Clemson’s softball team secured their spot in the NCAA Super Regionals with a decisive 5-1 victory over Kentucky in the final game of the Clemson Regional at McWhorter Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Behind a stellar pitching performance from Reese Basinger and timely hitting from Taylor Pipkins, the Tigers (47-12) controlled the contest from the third inning onward to eliminate the Wildcats (31-28).
Basinger Dominates in Circle
Reese Basinger delivered another masterful performance for the Tigers, improving her record to 17-5 on the season. The right-hander worked 5.2 innings, allowing just one unearned run on six hits while striking out three batters and walking only one. Basinger’s command was exceptional, throwing 68.1% of her pitches for strikes and keeping Kentucky hitters off balance throughout the afternoon.
When Kentucky threatened in the third inning with runners on second and third with one out, Basinger responded by inducing a line out to left field and recording a strikeout looking to preserve Clemson’s 1-0 lead. This clutch sequence highlighted her composure in high-pressure situations.
Brooke McCubbin entered in relief during the sixth inning and closed out the game with 1.1 perfect innings to earn her fourth save of the season. McCubbin needed just 14 pitches to record the final four outs, including a perfect seventh inning with three consecutive groundouts to shortstop.
Tigers’ Bats Erupt in Middle Innings
The Tigers’ offense collected 10 hits and capitalized on key opportunities throughout the game. After being held scoreless through two innings, Clemson broke through in the third when Julia Knowler doubled over the centerfielder’s head to drive in Alex Brown for the game’s first run.
The fourth inning proved decisive as Clemson exploded for three runs to take control of the game. After Collins walked to lead off the inning, Taylor Pipkins delivered the biggest hit of the day with a two-run home run to left-center field. Later in the same inning, Maddie Moore doubled down the right field line to drive in Brown, extending Clemson’s lead to 4-0.
Marian Collins led the Tigers offensively with a perfect 3-for-3 day at the plate, while Brown (2-for-4 with two runs scored) and Moore (2-for-4 with an RBI double) also contributed multiple hits. The Tigers’ offensive approach was balanced and disciplined, as they drew four walks and struck out just three times against Kentucky pitching.
Kentucky’s Struggles
The Wildcats struggled to generate consistent offense against Clemson’s pitching staff. Despite collecting six hits, Kentucky managed to push across just one unearned run in the sixth inning when a throwing error allowed a runner to score from third base.
Carson Fall took the loss for Kentucky, falling to 6-9 on the season. Fall allowed three runs on four hits in three innings of work before being relieved. The Wildcats’ pitching staff combined to walk seven Clemson batters, which proved costly as two of those free passes eventually came around to score.
Kentucky’s defense committed one error that led to an unearned run, though their pitchers worked out of several jams to keep the game within reach. The Wildcats offense left seven runners on base, including a crucial missed opportunity in the third inning with runners at second and third.
Looking Ahead
With the victory, Clemson advances to the NCAA Super Regionals where they will face Texas for a chance to reach the Women’s College World Series. The Tigers’ balanced attack of strong pitching, timely hitting, and solid defense has been their formula for success throughout the season.
The Tigers’ 47-12 record represents one of the best seasons in program history, and their advancement to the Super Regionals continues their impressive postseason run. Sunday’s attendance of 2,116 at McWhorter Stadium created an energetic atmosphere as fans witnessed Clemson’s regional championship victory.
The Super Regional matchup against Texas will begin later this week, with dates and times to be announced.
