The 2025 Women’s College World Series is shaping up to be an exhilarating showdown, heading into a decisive third game after Texas Tech secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Texas last night. The stage is set for a dramatic finale, with the championship hanging in the balance.
In a performance that showcased her resilience under pressure, Red Raiders pitcher NiJaree Canady struck out Longhorns outfielder Kayden Henry, clinching the win and ensuring the series remains alive. With the Longhorns threatening with a runner on third, Canady displayed poise, ending the game on three consecutive pitches that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The game took a pivotal turn in the bottom of the fifth inning when Texas pitcher Cambria Salmon hit Texas Tech’s Alana Johnson, breaking the scoreless tie and pushing a run across. The Red Raiders took full advantage of the moment, tacking on another run when a wild pitch skidded past Longhorns catcher Reese Atwood, widening their lead and sending a clear message about their offensive capability.
Texas responded in the sixth with a spark of their own. Mia Scott launched a solo home run, narrowing the deficit to 2-1. However, Canady continued to keep the Longhorns at bay, striking out Atwood and getting Joley Mitchell to foul out, preserving the lead for her team.
The momentum shifted again in the bottom of the sixth. A fielding error by Texas pitcher Citlaly Gutierrez on a chopper from Victoria Valdez gave the Red Raiders crucial runners on first and third. Head coach Mike White reacted by bringing in Teagan Kavan, hoping to stem the bleeding. Yet, Bailey Lindemuth delivered a clutch sacrifice fly, scoring Makayla Garcia and extending Texas Tech’s advantage to 3-1. The inning concluded with Mihyia Davis capitalizing on a mishap at first base, leading to another run that had Texas reeling.
As if giving us one final taste of the drama, the Longhorns rallied in the bottom of the seventh. Red Raiders shortstop Hailey Toney misplayed a hard chopper, and shortly after, Canady hit Victoria Hunter, loading the bases and bringing Leighann Goode to the plate as the tying run. Goode delivered with a crucial double, scoring Toney and impending excitement as Texas cut the lead to 4-2.
With the tension mountaining, Katie Cimusz’s sacrifice fly added another run, pulling the Longhorns to within one. Goode stood poised at third base, representing the tying run as hearts raced in the stands. But Canady was unfazed, striking out Kayden Henry to end the threat and seal the win for Texas Tech.
Canady’s full seven-inning effort was instrumental, allowing just three runs (two earned) on six hits, while striking out six batters and demonstrating the ability to rise to the occasion. Offensively, Davis proved to be a powerhouse, going 3 for 4 with an RBI, showing how critical timely hitting can be in high-stakes situations.
For Texas, the loss marked a struggle for Salmon, who allowed two runs on three hits in three innings. Gutierrez faced her challenges as well, with both runs against her going unearned. Still, Scott’s impressive 2 for 2 performance, highlighted by her home run, showcased the potential for Texas to bounce back.
The series now shifts to Game 3, scheduled for 8 p.m. ET tonight, with everything on the line. Expect Canady to take the mound again for Texas Tech, while Kavan prepares for her shot at redemption for the Longhorns. With a national championship at stake, fans can anticipate a fierce battle between these two talented teams. Get ready for what promises to be a classic showdown!
