In a thrilling and historic season, the University of Texas Longhorns softball team made a significant mark by advancing to the third round of the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) for the first time since 2017. This achievement not only ended a six-year championship drought but also showcased the team’s resilience, skill, and determination throughout the season.
The 2024 season was a testament to the Longhorns’ growth and development under the leadership of head coach Mike White. White, who took over the program in 2019, has steadily built a team capable of competing at the highest levels. His experience and strategic acumen were instrumental in guiding the Longhorns through a challenging schedule and into the WCWS.
The Longhorns’ journey to the WCWS was marked by impressive performances and key victories. They clinched the 2024 Big 12 softball regular season title after sweeping Texas Tech on the road in Lubbock. This was their first Big 12 regular season championship since 2010 and their fifth overall. Texas went 23-4 in league play and finished the regular season on a 16-game winning streak, tied for the fifth-longest in program history. They outscored opponents 411-104 during the season and had a strong record against top-ranked teams.
In the Austin Super Regional, Texas faced off against their rivals, the Texas A\&M Aggies. After dropping the first game, the Longhorns rallied to win the next two, clinching the Super Regional and securing their spot in the WCWS. The decisive game was a nail-biter, with Texas holding off a late surge from the Aggies to win 6-5. Pitcher Teagan Kavan played a crucial role, recording back-to-back swinging strikeouts to end a bases-loaded threat in the sixth inning.
At the WCWS, the Longhorns continued their dominant play. They opened with a 4-0 victory over Stanford, followed by a commanding 10-0 win against Florida, marking the first run-rule victory in Texas’ WCWS history. Pitcher Mac Morgan delivered a one-hit complete game shutout, and the offense was firing on all cylinders, with Alyssa Washington hitting a three-run homer to set the tone early.
Texas then faced Stanford again in the third round, edging out a 1-0 victory to advance to the championship series. The Longhorns’ pitching staff, led by Kavan and Morgan, was exceptional throughout the tournament, recording back-to-back shutouts for the first time in program history.
In the championship series, Texas faced a formidable opponent in the Oklahoma Sooners, who were aiming for their fourth consecutive national title. Despite a valiant effort, the Longhorns fell short, losing the series in two games. However, the team’s performance throughout the season and the tournament was commendable, tying the school single-season record with 55 wins and reaching the championship series for the second time in the last three years.
Several players received individual accolades for their performances. Mia Scott, Teagan Kavan, and Katie Stewart were all selected to the Women’s College World Series All-Tournament Team, tying the program’s record for most selections in a single season.
The 2024 season was a significant step forward for the Texas Longhorns softball program. Under Coach Mike White’s leadership, the team demonstrated that they could compete with the nation’s best, setting the stage for continued success in the years to come. Their journey to the third round of the WCWS not only ended a six-year drought but also reignited the program’s championship aspirations.
As the Longhorns look ahead, the experience gained from this deep tournament run will be invaluable. With a strong core of returning players and a coaching staff committed to excellence, Texas is poised to remain a formidable force in collegiate softball. The 2024 season will be remembered as a turning point, marking the resurgence of a proud program with a rich history and a bright future.
In conclusion, the University of Texas Longhorns softball team’s advancement to the third round of the Women’s College World Series in 2024 was a remarkable achievement that highlighted the team’s growth, resilience, and competitive spirit. Ending a six-year championship drought, the Longhorns showcased their ability to perform under pressure and against top-tier competition. This season laid a strong foundation for future success and reestablished Texas as a powerhouse in collegiate softball.
