The 2025 college softball season has delivered its most thrilling storyline yet: Texas Tech vs Texas softball in the championship series of the Women’s College World Series. This all-Texas final is not just a battle for a national title—it’s a showcase of two programs at the peak of their powers, both hungry for their first-ever NCAA softball crown. As the series begins, fans across the state and the nation are tuning in for a rivalry that has never been more intense or meaningful.
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Texas Tech vs Texas Softball: A Rivalry Reborn on the Biggest Stage
For months, 309 NCAA Division I softball teams chased the dream of Oklahoma City. Now, after dramatic upsets and clutch performances, only Texas Tech and Texas remain. The 2025 Women’s College World Series finals mark the most high-profile Texas Tech vs Texas softball matchup in history, and the stakes could not be higher.
Texas, the No. 6 seed, is making its third finals appearance in four years, still searching for its first national championship. The Longhorns have a storied legacy, with eight WCWS appearances, but have always come up just short. Texas Tech, seeded No. 12, is the upstart—fueled by a historic run, a record NIL deal for their ace pitcher, and a hunger to make school history.
The best-of-three series began Wednesday, June 4, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, with Game 2 scheduled for Thursday and a potential Game 3 on Friday, all in primetime. Every pitch, every hit, and every out is being watched by a national audience, as the Lone Star State’s finest battle for the ultimate prize.
How Texas Tech and Texas Reached the WCWS Finals
Both teams took dramatic paths to the championship. Texas Tech stunned the softball world by knocking off four-time defending champion Oklahoma in a nail-biting semifinal. Down to their last strike, the Red Raiders rallied with a two-run homer by Abigale Dayton, then walked it off in the bottom of the seventh with a sacrifice fly from Lauren Allred. Pitcher NiJaree Canady, the $1 million NIL star, has been nearly unhittable in Oklahoma City, throwing 21 innings with just 11 hits and three earned runs allowed.
Texas, meanwhile, exorcised its own demons by eliminating Oklahoma earlier in the tournament, then outlasted Tennessee in a tense 2-0 win to clinch its spot in the finals. The Longhorns’ pitching staff, led by freshman sensation Teagan Kavan, has been lights out. Kavan, who struggled late in the regular season, has rebounded to allow just five earned runs over her last 26.1 innings, including a shutout performance to close out Tennessee.
Key Players to Watch
- Texas Tech: NiJaree Canady (Pitcher) – The Red Raiders’ ace has been dominant, carrying the team through the WCWS with her power and poise.
- Texas: Teagan Kavan (Pitcher) – The freshman has become the Longhorns’ postseason hero, delivering in the biggest moments.
- Texas: Katie Stewart (Catcher) – Provided crucial offense with a solo homer in the semifinal against Tennessee.
Texas Tech vs Texas Softball: What to Expect in the Finals
This Texas Tech vs Texas softball showdown is more than just a game—it’s a clash of styles and stories. Texas brings postseason experience and a deep roster, while Texas Tech rides the momentum of a Cinderella run and the arm of Canady. The Longhorns won both regular-season meetings, but the Red Raiders have evolved into a different team since then.
Series Schedule and Broadcast Information
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | June 4 | 8 p.m. | ESPN |
| 2 | June 5 | 8 p.m. | ESPN |
| 3* | June 6 | 8 p.m. | ESPN |
*Game 3 if necessary
All games can also be streamed live on ESPN+ and Fubo.
Series Storylines
- First-Time Champion: With Oklahoma eliminated, a new national champion is guaranteed. Both Texas Tech and Texas are chasing history.
- Pitching Duel: Canady vs Kavan is the matchup to watch. Whichever ace can outlast the other may decide the series.
- Rivalry Renewed: This is the most significant Texas Tech vs Texas softball clash since Texas announced its move to the SEC, adding even more fuel to the fire.
The Road Ahead: Who Will Claim the Crown?
As the Texas Tech vs Texas softball series unfolds, fans can expect high drama, electric atmospheres, and unforgettable moments. Texas seeks to finally break through after years of heartbreak, while Texas Tech aims to complete its underdog story. Both teams have the talent and tenacity to win it all, but only one will leave Oklahoma City as national champions.
Don’t miss a pitch of this epic Lone Star showdown. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the 2025 Women’s College World Series finals promise to be the highlight of the sports calendar. Tune in, cheer loud, and witness history as Texas Tech and Texas battle for softball supremacy.
Catch every moment of Texas Tech vs Texas softball live on ESPN and streaming platforms. Share your predictions, rally your friends, and be part of the excitement as a new champion is crowned in Oklahoma City!