The excitement is palpable for college softball fans as the 2025 NCAA tournament kicks off this Friday. All 64 teams will be competing across 16 regional sites, showcasing the depth of talent in the sport. Opening games will start at 11 a.m. Central Time, running into the late hours, making it a thrilling day for spectators.
This weekend’s regional tournaments will follow a double-elimination format, culminating in one team from each regional advancing to the super regionals next week. Historically, the higher-seeded host teams triumph in these early rounds, but the landscape of college softball has been evolving. With increased parity, the likelihood of upsets is greater than ever.
Several underdog teams have the potential to stage surprises in the regionals:
1. **Nebraska** – With ace Jordy Bahl returning after a knee injury, her performance is crucial. Boasting a remarkable 1.57 ERA and dominating at the plate with a .458 batting average, Bahl’s experience in high-pressure NCAA situations is invaluable for the Cornhuskers aiming for a regional upset.
2. **Virginia Tech** – Despite being unseeded, the Hokies bring a strong RPI of 14 and have already secured a victory against Alabama earlier this season. Their offensive prowess, averaging over seven runs per game, poses a significant threat to the Crimson Tide, making for an exhilarating matchup.
3. **Stanford** – With their home stadium under renovation, Stanford heads to Oregon, where they are familiar with the surroundings. Capable of explosive offense, averaging 8.1 runs per game, the Cardinal aim to leverage their strength against Oregon’s pitching.
4. **Oklahoma State** – A preseason favorite, OSU holds wins over numerous top-ranked teams and aims to capitalize on its powerful lineup. Their consistency on offense will be key against Arkansas if they hope to advance.
5. **Florida Atlantic** – As a non-Power Five contender, the Owls are equipped with quality wins and a strong pitching staff led by Autumn Courtney. They have a chance to capitalize on Florida’s inconsistent performance if the matchup goes their way.
This year’s tournament promises to be electrifying as teams strive to etch their names in college softball history. With top contenders and potential upsets on the horizon, the competition is sure to enthrall fans from coast to coast.