA First Serve event. This early-season test against a strong SEC opponent will provide a significant measuring stick for the Panthers as they navigate a challenging schedule. The intrasquad scrimmage on March 25 serves as a crucial first step in preparing for that challenge, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate player combinations and refine strategies before the start of official competition.

The Panthers’ recent success, coupled with the influx of talented recruits, positions them as a team to watch in the 2026 season. The intrasquad scrimmage offers a glimpse into the future of Pitt volleyball, and the subsequent match between Ohio State and Penn State promises an evening of compelling collegiate action. The event represents a celebration of the sport and a testament to the growing volleyball community in Pittsburgh.

Adding to the program’s recent accolades, Olivia Babcock was named the Back-to-Back Honda Award Winner for Volleyball, further solidifying Pitt’s position as a national powerhouse. The program’s continued success is also reflected in the recent addition of Maaike Heilig to the 2026 roster, signaling a commitment to sustained excellence.