University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Panthers Set to Open 2026 Season at AVCA First Serve
1/16/2026 11:00:00 AM | Volleyball
PITTSBURGH - The Panthers will play at the AVCA First Serve for the second straight year in Milwaukee, Wisc. at Fiserv Forum from Aug. 21-23. Matchups and network designations will be announced at a later date.
The tournament is comprised of eight elite teams including Arizona State, Kentucky, Louisville, SMU, Texas, Texas A&M and Wisconsin. Each of those eight teams were ranked in the top 12 of the final 2025 AVCA/TARAFLEX Division I Women's Volleyball Poll, and they all advanced to at least the Sweet Sixteen of last season's championship. Pitt, Kentucky, Texas A&M and Wisconsin were 2025 National Semifinal participants.
The general public sale will begin on Jan. 30. All tickets will be available at www.fiservforum.com.
The Panthers are coming off five straight National Semifinal appearances and four consecutive ACC Championships. Two-time AVCA National Player of the Year Olivia Babcock returns alongside starters Blaire Bayless, Marina Pezelj, Mallorie Meyer and Abbey Emch, and six talented newcomers will join the Panthers. The 2024 AVCA National Freshman of the Year Izzy Starck will also play her first match in a Pitt jersey at the tournament.
