UCLA Softball Advances to Women’s College World Series

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The UCLA softball team celebrates after defeating South Carolina to advance to the Women's College World Series.

News Summary

UCLA softball has secured a spot in the Women’s College World Series after defeating South Carolina 5-0 in the decisive Game 3 of the Columbia Super Regional. The Bruins showcased their resilience by winning the final two games of the series, with strong performances from players like Jordan Woolery and Kaitlyn Terry. UCLA’s impressive pitching allowed only four runs in total during the series, and they now prepare to face Oregon in the upcoming WCWS. The tournament starts soon, emphasizing the Bruins’ quest for another championship.

Columbia, SC – UCLA softball has advanced to the 33rd Women’s College World Series (WCWS) after defeating South Carolina 5-0 in the decisive Game 3 of the Columbia Super Regional on Saturday. This victory continues UCLA’s storied tradition in collegiate softball, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in the sport.

The Bruins showcased remarkable resilience throughout the series, coming back to win the final two games after initially losing Game 1 to South Carolina. Coach Kelly Inouye-Perez highlighted the team’s dedication and commitment to the process that led them to this crucial victory.

The pivotal Game 3 saw significant contributions from several players. Jordan Woolery started the offense with an RBI single in the first inning, setting the tone early against South Carolina’s pitcher, Sam Gress. Woolery had previously kept the Bruins’ season alive with a dramatic walk-off home run in Game 2, demonstrating her critical role in the series.

In terms of pitching, Kaitlyn Terry was a standout performer in Game 3, navigating through 5 ⅔ innings with an impressive performance that included allowing only two hits and striking out four batters, securing a shutout for the Bruins. Overall, UCLA’s pitching staff was dominant throughout the series, allowing only four runs in total, a significant improvement from the previous game, where they allowed nine runs. Across two victories, the Bruins’ pitching staff permitted just 12 hits, all of which were singles.

Woolery further enhanced the Bruins’ lead with an infield single in the fifth inning that drove in Jessica Clements. The game became tense in the sixth inning when South Carolina threatened to score, particularly from their home run leader, Arianna Rodi, but UCLA’s defense held strong to maintain their shutout.

To add insurance, UCLA scored three more runs in the seventh inning, benefitting from RBIs by Rylee Slimp and Alexis Ramirez. Taylor Tinsley played a crucial role as Saturday’s starting pitcher, contributing significantly to UCLA’s defensive efforts and finishing the game strong in relief.

With this victory, UCLA’s overall season record improves to 54-11, while South Carolina finished their year with a record of 44-17, concluding their tournament run in this series. UCLA now prepares to face Oregon in their opening game of the Women’s College World Series, scheduled for Thursday. This matchup is particularly notable, as the Bruins had suffered a series loss to Oregon earlier in April.

The Women’s College World Series will take place in Oklahoma City, commencing on May 29, promising to highlight some of the best talent in college softball as UCLA aims for continued success and a shot at the championship.