Tennessee’s Karlyn Pickens sets an NCAA softball record with a 79.4 mph fastball vs Nebraska. Read how this historic pitch fuels the Lady Vols’ push to the 2025 Women’s College World Series.
Tennessee softball sensation Karlyn Pickens just made history during the 2025 NCAA Super Regionals. In a high-stakes game against Nebraska, Pickens delivered the fastest pitch ever recorded in NCAA Division I softball — an astonishing 79.4 miles per hour. This pitch shattered her own previous record of 78.2 mph and solidified her status as one of the most dominant pitchers in college softball history.
Key Moment: Tennessee vs. Nebraska Super Regional Game 2
Facing elimination, the Lady Vols leaned on Pickens to deliver — and she did just that. Her record-setting performance helped Tennessee secure a 3-2 victory, forcing a decisive Game 3 in the Super Regional round.
Game Highlights:
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11 Strikeouts
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Only 5 hits allowed
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Complete 7-inning game
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⚾ 79.4 MPH fastball, NCAA record
Her elite velocity and precision played a pivotal role in keeping Tennessee’s Women’s College World Series (WCWS) hopes alive.
Season Stats: A Dominant Year for Pickens
Karlyn Pickens’ 2025 season has been nothing short of spectacular. She has consistently outperformed her peers across major statistical categories:
| Stat | 2025 Season |
|---|---|
| ERA | 1.03 (2nd nationally) |
| Strikeouts | 270 (6th in NCAA) |
| Wins | 22 |
| Honors | SEC Pitcher of the Year (Back-to-Back) |
She becomes just the 5th pitcher in SEC history to win SEC Pitcher of the Year in consecutive seasons, highlighting her unmatched consistency and dominance on the mound.
What This Means for Tennessee Softball
With one more win in the Super Regionals, the Lady Vols are aiming for a return to Oklahoma City and the 2025 Women’s College World Series. Pickens’ leadership, experience, and powerful pitching are key ingredients in Tennessee’s championship hopes.
Why It Matters:
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⚾ Sets the standard for elite collegiate pitchers
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Inspires the next generation of softball athletes
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Brings national attention to Tennessee’s program
Karlyn Pickens isn’t just breaking records — she’s reshaping the future of college softball. As Tennessee fights for a national title, all eyes will be on this powerhouse pitcher to lead them all the way.
Stay tuned as the Lady Vols chase WCWS glory with a living legend on the mound. ⚡
