Texas Tech claims historic win against Florida State in Super Regional

In the Tallahassee Super Regional held on May 22, 2025, in the United States, NiJaree Canady delivered a remarkable performance, allowing only two hits while also hitting a home run to help Texas Tech secure a 3-0 victory against the host team, Florida State. This win marked the Red Raiders' first-ever triumph in a Super Regional. NiJaree Canady, a standout who was the National Player of the Year last season, threw just 79 pitches during the game, maintaining her strong performance throughout the contest. The victory puts Texas Tech in a strong position as they pursue their first trip to the Women’s College World Series, showcasing their determination to advance further in the tournament. The game opened with an early lead for Texas Tech when Mihyia Davis executed an infield single, followed by Alexis Langliers’ single to left field. A strategic fielder’s choice by Lauren Allred allowed Davis to reach third base, and a subsequent throwing error by Florida State's catcher Michaela Edefield resulted in the first run of the game, giving the Red Raiders a crucial early advantage. In the fourth inning, Alana Johnson’s home run added to their score, demonstrating the offensive strength of the Texas Tech lineup. The seventh inning saw a significant moment when Canady hit her first-pitch homer to right field, marking her 11th home run of the season. Despite only surrendering nine home runs before this game, Canady’s contribution on the offensive end complemented her solid pitching performance. This game solidifies Texas Tech’s growing reputation in collegiate softball as they continue to build momentum in postseason play. Conversely, Florida State, which had been vying for their 13th trip to the Women’s College World Series, faced disappointment as Ashtyn Danley took the loss in this matchup, unable to effectively counter the Red Raiders’ attack. In another notable contest played on May 22, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina, Lexi Winters shone for the Gamecocks with a two-run home run, leading her team to a 9-2 victory over UCLA in their Super Regional opener. South Carolina displayed a formidable offensive strength throughout the game, including contributions from Abigail Knight, who showcased her skill with a two-run double. The Gamecocks, positioned as the eighth seed in this championship, are determined to maintain their momentum and progress further into the tournament as they prepare for the next match against UCLA. Both contests indicate the competitive nature of collegiate softball this season, with teams vying for coveted spots in the Women's College World Series.