Texas Ends Oklahoma’s Reign, Sets Stage for All-Texas Showdown in Women’s College World Series Final
In a dramatic, high-stakes semifinal at the Women’s College World Series (WCWS), the Texas Longhorns did the unthinkable — they brought an end to Oklahoma’s near-mythical softball dynasty. With grit, power, and relentless determination, Texas defeated the Sooners 3–1, halting a three-time national championship streak and preventing Oklahoma from securing what would have been a fifth title in six years.
This landmark victory not only sends Texas to the WCWS championship series, but it also signals a changing of the guard in collegiate softball. Awaiting them in the final? Fellow Lone Star rival Texas Tech, who cruised past Florida State in their own semifinal matchup. For the first time in WCWS history, the final will feature two teams from the same state — and that state is Texas.
For years, Oklahoma has been the undisputed powerhouse of NCAA softball. With a roster stacked with All-Americans and a culture of excellence forged under head coach Patty Gasso, the Sooners have been nearly untouchable. But Saturday night, that aura of invincibility finally cracked.
Texas, led by head coach Mike White, came in focused and fearless. From the opening pitch, it was clear the Longhorns weren’t just there to compete — they came to conquer.
Sophomore ace Mac Morgan delivered a masterclass in the circle, holding Oklahoma’s lethal lineup in check while striking out seven and walking none. At the plate, Texas showed patience and power. A solo home run from Reese Atwood in the third inning opened the scoring, and the Longhorns added insurance in the fifth with back-to-back RBI doubles from Leighann Goode and Mia Scott.
Oklahoma’s only response came in the sixth inning, when Tiare Jennings lined a solo shot to left field. But Morgan quickly regrouped, shutting down the next three batters to end the threat. The final out, a routine grounder to short, sent the Texas dugout into a frenzy.
The Red Raiders entered this postseason as underdogs, but their momentum has been building with each passing game. After eliminating perennial contenders like Alabama and UCLA, they arrived at the WCWS brimming with confidence. Against Florida State, they made their boldest statement yet.
Junior pitcher Olivia Nelson threw a complete game shutout, allowing just two hits while striking out nine. Offensively, Texas Tech erupted for six runs in the first three innings and never looked back. Star freshman Jaycee Moreno continued her tear through the tournament with a 3-for-4 performance, including a two-run triple that all but sealed the game.
Two public universities from the same state. Two programs that have historically lived in the shadow of national powers. Two passionate fanbases hungry for validation. And one title on the line.
The All-Texas final promises to be more than just a softball series — it’s a cultural clash wrapped in burnt orange and scarlet. It’s speed versus power, tradition versus ambition, and a spotlight moment for the state’s booming softball scene.
Analysts are already calling it one of the most compelling finals in WCWS history. The ratings are expected to soar. And for young girls across Texas watching at home, it’s proof that the path to greatness can begin in their own backyard.
This is Texas softball’s moment,” said ESPN analyst Jessica Mendoza. “We’ve talked for years about Oklahoma’s dynasty. But what we’re seeing now is the next chapter — and it’s being written deep in the heart of Texas.”
The best-of-three championship series begins Monday night at Devon Park. Texas enters with the nation watching, fresh off their monumental upset. Texas Tech arrives riding a wave of belief and momentum. Both teams know each other well, having split their regular-season series — setting the stage for what could be a classic.