Pitt Panthers volleyball just pulled a fast one. Jessica Smallwood, once a lock for Florida, is now a Pitt Panther. And just like that, the 2026 recruiting class just got even more stacked.
A Bold Move
Jessica Smallwood, the towering 6-foot-6 middle blocker from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, had originally committed to Florida back in June 2024. But with the legendary Mary Wise retiring from the Gators and Ryan Theis stepping in, Smallwood made the call to flip and join Pitt. That's a game-changer.
Smallwood isn't just a middle blocker; she's a versatile player who can also dominate as an outside hitter. For Pitt, this is like finding treasure at the end of a rainbow. They're coming off a season where they went 33-2, clinched their sixth ACC title in eight years, and nabbed the top seed in the NCAA Tournament. Adding Smallwood to the mix? That's just unfair.
The Class of 2026
With Smallwood on board, Pitt's 2026 class is looking downright scary. She's joining forces with Ayanna Watson and Trinity Thompson from Bishop Gorman High School, Izzy Masten from Tri-West Hendricks High, Isabella Hoppe from Pine-Richland High, and Lola Sageer from Liverpool High. This group is already being talked about as potentially the best recruiting class in the nation.
Smallwood will be one of four middle blockers for Pitt in 2026, joining Ryla Jones, Dalia Vîrlan, and Abbey Emch. It's a lineup that screams depth and power.
Future Looks Bright
Pitt's move to lock in Smallwood is not just smart; it's strategic. They're building for sustained dominance, and this isn't just about 2026. This is about creating a dynasty.
Let's be real. With their current momentum and this recruiting class, Pitt isn't just playing for ACC titles anymore. They're eyeing national championships. Jessica Smallwood's flip to Pitt? That's big time. That'll do it.
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Source: si.com
