Oklahoma City -- In an exciting matchup at the Women's College World Series, the Texas Longhorns triumphed over the Tennessee Volunteers with a score of 2-0 on Monday, securing their spot in the championship series for the third time in four years. The standout performance came from Katie Stewart, who hit a crucial home run, and the dynamic pitching duo of Mac Morgan and Teagan Kavan, who combined for a remarkable three-hitter.
In a standout display of skill, Kavan, who had previously thrown a complete game with eight strikeouts in Saturday's semifinal victory over Oklahoma, entered the game in relief for Morgan in the fifth inning. She showcased her talent by not allowing a hit for the remainder of the game, striking out Tennessee's Emma Clarke to seal the victory. This performance underscores Texas' strong pitching depth as they advance with a record of 54-11.
The Longhorns are set to face either Oklahoma or Texas Tech in the highly anticipated best-of-three championship series, commencing on Wednesday. The outcome of the other semifinal, which took place on Monday night, will determine their opponent. Texas has faced Oklahoma in previous championship series in both 2024 and 2022, experiencing defeats in both contests.
On the mound for Tennessee, Karlyn Pickens, a National Fastpitch Coaches Association first-team All-American, allowed just one earned run on five hits while striking out nine batters. Despite Texas loading the bases in the third inning with only one out, they were unable to capitalize, with Reese Atwood striking out and Joley Mitchell popping out to the catcher, ending the inning without scoring.
Tempers flared in the top of the fourth when Tennessee hitting coach Craig Snider, a former Texas Tech head coach, was ejected after a heated exchange with the Texas dugout. Shortly after this incident, Katie Stewart launched a high drive home run off Pickens, sending the ball over the left field fence, just out of the reach of Alannah Leach. Although Pickens quickly regrouped, striking out the next three batters she faced, the damage was done.
Mac Morgan earned the win for Texas, striking out four and walking one batter. The Longhorns further extended their lead in the sixth inning when a throwing error by Tennessee’s third baseman, Taylor Pannell, allowed an insurance run to score. As they gear up for the championship series, Texas has proven to be a formidable force in this year's Women's College World Series.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
