The seventh-ranked Tennessee Lady Vols punched their ticket to the NCAA Super Regionals with a commanding 5-0 shutout over Ohio State in the Knoxville Regional final on May 18, 2025. The victory at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium capped a dominant weekend for Tennessee, who showcased elite pitching, timely hitting, and flawless defense as they continue their pursuit of a Women’s College World Series berth in Oklahoma City.
Mardjetko and Pickens Combine for a Gem
Freshman right-hander Sage Mardjetko set the tone in the circle, delivering five strong innings in her NCAA Tournament debut weekend. Mardjetko allowed just two hits, struck out five, and issued two walks, stifling Ohio State’s high-powered offense, which led the nation in scoring. In the sixth, veteran Karlyn Pickens took over, tossing two hitless innings with five strikeouts to seal the shutout. The duo’s precision and composure kept the Buckeyes off the scoreboard, showcasing Tennessee’s pitching depth.
Mardjetko, now 12-2 on the season, earned the win, while Pickens’ relief effort highlighted why Tennessee’s staff is among the nation’s best. Head coach Karen Weekly praised the pitching tandem postgame, noting their ability to execute under pressure and trust their defense, a hallmark of the Lady Vols’ postseason run.
Nugent’s Blast Sparks the Offense
Tennessee’s offense broke through in the sixth inning when catcher Sophia Nugent launched a two-run home run, giving the Lady Vols a 2-0 lead. The Oklahoma transfer’s towering shot, confirmed after a review, proved pivotal in cracking open a tight pitcher’s duel. Later in the inning, Laura Mealer added an RBI double, and in the seventh, Gabby Leach’s solo home run and Saviya Morgan’s RBI single tacked on two insurance runs.
The Lady Vols’ disciplined approach at the plate wore down Ohio State’s pitching staff, with seven hits spread across the game. Every Tennessee batter battled, forcing Ohio State to work for every out in a relentless offensive display.
Defense Locks It Down
Tennessee’s defense was airtight, marking their third consecutive error-free game in the regional. Center fielder Kiki Milloy, third baseman Zaida Puni, and first baseman Giulia Koutsoyanopulos anchored a unit that made every play count. Critical defensive stops, including diving efforts and quick reactions, snuffed out Ohio State’s scoring threats and energized the Knoxville crowd.
The Lady Vols’ defensive prowess contributed to a staggering +17 run differential across the regional, allowing just one earned run over 21 innings.
Knoxville Regional Recap: A Statement Made
Tennessee steamrolled through the Knoxville Regional with authority:
- Game 1: A 9-0 rout of Dayton in five innings, showcasing offensive firepower.
- Game 2: A 4-2 win over Ohio State on Saturday, powered by Karlyn Pickens’ 10-strikeout performance.
- Game 3: Sunday’s 5-0 shutout to clinch the regional title.
The Lady Vols outscored opponents 17-1, out-hit them by a wide margin, and played fundamentally sound softball, sending a clear message to the nation: Tennessee is a force.
Super Regionals: Nebraska Up Next
Tennessee now faces the Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Super Regionals, a rematch of an earlier meeting at the Mary Nutter Classic, where Nebraska won 3-1. The Cornhuskers earned their spot by advancing through the Baton Rouge Regional, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown. Tennessee, riding a wave of momentum, will host the best-of-three series at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium, where they boast a 24-3 record in 2025.
Coach Weekly acknowledged Nebraska’s toughness but expressed confidence in her team’s growth. “We’re a different group now—sharper, deeper, and clicking at the right time,” she said. The series is set for May 22-25, with game times to be announced.
Key Contributors Shining Bright
Several Lady Vols are peaking as the postseason intensifies:
- Sophia Nugent: A steady presence behind the plate with clutch power, highlighted by her sixth-inning homer.
- Kiki Milloy: Elite speed and range in center field, paired with a hot bat.
- Karlyn Pickens: The ace with a 0.91 ERA and 252 strikeouts, dominating in relief and starts.
- Zaida Puni: Veteran leadership and a reliable glove at third base.
- Sage Mardjetko: The freshman phenom proving she belongs in high-pressure moments.
Final Thoughts: Tennessee Built for Oklahoma City
Tennessee entered the NCAA Tournament with lofty expectations, and their Knoxville Regional performance delivered on that promise. The 5-0 shutout of Ohio State wasn’t just a win—it was a declaration of intent. With a deep pitching staff, a balanced lineup, and a defense that doesn’t flinch, the Lady Vols have the tools to challenge any team in the country.
If Tennessee sustains this level of play, Oklahoma City isn’t just a dream—it’s a destination within reach.
