Tennessee softball is gearing up for an exciting return to Oklahoma City, marking an important milestone in their impressive season.
The No. 7 seed Lady Vols, boasting a record of 45-15, clinched their spot in the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) after a thrilling 1-0 victory in Game 3 of the NCAA super regionals against Nebraska, who finished the season at 43-15. This achievement represents not only a return to Oklahoma City but also the ninth time in program history that Tennessee has reached the WCWS, with this being their second appearance in just three seasons.
Expectations for the Tournament
In their tournament opener, Tennessee will face off against the formidable No. 2 seed Oklahoma, who enters the tournament with a stellar 50-7 record. The match is scheduled for May 29, although the exact game times and broadcast details are yet to be confirmed. Last year, Tennessee made a significant run to the semifinal in Oklahoma City before being eliminated, leaving them hungry for redemption this time around.
Key Moments Leading to the WCWS
Throughout the season, the Lady Vols showcased their prowess in a series against Oklahoma during SEC play. They started strong, winning a nail-biting Game 1 with a score of 5-2, then faced adversity in Game 2, losing 4-1. However, their determination shone through as they secured the series with a final 5-3 victory in Game 3, solidifying their capability to contend with elite teams.
Star Performers and Standout Performances
Central to Tennessee’s recent success has been their stellar pitching, particularly from Karlyn Pickens, who has been named SEC Pitcher of the Year for two consecutive seasons. In the decisive super regional game against Nebraska, Pickens delivered a remarkable performance, achieving a complete game shutout with an impressive tally of 10 strikeouts while allowing only two hits—all while showcasing her ability to dominate under pressure. It took until the fifth inning for the Nebraska team to register a runner on the bases, illustrating Pickens’ command on the mound.
Offensively, Ella Dodge has proven to be a game-changer for the Lady Vols. In the super regionals, she made history by becoming only the second player ever to hit multiple home runs against Nebraska’s ace, Jordy Bahl. Dodge’s solo home run in the first inning not only opened the scoring for Tennessee but also turned out to be the game-winner, following her impressive two-run homer in Game 2.
Facing the Competition
As the Lady Vols prepare to face Oklahoma, they are aware of the challenge that lies ahead. The Sooners advanced to the WCWS after sweeping No. 15 seed Alabama 2-0 in their super regional series. The anticipation for this opening matchup is palpable, and both teams will be looking to establish dominance early on in the tournament.
How to Catch the Action
Fans eager to support the Lady Vols can catch the game against Oklahoma at 2:30 p.m. ET on May 29, broadcast live on ESPN. This matchup promises to deliver thrilling moments, showcasing the talent and determination of these elite collegiate athletes. For those unable to catch it live, a free trial option on Fubo TV is available, allowing fans to tune into the action from the comfort of their own homes.
Cora Hall is dedicated to covering University of Tennessee women’s athletics. For insights and updates, email her at cora.hall@knoxnews.com, and follow her on X @corahalll. Enjoy Cora’s thorough coverage? Consider a digital subscription for complete access to her work.
