SPORTS

Tennessee advances, to face Texas Tech Saturday afternoon

PUBLISHED May 28, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

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Sources: 8

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Sources: 8

OKLAHOMA CITY — Tennessee defeated defending champion Texas 6-3 in the Women's College World Series opener on Thursday, May 28, advancing into the winners' bracket. The No. 7 seed Lady Vols secured the victory behind strong pitching and timely hitting and will meet No. 3 seed Texas Tech at Devon Park on Saturday, May 30 at 3 p.m. ET. Tennessee’s win included First Team All-American pitcher Sage Mardjetko and a three-run home run by Knoxville freshman Elsa Morrison in her WCWS debut; Texas Tech opened the tournament with an 8-0 run-rule victory over Mississippi State on May 28. Alabama also won its opener and is scheduled to face the Nebraska/Arkansas winner on Saturday evening, per published WCWS schedules.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

May 28, 2026: Texas Tech defeated Mississippi State 8-0 (five innings) in WCWS opening game.
May 28, 2026: Tennessee defeated defending champion Texas 6-3 in its WCWS opener.
May 28, 2026: Alabama defeated UCLA 6-3 in its WCWS opener.
May 30, 2026: Tennessee scheduled to play Texas Tech at 3 p.m. ET on ABC.
May 30, 2026: Alabama scheduled to play winner of Nebraska vs. Arkansas at 6 p.m. CT.

News Intelligence

This is a big moment for Tennessee sports fans. The Lady Vols' win over Texas puts them in a strong position for the Women's College World Series. If you're a fan, mark your calendar for Saturday, May 30 at 3 p.m. ET.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

Tennessee's softball program, its players, coaches, and the university's athletic department benefited from a high-profile WCWS victory that advances the program and increases exposure, recruiting appeal, and potential revenue.

Who Impacted

Texas' softball team suffered a setback with a 6-3 WCWS opening loss to Tennessee, which complicates its tournament path and places added pressure on pitching and lineup adjustments.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Texas' softball team suffered a setback with a 6-3 WCWS opening loss to Tennessee, which complicates its tournament path and places added pressure on pitching and lineup adjustments.