The 2024 NCAA Softball Tournament is about to kick off. The Sunshine State is shining bright in this year’s NCAA Softball Tournament, boasting an impressive lineup of five teams ready to showcase their talent on the national stage. With perennial powerhouse No. 4 Florida leading the charge, alongside formidable contenders like No. 15 Florida State, Florida Atlantic, Florida Gulf Coast (FGCU), and Central Florida (UCF),

Texas is the No. 1 overall seed. In a move that surprises absolutely no one, the SEC swoops in with a whopping eight of the top sixteen seeds, practically monopolizing the tournament and hosting half the regionals. But hey, let’s not dwell on the cozy relationship between the SEC and ESPN, the exclusive broadcaster of every game. We’re sure it’s all just a coincidence, right? Now, onto the real head-scratcher of the lineup: Alabama snagging a hosting spot despite a lackluster 33-17 season and a non-conference schedule that’s about as intimidating as a kitten with a squeaky toy. With just one series win against the SEC under their belt, the Crimson Tide’s hosting status raises more questions than a math test after an all-night cram session. Despite the eyebrow-raising decisions and predictable dominance, we’re in for a tournament that promises thrills, spills, and maybe even a few surprises along the way. So buckle up, softball fans, as we dissect each regional and prepare for the rollercoaster ride that is the NCAA Softball Tournament.

Austin Regional Breakdown: The Longhorns’ Den

Friday, May 17

No. 1 overall seed Texas vs. Siena at 4 p.m. on Longhorn Network
Northwestern vs. Saint Francis (Pa.) at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

Welcome to the Austin Regional, where the Texas Longhorns are the number one seed, ready to defend their home turf like never before. With a staggering 23-2 record at home in 2024, the Longhorns are poised to make a statement and show why they deserve the top spot in the tournament.

Reese Atwood is leading the charge for Texas, boasting an impressive batting average of .427. And let’s not forget about Citlaly Gutierrez and her ERA of .157. Texas has shown it has the arms and the bats to compete with and beat anyone.

Texas won’t be without its challenges as Northwestern enters the fray. With three consecutive Big Ten regular season titles, the Wildcats are no stranger to success. Led by Big Ten Pitcher of the Year Ashley Miller and Coach of the Year Kate Drohan, Northwestern is will be the team to watch as a possible spoiler for the top seed in the tournament.

Prediction: Based on their performance all season, Texas’s offensive power, strong defense, and pitching will help them advance to the Supers.

Norman Regional Showdown: Oklahoma’s Quest for Greatness

Friday, May 17

Oregon vs. Boston University at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 2 overall seed Oklahoma vs. Cleveland State at 8 p.m. on ESPNU

All eyes are on the Oklahoma Sooners, looking for their fourth consecutive national title.

As the number two seed in the tournament, Oklahoma comes in hot. It boasts an impressive streak of 17 consecutive years as a national seed and 13 consecutive years of hosting, a testament to its unparalleled consistency and excellence. With a lineup stacked with talent and arms that could make even the most seasoned batters tremble, the Sooners are undoubtedly one of the teams to beat. They also appear to be peaking at the right time, looking strong on the Big 12 tournament.

Oregon should provide the Sooners with a good challenge, led by head coach Melyssa Lombardi, who spent an impressive 21 seasons with the Sooners before taking the reins of the Ducks. With Lombardi’s intimate knowledge of Oklahoma’s playbook and strategy, Oregon poses a formidable threat to the reigning champions.

Let’s not overlook the regional underdogs, the Boston Terriers, whose remarkable 52-4-1 record and Patriot League titles make them a force to be reckoned with. With an NCAA-best 38-game unbeaten streak under their belts, Boston is determined to shake up the tournament and prove they won’t be underestimated.

Prediction: Oklahoma asserts its dominance in the Norman Regional, punching its ticket to the Super Regionals and solidifying its status as the team to beat in pursuit of its fourth straight national title. With that said, this is not the easiest of draws. Boston Ace Kasey Ricard is having a season posting a 1.20 ERA with 260 strikeouts and will be an interesting matchup with the powerful Sooner line-up if they meet.

Knoxville Regional Clash: Lady Vols Lead the Charge

Friday, May 17

Virginia vs. Miami (Ohio) at Noon on ESPN-plus
No. 3 overall seed Tennessee vs. Dayton at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

Welcome to the Knoxville Regional, where the Tennessee Lady Vols hosts for the 19th consecutive season. With a storied history and a powerhouse lineup, Tennessee enters with all eyes on the prize.

Fresh off back-to-back SEC regular season titles, the Lady Vols are firing on all cylinders, eager to showcase their dominance on the national stage. Spearheading their charge is sophomore sensation Karlyn Pickens, who snagged the league’s pitcher of the year honors, joining the illustrious ranks of Monica Abbott—a name synonymous with softball greatness in Knoxville.

But the road to glory won’t be without its challenges, as Virginia arrives on the scene with a chip on their shoulder and a hunger for redemption. Finishing fourth in the ACC standings, they are riding high on their highest finish in over a decade, fueled by a roster stacked with All-ACC talent, including first-team standouts Eden Bigham and Jade Hylton.

Prediction: Tennessee rises to the occasion in the Knoxville Regional, overcoming any obstacles in its path to secure a decisive victory and advance to the next round, with its sights set on Oklahoma City. The Vols have the arms to take them a long way, consistency at the plate will be key in how far they gon in 2024.

Gainesville Regional Rumble: Gators, Owls, and Eagles, Oh My!

Friday, May 17

No. 4 overall seed Florida vs. Florida Gulf Coast at Noon on SEC Network
South Alabama vs. Florida Atlantic at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

Get ready for a showdown in the Sunshine State as the Gainesville Regional promises to deliver some excitement. The Florida Gators are hosting an NCAA Regional for the 18th time at the iconic Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium. With an impressive track record of Top 5 seeds in the NCAA Tournament—14 seasons running—and their fourth selection as the No. 4 national seed, the Gators are primed to unleash their explosive offense and showcase the talent of their formidable freshman arms.

But don’t count out the underdogs just yet. Florida Atlantic (FAU) enters with a remarkable season under their belts, boasting a stellar 41-14 record and co-champions of the American Athletic Conference. With six All-Conference players on their roster and AAC rookie of the year Kiley Channel leading the charge, the Owls are hungry to prove they can get the big win.

And let’s not forget about the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles (FGCU) and South Alabama Jaguars (USA), both ready to shake up the tournament with their own brand of softball.

Prediction: While the competition will be fierce, the Florida Gators will ultimately emerge in the Gainesville Regional, fueled by their explosive offense and unwavering determination to dominate their home turf again. Keep a close eye on this region; Florida has young arms, great arms, but young. Sklar Wallace has been fire for the Gators, but FAU has played very good softball all season. We are not predicting an upset, Florida should take care of business, but we also would not be floored if FAU makes it interesting.

Stillwater Regional Breakdown: Cowgirls, Wildcats, Wolverines, and Bears

Friday, May 17

Kentucky vs. Michigan at 3 p.m. on ESPN2
No. 5 overall seed Oklahoma State vs. Northern Colorado at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

Prepare for a showdown in the heart of Oklahoma as the Stillwater Regional promises to be a clash of titans. The Oklahoma State Cowgirls have secured the right to host an NCAA Regional for the fifth consecutive season. With an impressive streak of four straight seasons as a top-eight national seed and a history of Women’s College World Series appearances, the Cowgirls are a force to be reckoned with. This year’s No. 5 national seed matches the program’s best in history.

Kentucky comes in with a solid 30-22 record and an impressive tally of 10 “quad 1” wins under their belt. The Wildcats are no strangers to high-stakes softball and are determined to make their mark on the regional stage.

Michigan is another team to watch out for, making its 30th NCAA Tournament appearance. Fresh off a Big Ten Tournament championship win, the Wolverines are hungry to return to NCAA play and showcase their dominance once again. Despite playing on the road, Michigan boasts an impressive track record in regional play, with 18 regional titles to their name and a formidable 88-23 all-time record in the NCAA Regional round.

Prediction: While the competition will be fierce, the Oklahoma State Cowgirls ultimately emerge from the Stillwater Regional, fueled by their home-field advantage and a relentless pursuit of excellence that propels them one step closer to Women’s College World Series glory. Also, it should be noted that Oklahoma State is the only team in the country to win series against both No. 1 Texas and No. 2 Oklahoma this season, which, in our option, should have got them the three or four seed.

Los Angeles Regional Showdown: Bruins, Hokies, Aztecs, and Lopes

Friday, May 17

Virginia Tech vs. San Diego State at 6 p.m. on ESPNU
No. 6 overall seed UCLA vs. Grand Canyon at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN-plu

The Los Angeles Regional promises to deliver. Leading the charge is the No. 6 UCLA Bruins, boasting an impressive NCAA postseason record dating back to 1982. Under the guidance of head coach Kelly Inouye-Perez, the Bruins have clinched two national championships and possess a postseason record that speaks volumes about their dominance on the diamond. Raise your hand if you recall what happened when the Bruins faced Grand Canyon in the first game last year.

But don’t count out Virginia Tech, entering with a wealth of postseason experience and securing its fifth straight NCAA appearance. With an impressive 11-5 record in regional play and a familiarity with UCLA’s campus, the Hokies are poised to make their mark.

Grand Canyon is on a mission to make noise and build upon its third consecutive Los Angeles Regional appearance. With a record-setting season and an impressive .813 winning percentage, the Lopes are primed to turn heads, make their mark on the postseason, and maybe pull off the big upset for the second straight year. They are better, on paper at least, than they were a year ago and should make things interesting from the start!

Prediction: Although UCLA comes in on an eight-game winning streak, they may have their hands full. We will have them move on, but we suggest you keep an eye on this. Things could get interesting in Los Angeles.

Columbia Regional Battle: Tigers, Huskies, Mavericks, and Hoosiers

Friday, May 17

Washington vs. Indiana at 3 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 7 seed Missouri vs. Omaha at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN-pluss

The Columbia Regional promises to deliver on the action. Leading the charge is the host team, the No. 7 seed Missouri Tigers, boasting an impressive streak of 17 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. With a total of 27 regional appearances under their belt, the Tigers are no strangers to postseason pressure and will be gunning for their seventh trip to the Women’s College World Series.

But standing in their way are Omaha, Washington, and Indiana, each eager to upset the status. For the Washington Huskies, this marks their first NCAA Regional road trip in six years—a departure from their usual hosting duties. The Huskies are a force with a talented roster boasting seven players earning eight all-conference honors. The issue with the Huskies is they have lost five of the last six games.

Prediction: The Missouri Tigers emerge in the Columbia Regional. They have played great softball as of late, quietly put together a 43-15 record, and shown they can play with anyone in the country. We do not see that changing this weekend.

Stanford Regional Showdown: Cardinal, Gaels, Titans, and Bulldogs

Friday, May 17

Mississippi State vs. Cal State Fullerton at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 8 seed Stanford vs. Saint Mary’s at 10 p.m. on ESPN2

The Stanford Regional is set. The No. 8 seed Stanford Cardinals boast an impressive postseason record and a streak of five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. With a strong lineup, one of the best pitchers in the country, and a recent trip to the Women’s College World Series under their belt, the Cardinals are poised to make another deep postseason run.

Mississippi State is coming off its best conference finish in recent memory and armed with a trio of All-SEC selections. With a school-record 14 ranked wins and an impressive 33-win regular season, the Bulldogs are determined to make their mark and prove they belong among the nation’s elite.

Prediction: While Mississippi has had a great year, the Stanford Cardinals ultimately came out on top; their pitching is too strong and will help them to return to the Women’s College World Series.

Baton Rouge Regional Battle: Tigers, Bears, Tigers, and Salukis

Friday, May 17

California vs. Southern Illinois at 3 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 9 overall seed LSU vs. Jackson State at 6 p.m. on SEC Network

The Baton Rouge Regional promises to deliver. The LSU Tigers, the no. 9 seed, is hosting an NCAA Tournament Regional for the eighth time in the last nine years. With an impressive track record of NCAA postseason appearances and six Women’s College World Series appearances, the Tigers are no strangers to the pressure of postseason play.

But standing in their way are Cal, Jackson State, and Southern Illinois. Cal enters with one of the most explosive offenses in the country, leading the conference in home runs, doubles, and extra-base hits. With a history of NCAA Super Regional appearances and a hunger for postseason success, the Bears are determined to make a deep run in the tournament.

Prediction: While the competition will be fierce, the LSU Tigers will ultimately win this Region. With that said, both Southern Illinois and Cal would not be a huge shock if they pulled out some magic. Cal has an explosive offense, and Southern Illinois has a strong freshman arm in Maddia Groff.

Durham Regional Showdown: Blue Devils, Gamecocks, Utes, and Bears

Friday, May 17

South Carolina vs. Utah at Noon on ESPN-plus
No. 10 overall seed Duke vs. Morgan State at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

The stage is set in Durham as the No. 10 seed Duke Blue Devils prepare to host an NCAA Regional. Fresh off their ACC Championship victory, the Blue Devils enter the tournament with momentum on their side, fueled by the individual accolades of seniors Claire Davidson and Jala Wright, among others. With an impressive track record of All-Tournament team selections and a potent lineup, Duke is ready.

Standing in their way are South Carolina, Utah, and Morgan State. South Carolina, making its 24th all-time NCAA tournament appearance, boasts a history of success under head coach Beverly Smith and has already taken down nine nationally-ranked opponents this season. With momentum from their SEC Tournament run, the Gamecocks are determined to turn heads and prove they belong among the nation’s elite.

Meanwhile, Utah enters with back-to-back appearances in the NCAA Tournament, hungry to build upon their recent success and make a deep postseason run. The Utes are poised to make noise with a potent lineup and a history of tournament bids.

Prediction: Duke is in the driver’s seat here. They are probably three to four spots more than they should be. They have a stronger case to be in the top eight than a few others. Utah appears to be the biggest threat, in our opinion.

Athens Regional Rumble: Bulldogs, Flames, 49ers, and Seahawks

Friday, May 17

Charlotte vs. Liberty at 3 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 11 overall seed Georgia vs. UNC-Wilmington at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

The heat is on in Athens as the No. 11 seed Georgia Bulldogs gear up to host an NCAA Regional. With an impressive streak of 22 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and a history of success under head coach Tony Baldwin, the Bulldogs are no strangers to the pressure of postseason play. Boasting an 80-45 all-time record in the NCAA Tournament and recent Women’s College World Series trips, Georgia enters the tournament with confidence and determination.

But the competition is there, with Liberty, Charlotte, and UNCW all hungry to advance. Liberty comes in as the Conference USA regular-season and tournament champions, boasting an impressive 36-23 record and a never-say-die attitude that has propelled them to victory repeatedly. With a knack for come-from-behind wins and a championship pedigree, the Lady Flames are poised to make noise and challenge for regional supremacy.

Prediction: Liberty loves playing the underdog and spoiler role, but Georgia should pull through in this one.

Fayetteville Regional Faceoff: Razorbacks, Redhawks, Wildcats, and Wildcats

Friday, May 17

Arizona vs. Villanova at 6 p.m. on ESPN-plus
No. 12 overall seed Arkansas vs. Southeast Missouri State at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

The No. 12 seed Arkansas Razorbacks prepare to host an NCAA Regional. With an impressive streak of four consecutive seasons hosting a regional and a total of 13 appearances in the NCAA Tournament, the Razorbacks are no strangers to postseason play under the guidance of head Coach Courtney Deifel.

Arizona, boasting one of the most dominant offenses in the nation, poses a significant threat with its powerhouse lineup and stellar defense. Led by freshman sensation Regan Shockey, the Wildcats are in good order, ranking first in the Pac-12 in batting average, hits, RBI, and runs scored. Arkansas and Arizona split earlier this season, setting up what should be a great regional.

Prediction: We are marking this as an upset and going with Arizona. Their bats will be the difference. The Razorbacks have solid pitching, we just think the Wildcats get the better of them.

Lafayette Regional Battle: Ragin’ Cajuns, Tigers, Rebels, and Bears

Friday, May 17

No. 13 overall seed Louisiana vs. Princeton at 5:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus
Baylor vs. Ole Miss at 8 p.m. on ESPN2

The No. 13 seed Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns gear up to host an NCAA Regional. Boasting an impressive streak of five Sun Belt championships and an unparalleled record of 40-plus wins for the 25th straight season, the Ragin’ Cajuns are no strangers to success and appear ready to make their run to Oklahoma City.

Baylor swept its last three conference series and won 10 of 11 games before falling to the top-seeded Longhorns in the Big 12 Championship semifinals. A key player in this late surge was Aliyah Binford (12-10, 3.29 ERA, 142 strikeouts), who secured six of the last nine conference wins and hit .481 (13-of-27) with her first homer of the season over the last 11 games.

Prediction: The Cajuns are the favorite to come out of this region, but we are going against the grain here and picking Baylor to advance to the Super Regional.

Tuscaloosa Regional Rumble: Crimson Tide, Tigers, Lions, and Spartans

Friday, May 17

Clemson vs. Southeastern Louisiana at 2 p.m. on ACC Network
No. 14 overall seed Alabama vs. USC Upstate at 4:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

The No. 14 seed Alabama Crimson Tide gets set to host an NCAA Regional, although some think this should not have been the case. With an impressive streak of NCAA Tournament appearances dating back to 1999 under the leadership of head coach Patrick Murphy, the Crimson Tide are seasoned vets when it comes to NCAA regionals.

The Tigers are coming off the ACC Tournament, where they defeated Virginia 8-1 in the quarterfinals before narrowly losing to top-seeded Duke 4-3 in 10 innings in the semifinals.

Prediction: Alabama comes in having lost 9-12 at the end of the season, Clemson has looked solid and looked sharp in that loss to Duke. We are going with Clemson to advance.

Tallahassee Regional Tumult: Seminoles, Tigers, Knights, and Mocs

Friday, May 17

Auburn vs. UCF at 2 p.m. on ESPNU
No. 15 overall seed Florida State vs. Chattanooga at 4:30 p.m. on ACC Network

The Tallahassee Regional should be a fun one. Leading the charge is none other than the No. 15 seed Florida State Seminoles, hosting their 10th consecutive NCAA Regional and looking to make a statement on their home turf. With an impressive 43-14 record and a wealth of postseason experience, the Seminoles are poised for success as they aim to punch their ticket to the Women’s College World Series once again.

But Auburn, UCF, and Chattanooga are standing in their way. Auburn, making its fourth appearance in the Tallahassee Regional, brings a sense of familiarity and grit as it aims to capitalize on its postseason opportunity and advance to the next round.

UCF, riding high on the momentum of four consecutive NCAA Tournament bids, arrives in Tallahassee with a chip on their shoulder and a determination to prove their worth among the nation’s elite.

Prediction: Florida State will advance to the Super Regional and face Oklahoma in a national championship rematch.

Bryan-College Station Regional Battle: Aggies, Bobcats, Nittany Lions, and Great Danes

Friday, May 17

Texas State vs. Penn State at 4 p.m. on ESPNU
No. 16 overall seed Texas A&M vs. Albany at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN-plus

The Bryan-College Station Regional is hosted by the No. 16 seed Texas A&M Aggies. Texas A&M enters the tournament with an impressive 40-13 record, marking their 34th appearance and an impressive 22-year streak in NCAA postseason action. With a formidable track record in regional play, boasting a 32-8 record when hosting, the Aggies are determined to add another chapter to their storied legacy.

But they’ll face stiff competition from Texas State, Penn State, and Albany. Penn State, in particular, enters as one of the most successful teams in program history, boasting a 34-18 overall record.

Prediction: The Texas A&M Aggies get our node and will advance.