Now is the time to unveil our 2023 Best of 2023 list, a look back at an ordinary year.
But there was no “best of 2023” in the Pittsburgh sports world. All the major sports teams were rotten. Everything seems to be pointing in the wrong direction.
The Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and Pitt football were under .500 in a combined 20 games in 2023. The Steelers were over .500 in three games, their best record. The only thing that attracts you is being stuck in the middle of the mush.
None of these teams played a postseason game. None of the players on these teams won his MVP or did anything truly special. Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was named first-team All-Pro. It was the highest honor earned.
Pitt men’s basketball had a strong start this season, reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament and getting off to a 9-3 start. But does college basketball really matter in Pittsburgh?
The Riverhounds finished in first place in the conference, but lost in the first round of the playoffs. I love Riverhound. Although it was AAA soccer, the Hounds defeated eventual MLS champion Columbus in the U.S. Open Cup.
Pitt women’s volleyball is the best sport in town, confirming that there aren’t many best. Pitt advanced to the NCAA Final Four. It’s been a great season, but can you name one Pitt women’s volleyball player?
It’s hard to even think of just one standout moment or stretch from this city’s leading teams and athletes.
The Pirates had a hot April. Andrew McCutchen is back.
Kris Letang had six assists in the game and five in the period.
George Pickens had a great performance in the Steelers’ most recent game against Cincinnati, but that was after quitting on a play the week before. There were times this year when Kenny Pickett didn’t stink.
The much-maligned Matt Canada was fired from his job as the Steelers’ offensive coordinator. Could it have been the biggest moment for Pittsburgh sports in 2023? Despite the hype, the Great Devil’s dismissal didn’t really change much.
2024 could be even better if the Steelers can acquire Russell Wilson. Or trade Mike Tomlin.
At least we still have Sidney Crosby. It’s still epic.
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Mark Madden’s Column | Penguins/NHL | Pirates/MLB | Pitt | Sports | Steelers/NFL