Pitt volleyball and UMBC are becoming familiar postseason acquaintances. The programs have met four times in the last five years, dating back to a first-round matchup in 2021, with two regular-season meetings at Fitzgerald Field House mixed in. The not-quite rivalry resurfaced Friday to open the 2025 NCAA Tournament at Petersen Events Center.

Retrievers coach Kasey Crider knew his team entered as clear underdogs, but the mutual respect — and competitiveness — between the programs never wavered. Still, the Panthers showed why they’re one of the sport’s juggernauts, rolling to a 3-0 sweep (25-10, 25-17, 25-13) and punching their ticket to the second round.

Despite the lopsided nature of the matchup, sophomore star Olivia Babcock valued the way Pitt set the tone early.

“It's really good ju

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