Amber Aniston • October 12, 2024

SMU Shocks No. 1 Pitt in Five-Set Thriller, Rebounds to Stay in Top 10

DALLAS – In an unforgettable match today, the SMU Mustangs stunned previously undefeated No. 1 Pittsburgh in a five-set showdown (19-25, 25-22, 13-25, 25-23, 15-9) at Moody Coliseum. Just days after suffering a sweep against the Panthers, SMU bounced back in spectacular fashion, delivering a performance that will likely push them into the top 10 national rankings.


A Remarkable Rebound for SMU

Coming off a tough loss to Pitt earlier in the week, the Mustangs were determined to show they could hang with the top team in the country. Pittsburgh came into today’s match having dropped just one set all season, but SMU made sure that stat changed.


After Pitt took the first set 25-19, the Mustangs regrouped and fired back in the second set, taking it 25-22. SMU’s defense, led by middle blocker Nnedi Okammor’s five block assists, slowed down Pitt’s normally unstoppable offense. By taking that second set, SMU became only the second team this season to win a set against the Panthers.


Pitt’s Response, SMU’s Resolve

Pitt came roaring back in the third set, dominating SMU 25-13. It appeared as though the Panthers had regained control, but the Mustangs were far from finished. In the fourth set, SMU raced out to a 9-3 lead, with Pitt managing to tie it at 12. The Mustangs kept their composure, holding off a late push to win the set 25-23 and force a decisive fifth set.


In the final set, SMU never let up. They jumped ahead 5-2 and kept the pressure on Pitt, extending the lead to 8-7. The Mustangs closed the match with a strong 5-1 run, with Natalie Foster delivering a critical ace to secure the 15-9 victory. The win gave SMU its second triumph over a top-two team this season, having beaten then-No. 2 Nebraska earlier this year.


Offensive and Defensive Balance Key for SMU

SMU’s ability to both attack and defend at a high level was evident throughout today’s match. On offense, Naya Shime led the way with 20 kills, finding openings in Pitt’s defense and capitalizing on key moments. Meanwhile, Natalie Foster contributed with five aces, including the game-winner. The Mustangs' versatility in offense kept Pitt off balance for much of the game, as they spread the ball around to multiple hitters, making it difficult for Pitt’s defense to predict their next move.


Defensively, Okammor’s presence at the net with her block assists and digs made it tough for Pitt to gain any momentum. SMU’s back-row defense was equally critical, with key digs preventing Pitt from closing out points. The Mustangs also benefited from timely rotations and effective communication on the court, helping them recover from the rough third set to take control in the later stages of the match.


SMU’s Rise in the Rankings

With today’s victory, SMU’s position in the national rankings is set to climb. The Mustangs, currently ranked No. 15, will likely jump into the top 10 after defeating Pitt, the previously unbeaten top team. This win moves SMU to 13-4 on the season and keeps them squarely in the race for the ACC title.


Naya Shime led SMU’s offense with 20 kills, while Natalie Foster contributed five aces, including the match-winner. The Mustangs once again proved their ability to handle high-pressure situations, showing resilience and skill in today’s five-set victory.


What’s Next for SMU?

After today’s thrilling win, SMU has firmly established itself as one of the top teams in the country. The Mustangs now turn their attention to their next big challenge, as they face No. 5 Stanford next week. With their confidence high and their roster performing at an elite level, SMU is ready for whatever comes next.


The team also has upcoming matches against ranked opponents such as Louisville and Florida State, which will further test their strength as they push for postseason success. If the Mustangs continue to build on their recent success, they could position themselves for a strong run in the NCAA tournament.


A Potential Postseason Threat

SMU’s ability to take down top-ranked teams this season has not only bolstered their ranking but also positioned them as a legitimate postseason contender. With wins over Nebraska and now Pittsburgh, SMU has shown they can go toe-to-toe with the best programs in the nation. As the team prepares for the final stretch of the season, they are gaining national attention and respect. This consistency against top competition could make them a dangerous team when the NCAA tournament rolls around, with a real shot at a deep run.


SMU’s Future Looks Bright

SMU’s victory today sets them on a solid path for the remainder of the season. Their depth, skill, and ability to bounce back after tough losses make them a team to watch. As they look forward to their next matchups, they have the opportunity to prove that today’s victory over Pitt wasn’t just an upset but a statement that they belong among the nation’s elite.

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