Tennessee softball pitcher Karlyn Pickens has made history by recording the three fastest pitches in the sport, with her latest incredible feat being a 79.4 mph pitch against Nebraska in the NCAA super regional. This remarkable achievement during the 2025 season has positioned her in the spotlight, surpassing the previous record held by former Tennessee legend Monica Abbott.
Throughout the season, Pickens has displayed exceptional performance, compiling a record of 23-9, an impressive earned run average (ERA) of 1.03, and racking up 270 strikeouts over 197 innings. Her remarkable skills have propelled the Tennessee Lady Vols to their ninth appearance in the Women’s College World Series.
Pickens first tied the record for fastest pitch on February 21 with a 77 mph fastball against Oregon, before breaking it herself on March 25 with a pitch clocked at 78.2 mph against Arkansas. The pinnacle of her speed came with the 79.4 mph throw, highlighting her dominance on the mound.
As the seventh seed, Tennessee (45-15) is set to face the second seed Oklahoma (50-7) as they kick off the Women’s College World Series on May 29 at 2:30 p.m. ET in Oklahoma City. With Pickens leading the charge, the team carries hopes of making a deep run in the tournament.
The achievements of Karlyn Pickens not only showcase her incredible talent but also serve as an inspiration to young athletes aspiring to reach the highest levels in their sport.