Clemson softball kicked off their 2025 NCAA Tournament with a commanding 10-2 victory over USC Upstate, bolstered by a five-run fifth inning at McWhorter Stadium. The Tigers, boasting an impressive overall record of 45-12, demonstrated their offensive prowess by scoring in each of the last four innings of the game.
Highlighting the match was player Kylee Johnson, who contributed a significant three-run home run in the fourth inning, breaking a 2-2 tie and giving Clemson a 5-2 lead. This performance comes just days after her game-winning two-run homer in the ACC championship, marking a crucial role in the team’s success.
Clemson’s victory was punctuated by a series of run-scoring hits in the fifth inning, with Macey Cintron, Aby Vieira, Marian Collins, and Taylor Pipkins making key contributions. Pipkins’ double capped off a remarkable sequence of five consecutive hits, showcasing the team’s offensive depth.
Looking ahead, Clemson will face the Northwestern Wildcats, who earned their spot by defeating Kentucky 4-0. As the top seed in the regional, Clemson is the favorite to advance to the next round, with odds favoring them among sports writers and analysts. The upcoming match against Northwestern promises to be an exciting contest, with Clemson aiming to secure their place in the Super Regional.
For fans wishing to follow the action, the game against Northwestern is slated for 1:30 p.m. ET, with livestreaming available on ESPN+. The stakes are high as the winner will move on to compete further in the tournament, while the loser will have a chance to regroup against either Kentucky or USC Upstate later in the bracket.
Clemson’s recent performances highlight their potential and determination as they continue their journey in the NCAA tournament, creating an atmosphere of anticipation among fans and supporters.