Pittsburgh women’s coach, Tory Verdi, had a straightforward message for his team during a challenging second-half battle against SMU on Sunday. Despite facing a massive deficit at home, Verdi emphasized the importance of “fighting” to his players. In an incredible display of determination, the Panthers made history by staging an impressive comeback to defeat SMU 72-59. Mikayla Johnson and Khadija Faye led the charge with 22 and 21 points, respectively.
The remarkable 32-point turnaround equaled the NCAA Division I women’s basketball record set by Texas State in 2006. Verdi acknowledged that there were no magical words or plays at halftime, only a discussion about pride and a strategic plan to claw their way back into the game.
Trailing by 32 points in the first half and still down by 31 at halftime, Pittsburgh executed a remarkable 58-13 run to secure the victory. The Panthers struggled with their shooting early on, missing their first 10 shots and starting 2 for 20 from the field. SMU dominated the first quarter with a 32-7 lead, extending it to a 32-point advantage before halftime.
However, Pittsburgh’s resilience became evident in the third quarter when they outscored SMU 28-0. A series of key plays, including Johnson and Washenitz’s 3-pointers, brought the Panthers within striking distance. With a collective effort, Pitt erased the deficit and eventually took the lead for good in the fourth quarter.
Verdi commended his players for their extraordinary performance, emphasizing that they were the ones who made the comeback possible. The game’s statistics highlighted Pitt’s impressive shooting in the latter stages, contrasting sharply with SMU’s struggles to convert their chances.
In a display of grit and determination, Pittsburgh’s historic victory will be remembered as a testament to the team’s fighting spirit and unwavering resolve.
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