The Pitt basketball program has awoken like a sleeping giant and with a win on Tuesday tied for first place in the ACC. Media outlets and reporters are beginning to pay the Panthers (16-7, 9-3 ACC) respect for their surprising season, taking the team off the bubble and on the path toward March Madness.
Winning meaningful games in January and February has energized the University and fellow programs, especially Pitt football. Pitt football has bought in as players including Marquis Williams and Rashad Battle have expressed their support. Head coach Pat Narduzzi has also helped guide enthusiasm for the basketball team.
Both defensive backs have been vocal leaders and supporters of Pitt basketball after the football season concluded. A junior from Atlanta, Georgia, Battle played in three games in 2022 before being injured and receiving a medical redshirt. Williams, a redshirt senior from Pompano beach, Florida, played in 12 games this season and intercepted two passes, both for touchdowns. He added three passes defended and a forced fumble in 2022 and owns five career interceptions in five seasons. He also supported the Pitt women’s basketball team Sunday against Virginia.
Pitt honored the football team’s 37-35 Sun Bowl victory against UCLA during the Miami game on Jan. 28. The trophy was on display for fans to take pictures and the team was honored at halftime. Pitt football finished No. 22 in the final AP Poll and USA Today Sports AFCA Coaches Poll following a 9-4 season and 5-3 mark in conference play, ending the season on a five-game winning streak.
Former Pitt star and current Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett supported the men’s basketball team at the Petersen Events Center on Jan. 25 against Wake Forest.
The Panthers return home Tuesday riding a three-game winning streak to face Louisville (3-20, 1-11 ACC). Pitt is 10-3 at home this season and 4-2 inside the Pete against ACC opponents.
