Alabama softball player Vic Moten (#00) celebrates during the game against LSU in the second game of the Super Regional on May 23, 2026, at Rhoads Stadium.
Alabama softball is headed back to the Women’s College World Series after defeating LSU 4-1 Saturday afternoon at Rhoads Stadium to complete its Super Regionals sweep.
The Crimson Tide relied on dominant pitching from Vic Moten and Jocelyn Briski, along with strong defense, to secure the program’s return to Oklahoma City.
Alabama head coach Patrick Murphy credited his team’s chemistry and resilience following the win.
“This team has just been unbelievably selfless,” Murphy said. “They’ve been full of gratitude, competitive, gritty — all the words you love as a coach.”
Alabama and LSU opened the game scoreless through the first two innings as Moten quickly settled into rhythm in the circle. The freshman recorded multiple strikeouts early, including three in the opening inning alone.
LSU threatened in the second inning after putting runners in scoring positions, but center fielder Kristen White made a catch near the warning track to end the frame and preserve the scoreless tie.
Alabama broke through in the third inning with aggressive baserunning. White advanced into scoring position before three wild pitches from LSU starter Jayden Heavener allowed White to score and give the Crimson Tide a 1-0 lead. LSU answered in the bottom half of the inning when right fielder Alix Franklin crossed home plate to tie the game 1-1.
The Crimson Tide responded immediately in the fourth. Designated player Alexis Pupillo launched her second home run of the weekend, restoring order in favor of Alabama. Shortly after, shortstop Salen Hawkins brought home left fielder Audrey Vandagriff and third baseman Ambrey Taylor, giving Alabama a 4-1 lead. The inning proved to be the difference as Alabama’s pitching staff and defense continued to shut down LSU’s offense.
Shortly after LSU came to bat in the fourth inning, play was suspended due to lightning. Once play resumed at 5:05 p.m. CT, Alabama switched pitchers to Briski. Play did not last long as there was another lightning delay that lasted until 7:35 p.m. CT.
Once play resumed in the sixth inning, Alabama loaded the bases, but LSU escaped the jam with a stop to keep the deficit at three. The Tigers continued to battle, yet Alabama’s defense held firm.
Alabama sealed the 4-1 victory with a strikeout in the bottom of the seventh inning, sending the Crimson Tide to the Women’s College World Series.
Following the game, LSU head coach Beth Torina praised Alabama’s performance and reflected on the importance of hosting postseason play.
“Congratulations to Alabama, they are a great team and had a great season,” Torina said. “They have one of the greatest pitchers, if not the best in the country, and she showed up this weekend and did a great job.”
Murphy also highlighted Alabama’s defensive effort, specifically White’s play in center field.
“Kristen White, man, a hell of a catch at center field,” Murphy said. “Think of all the hits that we took away. It’s because of our athleticism on defense.”
With the victory, Alabama advances to the Women’s College World Series, which kicks off at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday. The Crimson Tide will open play against No. 8 seed UCLA.
