Tennessee softball is set to host NCAA regionals as the No. 7 seed, beginning May 15 against Northern Kentucky. The Lady Vols aim for their first Women's College World Series title in 2026.
Key points
Tennessee softball has a 42-10 record.
They are the No. 7 overall seed in the NCAA tournament.
Regional play starts on May 15, 2026.
Tennessee will play Northern Kentucky in their first game.
Mentioned in this story
Sherri Parker Lee Stadium
Tennessee Lady VolsNCAA regionalsNorthern KentuckyVirginia
Why Tennessee softball can — and can't — win first WCWS. Here's our 2026 prediction
Tennessee opens regional play against Northern Kentucky (26-23) on May 15 (5:30 p.m. ET, SEC Network). No. 26 overall seed Virginia (38-13) and Indiana (42-14) will play in the second game of the day (8 p.m., ESPN2) in the double-elimination regional from May 15-17.
Here's why Tennessee can and can't return to the Women's College World Series and win the program's first national championship in 2026.
Tennessee huddles before the start of the NCAA college softball game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
Q&A
What is Tennessee softball's current record for the 2026 season?
Tennessee softball has a record of 42-10 for the 2026 season.
When does Tennessee softball start their regional play in 2026?
Tennessee softball begins regional play on May 15, 2026.
Who will Tennessee softball face in their first game of the 2026 NCAA regionals?
Tennessee will face Northern Kentucky in their first game of the 2026 NCAA regionals.
What seed is Tennessee softball in the 2026 NCAA tournament?
Tennessee softball is the No. 7 overall seed in the 2026 NCAA tournament.
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Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches agaist Alabama batter during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
The Lady Vols Locos stand prepared for the NCAA college softball game between the Tennessee Lady Vols and Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
Tennessee's Erin Nuwer (33) warming up before the start of the NCAA college softball game against Alabama in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
Tennessee softball coach Karen Weekly during the NCAA college softball game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
Alabama softball coach Patrick Murphy meets Tennessee softball coach Karen Weekly during before the start of the NCAA college softball game between the Tennessee Lady Vols and Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
Tennessee’s Erin Nuwer (33) pitches against Alabama during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee on April 27, 2026.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after striking out an Alabama batter during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee huddles before the start of the NCAA college softball game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee huddles before the start of the NCAA college softball game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches agaist Alabama batter during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
The Lady Vols Locos stand prepared for the NCAA college softball game between the Tennessee Lady Vols and Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee's Erin Nuwer (33) warming up before the start of the NCAA college softball game against Alabama in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee softball coach Karen Weekly during the NCAA college softball game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Alabama softball coach Patrick Murphy meets Tennessee softball coach Karen Weekly during before the start of the NCAA college softball game between the Tennessee Lady Vols and Alabama Crimson Tide on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee’s Erin Nuwer (33) pitches against Alabama during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee on April 27, 2026.
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Lady Vols softball vs Alabama rubber match. our best photos
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after striking out an Alabama batter during an NCAA college softball game in Knoxville, Tennessee, on April 27, 2026.
Tennessee softball is still the team that started 26-0
The Lady Vols set a record for best start to a season in program history when they went 26-0 before suffering their first loss. That start included wins over six ranked opponents with signature wins over Nebraska and UCLA, which was an 11-0 run-rule shutout.
Tennessee started SEC play with a sweep of LSU, and its offense was explosive to carry the Lady Vols to two comeback wins without star pitcher Karlyn Pickens available. They outscored LSU 24-11 in the series.
Tennessee is still capable of being that team, and coach Karen Weekly has talked about that consistently as the Lady Vols found their footing again in SEC play.
Tennessee softball has Karlyn Pickens with arms to back her up
This is Pickens' last postseason, and one of the greatest pitchers to come through the program isn't going out anywhere but the dirt in Oklahoma City if she has anything to say about it.
Pickens had her off days as she returned from an arm strain in March, but she has thrown some of her best games of the season lately. Weekly has called Pickens one of the most competitive players she has coached, and there's no doubt Pickens will continue to step up her game as the postseason goes on.
Pickens also has stronger arms backing her up this season – Tennessee leads the nation in ERA (1.33). Both Sage Mardjetko and Erin Nuwer took strides, but Mardjetko in particular has proven she can be a starter in the WCWS and get a win.
Pickens pitched 22⅔ innings of the WCWS last year – the Florida blowout win was the only time she didn't pitch the full game – and she won't have to this year.
Silhouettes of fans in the stands are seen in the infield as Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles while holding a golden ticket to the AUSL draft after a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Lee Parker Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 2, 2026.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Lee Parker Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 2, 2026.
Tennessee right handed pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) catches the ball at first base while playing Florida during an NCAA softball game at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Friday, March 20, 2026. Tennessee beat Florida 2-1 [Morgan Hurd/Gainesville Sun]
Tennessee pitcher and North Buncombe alumna Karlyn Pickens speaks to media members following a ceremony renaming the field in her honor on Jan. 16, 2026, after a girls home basketball game against Enka at North Buncombe High School.
Jun 2, 2025; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Tennessee Lady Volunteers pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch in the second inning against the Texas Longhorns during the NCAA Softball Women's College World Series semifinal game at Devon Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Jun 1, 2025; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Tennessee Lady Volunteers pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches in the ninth inning against the UCLA Bruins during the NCAA Softball Women's College World Series at Devon Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
Karlyn Pickens (23) throws pitch in the third inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the UCLA Bruins and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June, 1, 2025.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates during the the Women's College World Series softball game between the UCLA Bruins and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June, 1, 2025.
Tennessee junior pitcher Karlyn Pickens takes a selfie with her parents, Rebecca and Phillip, and her boyfriend, Jack, after Tennessee beat Florida in the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on May 30.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) and Emma Clarke (13) celebrate following the Women's College World Series softball game between the Florida Gators and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 30, 2025.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Florida Gators and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 30, 2025.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after an inning in a Women's College World Series softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches a Women's College World Series softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after winning a NCAA super regionals softball game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers and advancing to the Women's College World Series at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 25, 2025. Tennessee won 1-0 against Nebraska.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) and Tennessee utility Ella Dodge (25) celebrate after Pickens strikeouts a batter with the bases loaded during a NCAA super regionals softball game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Nebraska Cornhuskers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 25, 2025. Tennessee won 1-0 against Nebraska.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates the end of an inning during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Nebraska at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 24, 2025. Tennessee defeated Nebraska.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after striking out a batter during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 18, 2025. Tennessee won 5-0 against Ohio State.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates with Tennessee outfielder Taylor Pannell (3) after getting a strikeout during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 17, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) and Tennessee utility Ella Dodge (25) celebrate after a strikeout during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 17, 2025.
Tennessee softball player Karlyn Pickens throws a ceremonial first pitch during a minor baseball game between the Knoxville Smokies and Columbus Clingstones at Covenant Health Park on May 13, 2025.
May 8, 2025; Athens, GA, USA; Tennessee starting pitcher/relief pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against Arkansas at Jack Turner Stadium.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles while running off the field during a softball game between Tennessee and Texas A&M at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., May 1, 2025.
Tennessee utility player Ella Dodge (25) and Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrate during a softball game between Tennessee and Texas A&M at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., May 1, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles after an inning during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Clemson at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 22, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) reacts to an out during a softball game between Tennessee and Auburn at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., April 18, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a softball game between Tennessee and Auburn at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., April 18, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens, left, celebrates after an NCAA softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Lady Volunteers at Love's Field in Norman, Okla., Friday, March 28, 2025.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) and teammates celebrate after Pickens struck out the final batter win the NCAA softball game against Arkansas on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) reaxts after one of her pitches was ruled a ball during an NCAA college softball game against Arkansas on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
Tennessee's Charli Orsini (80) and Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrate as the Lady Vols take a 1-run lead against Arkansas during an NCAA college softball game on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after a strikeout during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Arkansas at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates winning a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Duke at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Duke at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 4-1.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Saturday, May 25, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 3-2 in the 14th inning.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Saturday, May 25, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 3-2 in the 14th inning.
Tennessee Lady Vols pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Friday, May 24, 2024.
Tennessee Lady Vols catcher Sophia Nugent (7) and pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) react during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Friday, May 24, 2024.
Tennessee Lady Vols sophomore pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Virginia Cavaliers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
Tennessee Lady Vols sophomore pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Virginia Cavaliers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
May 9, 2024; Auburn, AL, USA; Tennessee starting pitcher/relief pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) against LSU during the quarterfinals of the SEC Softball Championship at Jane B. Moore Field. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) during a Tennessee softball game between Tennessee and LSU, Saturday, April 20, 2024. LSU beat Tennessee 1-0.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a Tennessee softball game between Tennessee and LSU, Saturday, April 20, 2024. LSU beat Tennessee 1-0.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game at the Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Friday, March 15, 2024. The Lady Vols won 9-0 against Missouri.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles after a game against Carson-Newman at Sherri Parker Lee stadium on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023.
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
Silhouettes of fans in the stands are seen in the infield as Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) warms up during a Lady Vols softball game between Tennessee and Ole Miss at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium, Friday, March 10, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Silhouettes of fans in the stands are seen in the infield as Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Silhouettes of fans in the stands are seen in the infield as Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
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Knox News photographers share their best photos from April 2026
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles while holding a golden ticket to the AUSL draft after a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Lee Parker Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 2, 2026.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Lee Parker Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 2, 2026.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee right handed pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) catches the ball at first base while playing Florida during an NCAA softball game at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Friday, March 20, 2026. Tennessee beat Florida 2-1 [Morgan Hurd/Gainesville Sun]
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher and North Buncombe alumna Karlyn Pickens speaks to media members following a ceremony renaming the field in her honor on Jan. 16, 2026, after a girls home basketball game against Enka at North Buncombe High School.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Jun 2, 2025; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Tennessee Lady Volunteers pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch in the second inning against the Texas Longhorns during the NCAA Softball Women's College World Series semifinal game at Devon Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Jun 1, 2025; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Tennessee Lady Volunteers pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches in the ninth inning against the UCLA Bruins during the NCAA Softball Women's College World Series at Devon Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-Imagn Images
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Karlyn Pickens (23) throws pitch in the third inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the UCLA Bruins and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June, 1, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates during the the Women's College World Series softball game between the UCLA Bruins and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Sunday, June, 1, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee junior pitcher Karlyn Pickens takes a selfie with her parents, Rebecca and Phillip, and her boyfriend, Jack, after Tennessee beat Florida in the Women's College World Series at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on May 30.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) and Emma Clarke (13) celebrate following the Women's College World Series softball game between the Florida Gators and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 30, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch in the first inning of the Women's College World Series softball game between the Florida Gators and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Friday, May, 30, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after an inning in a Women's College World Series softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, May 29, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches a Women's College World Series softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Volunteers at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, Thursday, May 29, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after winning a NCAA super regionals softball game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers and advancing to the Women's College World Series at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 25, 2025. Tennessee won 1-0 against Nebraska.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) and Tennessee utility Ella Dodge (25) celebrate after Pickens strikeouts a batter with the bases loaded during a NCAA super regionals softball game between the Tennessee Volunteers and Nebraska Cornhuskers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 25, 2025. Tennessee won 1-0 against Nebraska.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates the end of an inning during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Nebraska at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 24, 2025. Tennessee defeated Nebraska.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after striking out a batter during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 18, 2025. Tennessee won 5-0 against Ohio State.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates with Tennessee outfielder Taylor Pannell (3) after getting a strikeout during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 17, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) and Tennessee utility Ella Dodge (25) celebrate after a strikeout during a NCAA regional game between Tennessee and Ohio State at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on May 17, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee softball player Karlyn Pickens throws a ceremonial first pitch during a minor baseball game between the Knoxville Smokies and Columbus Clingstones at Covenant Health Park on May 13, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
May 8, 2025; Athens, GA, USA; Tennessee starting pitcher/relief pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against Arkansas at Jack Turner Stadium.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles while running off the field during a softball game between Tennessee and Texas A&M at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., May 1, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee utility player Ella Dodge (25) and Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrate during a softball game between Tennessee and Texas A&M at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., May 1, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles after an inning during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Clemson at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 22, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) reacts to an out during a softball game between Tennessee and Auburn at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., April 18, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a softball game between Tennessee and Auburn at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium at University of Tennessee, in Knoxville, Tenn., April 18, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens, left, celebrates after an NCAA softball game between the Oklahoma Sooners (OU) and the Tennessee Lady Volunteers at Love's Field in Norman, Okla., Friday, March 28, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) and teammates celebrate after Pickens struck out the final batter win the NCAA softball game against Arkansas on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) reaxts after one of her pitches was ruled a ball during an NCAA college softball game against Arkansas on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Charli Orsini (80) and Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrate as the Lady Vols take a 1-run lead against Arkansas during an NCAA college softball game on Monday, March 24, 2025, in Knoxville, Tenn.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates after a strikeout during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Arkansas at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) celebrates winning a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Duke at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game between Tennessee and Duke at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Sunday, May 26, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 4-1.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Saturday, May 25, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 3-2 in the 14th inning.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) during an NCAA super regional game between Tennessee and Alabama at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN, Saturday, May 25, 2024. Alabama defeated Tennessee 3-2 in the 14th inning.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee Lady Vols pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Friday, May 24, 2024.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee Lady Vols catcher Sophia Nugent (7) and pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) react during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Friday, May 24, 2024.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee Lady Vols sophomore pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Virginia Cavaliers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee Lady Vols sophomore pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches against the Virginia Cavaliers at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, TN on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
May 9, 2024; Auburn, AL, USA; Tennessee starting pitcher/relief pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) against LSU during the quarterfinals of the SEC Softball Championship at Jane B. Moore Field. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) during a Tennessee softball game between Tennessee and LSU, Saturday, April 20, 2024. LSU beat Tennessee 1-0.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a Tennessee softball game between Tennessee and LSU, Saturday, April 20, 2024. LSU beat Tennessee 1-0.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a NCAA softball game at the Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Friday, March 15, 2024. The Lady Vols won 9-0 against Missouri.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) smiles after a game against Carson-Newman at Sherri Parker Lee stadium on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee's Karlyn Pickens (23) throws a pitch during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and South Carolina at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, May 6, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Silhouettes of fans in the stands are seen in the infield as Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) pitches during a SEC softball game between Tennessee and Florida at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Monday, April 24, 2023.
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Karlyn Pickens, Tennessee Lady Vols softball star has fastest pitch ever
Tennessee pitcher Karlyn Pickens (23) warms up during a Lady Vols softball game between Tennessee and Ole Miss at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium, Friday, March 10, 2023.
Tennessee softball offense was inconsistent in SEC play
Tennessee's offense had a hot start to SEC play before quickly fizzling out. After sweeping LSU, the Lady Vols averaged 4.4 hits over their next nine conference games and went 4-5.
Tennessee showed flashes of its potential in series wins over South Carolina, Kentucky, Alabama and Missouri. The Lady Vols even found ways to score against Alabama's pitching staff before two wins at Missouri with 10-plus hits. But in their last two losses going into the regional, they only had four hits in each game.
Tennessee's offense has to show up to make it back to Oklahoma City, especially if it wants to accomplish something it has never done before.
Tennessee softball only returned handful of starters from WCWS run
Tennessee lost four seniors and All-America third baseman Taylor Pannell to the transfer portal after last year's WCWS run. Only four players in the lineup this season started most of last season or started in the WCWS.
The youth of the Lady Vols has also been a factor in the swings from highs to lows this season. Weekly has said the 26-0 start would have seemed impossible to them going into the season, and they knew they'd take their lumps with this team with no All-SEC returners outside of Pickens.
None of Tennessee's three incoming transfers have played in an NCAA Tournament, either, and that inexperience could come back to bite the Lady Vols.
Tennessee softball prediction for Women's College World Series
Tennessee will return to the WCWS for the third time in the last four seasons. The Lady Vols have the pieces to win it all, but outside of pitching, they haven't shown enough to make me believe they will. But Tennessee will end its season in Oklahoma City once again.
