Amber Aniston+ • December 8, 2025
Duke Claims First ACC Championship With Gritty 27–20 Overtime Victory Over No. 16 Virginia
Blue Devils Outlast Cavaliers in Defensive Battle to Secure Historic Title
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In a championship game defined by defensive willpower, timely offense, and an overtime finish befitting two of the ACC’s toughest teams, Duke captured its first conference title in program history by defeating No. 16 Virginia 27–20 on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium. The victory delivered Duke its first league crown since joining the ACC and capped one of the most complete seasons in program history, while Virginia fell to 10–3 and saw its championship aspirations end in a dramatic final sequence .
Duke leaned on steady quarterback play, a resilient ground attack, and a defense that made critical stops in the game’s final minutes. The Blue Devils controlled overtime and refused to let Virginia’s explosive offense seize momentum when it mattered most. The result secured not only a championship but also a milestone moment for a program that had rebuilt its identity around discipline, depth, and situational execution.
A Defensive First Half Defines the Championship Atmosphere
Both teams entered the matchup with top-tier defensive identities, and the early stages reflected that emphasis. The first quarter unfolded with calculated drives rather than sudden explosive plays, as Duke and Virginia traded short gains and field position while searching for rhythm.
Duke struck first with a balanced drive that set up a short rushing score, taking a 7–0 lead and establishing early momentum. Virginia responded with composure, piecing together a drive fueled by short passes and creative backfield movement. The Cavaliers tied the game 7–7 with a methodical finish, showing the poise that had carried them through the regular season as one of the ACC’s top-ranked offenses.
From there, both defenses tightened. Duke’s front disrupted Virginia’s timing with persistent pressure, while Virginia’s secondary forced several contested throws and limited Duke’s vertical options. Neither team surrendered easy yards, and each possession became a test of patience and field management.
Duke reclaimed the lead late in the first half, capitalizing on a sustained drive that ended in a field goal for a 10–7 advantage. Virginia countered with a focused two-minute drill to tie the game 10–10 at halftime, setting the stage for a tight, physical second half in which every play carried championship weight.
Duke Controls the Third Quarter but Virginia Answers Late
The Blue Devils opened the third quarter with their most confident offensive series of the game. A mix of downhill rushing and high-percentage throws moved Duke deep into Virginia territory. The Cavaliers held firm inside the red zone but could not prevent Duke from converting another field goal, giving the Blue Devils a 13–10 lead.
Duke’s defense followed with a tone-setting stop that produced the biggest momentum shift of the quarter. The Blue Devils forced consecutive negative plays, flipping field position and placing Virginia’s offense on its heels. Duke capitalized once again, using a balanced drive to score a touchdown and build a 20–10 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Virginia refused to fold. The Cavaliers, who had spent much of the second half struggling to create explosive plays, found life late in the fourth quarter. A well-executed drive cut the deficit to 20–17, giving Virginia renewed energy and tightening the pressure on Duke’s closing sequences. The Cavaliers completed the comeback moments later with a field goal to tie the game 20–20, sending the ACC Championship into overtime.
Overtime Belongs to the Blue Devils
Duke began overtime with the poise of a team determined to seize a historic opportunity. A series of efficient runs and a critical third-down completion moved the Blue Devils inside the five-yard line. On the next play, Duke powered into the end zone to take a 27–20 lead, placing full pressure on Virginia’s final possession.
Virginia attempted to match with a quick-strike approach, but Duke’s defense delivered its defining stand of the season. On second down, the Blue Devils forced an incompletion that shifted Virginia into a passing situation. A third-down rush collapsed the pocket, pushing the Cavaliers into fourth-and-long with the championship hanging in the balance.
Duke’s secondary tightened its coverage on the final play, and Virginia’s pass fell incomplete, sealing the Blue Devils’ first ACC title and igniting a celebration decades in the making. The defensive stand punctuated a game in which Duke repeatedly executed in the most high-pressure moments.
Blue Devils’ Balanced Attack Carries the Championship
While the score reflected a defensive struggle, Duke’s offensive consistency made the difference. The Blue Devils controlled time of possession and generated sustainable drives even when Virginia’s front seven stiffened in key moments. The ground game complemented timely throws, helping Duke avoid long-yardage situations and ensuring stability throughout the contest.
The offensive line delivered one of its best performances of the season, absorbing Virginia’s pressure and protecting the pocket long enough for Duke to execute its game plan. The Blue Devils did not rely on a single breakout star; instead, they leaned on collective discipline — a hallmark of their path to the championship stage.
Virginia Battles but Falls Short in Crucial Moments
Virginia entered the title game with one of the ACC’s most productive offenses, but Duke’s defense disrupted the Cavaliers’ rhythm from the opening snap. Although Virginia produced scoring drives in key moments, the Cavaliers struggled to convert on third downs and found themselves repeatedly forced to settle for short gains rather than explosive plays.
Their late-game surge highlighted the team’s resilience, but missed opportunities in the red zone and a handful of stalled possessions prevented Virginia from gaining sustained momentum. The Cavaliers’ defense kept them within striking distance, but overtime exposed the narrow gap separating the two teams.
The loss dropped Virginia to 10–3, still marking one of the program’s strongest seasons in the past decade, but the final outcome underscored how small differences in execution can determine a championship.
Final Takeaway
Duke’s 27–20 overtime win over No. 16 Virginia was a defining moment for a program that has steadily built toward national relevance. The Blue Devils showed discipline, defensive toughness, and late-game composure — traits that carried them from preseason uncertainty to conference champions.
Virginia fought to the final play and demonstrated the qualities that made them one of the ACC’s most consistent teams this season, but Duke’s balance and clutch execution ultimately proved decisive.
For the Blue Devils, the victory signals a new era — one in which the program is not just competitive, but capable of winning championships on the biggest stage.
OMAHA, Neb. — No. 5 North Carolina moved one step closer to the national championship series Sunday night, defeating No. 16 West Virginia 5–2 in a winner’s bracket matchup at the Men’s College World Series. The Tar Heels used a three-run seventh inning and another strong pitching performance to remain unbeaten in Omaha and advance to the bracket final. North Carolina improved to 52–12–1 on the season and became just one victory away from reaching the College World Series championship series. West Virginia fell to 46–16 and dropped into the elimination bracket. Tar Heels Strike Early North Carolina wasted little time manufacturing offense. The Tar Heels loaded the bases in the first inning after Jake Schaffner and Owen Hull recorded back-to-back hits and Macon Winslow was hit by a pitch. Erik Paulsen then drew a bases-loaded walk to force home the game’s first run. Moments later, Cooper Nicholson grounded out to bring Hull home and extend the lead to 2–0. The early scoring gave North Carolina immediate momentum in what quickly developed into a pitching duel. Mountaineers Battle Back West Virginia responded by slowly chipping away at the deficit. In the third inning, Ben Lumsden reached base and eventually scored when Armani Guzman lined an RBI single through the middle, cutting the lead to 2–1. The Mountaineers continued applying pressure in the fourth inning. After putting runners on the corners, West Virginia tied the game when Sean Smith scored on a double-play ground ball. Although North Carolina escaped further damage, the game was suddenly even at 2–2. The Mountaineers had erased the early deficit and appeared poised to make the game a battle deep into the evening. Yehl and Lynch Settle Into Duel Following the early scoring, both starting pitchers settled into a rhythm. West Virginia starter Maxx Yehl recovered from the rocky first inning and delivered one of his strongest postseason performances. The right-hander worked seven innings, striking out seven while allowing five runs, though only two were earned because of defensive miscues behind him. North Carolina starter Ryan Lynch also delivered an effective outing. The sophomore worked 4.2 innings, allowing two runs while helping keep the Mountaineers from generating a bigger rally during the middle innings. For several innings, neither team could break the tie. Gallaher Delivers the Turning Point The game’s decisive moment came in the bottom of the seventh inning. North Carolina capitalized on defensive mistakes by West Virginia to create a scoring opportunity. Carter French reached base, and Schaffner later advanced into scoring position before Gavin Gallaher stepped to the plate. The junior second baseman ripped a two-run triple into right-center field, scoring both French and Schaffner to give the Tar Heels a 4–2 lead. Moments later, Hull followed with an RBI single up the middle that brought Gallaher home and extended the lead to 5–2. The three-run inning provided all the separation North Carolina needed. McDuffie Dominates in Relief One of the biggest factors in the victory was the performance of reliever Walker McDuffie. After replacing Lynch in the fifth inning, McDuffie completely shut down the Mountaineers’ offense. The right-hander tossed 3.2 scoreless innings without allowing a hit while striking out four batters. McDuffie earned the victory and repeatedly delivered key pitches whenever West Virginia threatened. His outing allowed North Carolina to maintain control while the offense searched for the go-ahead run. Glauber Closes the Door West Virginia mounted one final rally in the ninth inning. The Mountaineers placed runners on first and second with one out, bringing the tying run to the plate and creating pressure for North Carolina. Head coach Scott Forbes turned to freshman closer Caden Glauber, and the move paid off immediately. Glauber struck out both batters he faced to end the game and secure his fifth save of the season. The dominant finish preserved the victory and continued a remarkable trend. North Carolina remained undefeated this season when Glauber appeared in a game. Gallaher and Hull Lead the Offense Gallaher delivered the game’s biggest hit with his two-run triple, but the Tar Heels received contributions throughout the lineup. Hull collected key hits, including the RBI single that capped the decisive seventh inning. Schaffner and French also played important roles in creating scoring opportunities during the late rally. While North Carolina did not generate overwhelming offensive numbers, it consistently capitalized on opportunities when they appeared. West Virginia Faces Elimination Despite the loss, West Virginia remained alive in Omaha. The Mountaineers received strong pitching from Yehl and got offensive contributions from Guzman and Smith, but they struggled to generate offense after the fourth inning. West Virginia managed only two runs despite several opportunities against the Tar Heel pitching staff. The loss dropped the Mountaineers into an elimination game against Troy. Tar Heels Continue Historic Run The victory marked North Carolina’s first 2–0 start at the College World Series since 2006. Historically, teams that begin 2–0 in Omaha have gone on to win the national championship at a remarkable rate. North Carolina also continued one of the most successful seasons in program history and positioned itself just one win away from returning to the championship series. Final Takeaway North Carolina’s 5–2 victory over West Virginia was defined by timely hitting, dominant relief pitching, and the ability to capitalize on mistakes. After the Mountaineers erased an early deficit, the Tar Heels responded with a decisive seventh inning and relied on Walker McDuffie and Caden Glauber to finish the job. West Virginia battled throughout the contest but could not generate enough offense late against North Carolina’s pitching staff. With the victory, the Tar Heels advanced in the winner’s bracket and moved within one win of the College World Series Finals.
OMAHA, Neb. — No. 3 Georgia opened its 2026 College World Series run in impressive fashion Saturday night, defeating No. 6 Texas 7–1 at Charles Schwab Field. Behind a historic complete-game performance from Joey Volchko and an early offensive surge, the Bulldogs advanced into the winner’s bracket while sending the Longhorns into an elimination game. Georgia improved to 52–12 on the season, tying the school record for victories set by the 1990 national championship team. Texas fell to 45–14 and faced a must-win matchup against Alabama to keep its season alive. Bulldogs Capitalize on First-Inning Opportunities Georgia wasted little time taking control of the contest. After Tre Phelps reached on a leadoff walk, sophomore center fielder Rylan Lujo launched a two-run home run that struck the foul pole in left field, giving the Bulldogs an immediate 2–0 lead. The blast was Lujo’s 14th home run of the season and set the tone for Georgia’s aggressive offensive approach. The Bulldogs continued to apply pressure throughout the inning. Texas defensive miscues, two wild pitches, and multiple free baserunners allowed Georgia to extend the advantage to 4–0 before many fans had settled into their seats. The early cushion proved more than enough with Volchko on the mound. Volantis Settles In for Texas Despite the difficult opening inning, Texas starter Dylan Volantis quickly regrouped and delivered an impressive outing. The left-hander retired 16 of the next 18 Georgia batters after the first inning and held the Bulldogs hitless from the second through much of the seventh inning. Volantis worked a career-high 111 pitches while striking out nine batters over 6.1 innings. His effort kept Texas within striking distance for much of the game despite receiving little offensive support. Unfortunately for the Longhorns, Georgia’s starting pitcher was even better. Volchko Delivers Historic Performance Junior right-hander Joey Volchko authored one of the finest pitching performances in College World Series history. Volchko threw a complete-game four-hitter, allowing just one unearned run while striking out a career-high 15 batters. His 15 strikeouts established a new Georgia College World Series record and represented the highest strikeout total by a Bulldog pitcher in Omaha. The dominant outing marked Georgia’s first nine-inning complete game of the season and the program’s first complete game in the College World Series since Mike Rebhan accomplished the feat during Georgia’s 1990 national championship run. Volchko struck out the side in both the first and fourth innings and consistently overpowered one of the nation’s most dangerous offensive lineups. Texas Struggles to Generate Offense The Longhorns never found a consistent answer against Volchko. Adrian Rodriguez and Ethan Mendoza each collected two hits, accounting for all four Texas hits on the night. The Longhorns managed their only run on an unearned scoring play and were unable to capitalize on limited opportunities throughout the contest. Texas entered Omaha as one of the nation’s top offensive teams but was held in check by Volchko’s command and Georgia’s defensive execution. The 15 strikeouts matched one of the highest totals recorded against Texas this season. Bulldogs Pull Away Late While Volchko controlled the game on the mound, Georgia added critical insurance runs during the seventh inning. Lujo continued his outstanding night by lining an RBI double to extend the lead. Moments later, Kenny Ishikawa delivered a two-run single that pushed the advantage to 7–1 and effectively ended any hopes of a Longhorn comeback. Lujo finished with three RBIs, while Ishikawa’s clutch hit helped Georgia create the final margin. The Bulldogs scored seven runs despite recording only a handful of hits, taking advantage of Texas mistakes and timely situational hitting. Georgia Continues Historic Season The victory represented another milestone in Georgia’s remarkable season. The Bulldogs improved to 52 wins, tying the program record established by the 1990 national championship team. Georgia also recorded its 31st victory of the season while holding an opponent to three runs or fewer, continuing a trend of dominant pitching and defense. Head coach Wes Johnson praised Volchko’s performance afterward, calling it one of the most impressive complete-game efforts he had witnessed. The Bulldogs advanced to face Oklahoma in a winner’s bracket showdown. Texas Faces Elimination Despite the loss, Texas remained alive in Omaha. The Longhorns received a quality start from Volantis and continued to show flashes of the offensive potential that carried them to the College World Series. However, the first-inning mistakes and inability to solve Volchko ultimately proved costly. Texas entered an elimination game against Alabama needing a victory to extend its season. Final Takeaway Georgia’s 7–1 victory over Texas was defined by Joey Volchko’s historic complete-game performance, timely hitting, and an explosive opening inning. The Bulldogs established control early and never allowed the Longhorns back into the game. Texas battled behind Dylan Volantis but could not overcome early defensive mistakes or generate enough offense against one of the best pitching performances of the College World Series. With the victory, Georgia advanced in the winner’s bracket and moved two wins away from the national championship series.
OMAHA, Neb. — No. 5 national seed North Carolina opened its College World Series run with a 6–2 victory over Ole Miss on Friday night at Charles Schwab Field. The Tar Heels used a late offensive surge, highlighted by Colin Hynek’s three-run home run, to overcome an early deficit and remain undefeated through the opening round of play in Omaha. North Carolina improved to 51–12–1 and advanced in the winner’s bracket, while Ole Miss fell to 41–22 and was pushed into an elimination game. The victory marked the Rebels’ first loss of the NCAA Tournament after entering Omaha on a five-game postseason winning streak. Rebels Strike First Ole Miss grabbed the early advantage in the third inning. Brayden Randle opened the frame with a double down the left-field line and later advanced to third base. Dom Decker followed with a run-scoring double into the left-center gap, giving the Rebels a 1–0 lead. The hit continued a strong night for Decker, who finished with two doubles and drove in one of Ole Miss’ two runs. Meanwhile, Rebel starter Taylor Rabe kept North Carolina’s offense in check through the early innings. Rabe Controls the Tar Heel Lineup For much of the game, Ole Miss appeared to be in control behind an impressive outing from Rabe. The right-hander worked 5.2 innings, allowing just one run on two hits while striking out seven batters. He repeatedly escaped difficult situations, stranding runners in scoring position and preventing North Carolina from generating momentum offensively. Rabe’s performance helped Ole Miss carry its lead deep into the game despite limited run support. The Rebels also received multiple defensive stops that kept the Tar Heels from breaking through during the middle innings. Hull Changes the Momentum North Carolina finally found an answer in the sixth inning. After Ole Miss stranded runners on second and third in the top half of the inning, Owen Hull stepped to the plate and delivered a game-changing swing. The junior blasted an opposite-field solo home run to left field, tying the score at 1–1. The homer was especially notable given the reputation of Charles Schwab Field as one of college baseball’s most pitcher-friendly venues. Hull’s blast energized the Tar Heels and shifted momentum toward North Carolina for the first time all night. Rebels Retake the Lead Ole Miss responded immediately in the seventh inning. Decker recorded his second double of the game, chasing North Carolina starter Jason DeCaro from the contest. Moments later, Judd Utermark lined a two-out RBI single into left-center field, bringing Decker home and giving the Rebels a 2–1 advantage. The hit appeared to restore control to Ole Miss and put the Rebels six outs away from victory. Instead, North Carolina answered again. Tar Heels Rally in the Seventh The bottom of the seventh inning proved to be the turning point. Tyler Howe and Colin Hynek drew consecutive walks to start the frame, immediately creating pressure on the Ole Miss bullpen. Jake Schaffner followed with a sacrifice fly that tied the game at 2–2. Later in the inning, Gavin Gallaher delivered a clutch two-out RBI single up the middle, scoring the go-ahead run and giving North Carolina its first lead of the night at 3–2. The Tar Heels had erased another deficit and suddenly found themselves three outs away from victory. Hynek Delivers the Knockout Blow North Carolina removed all doubt in the eighth inning. After Tyler Howe and Cooper Nicholson reached base, Hynek stepped to the plate with two runners aboard. The graduate catcher crushed a three-run home run to left-center field, extending the Tar Heels’ lead to 6–2. The blast capped a five-run stretch across the final three innings and effectively ended Ole Miss’ comeback hopes. Hynek’s home run represented the biggest hit of the game and one of the defining moments of North Carolina’s postseason run. DeCaro and Glauber Shine on the Mound North Carolina received outstanding pitching throughout the contest. Jason DeCaro worked 6.2 innings, allowing two runs while striking out nine batters to match a career high. The right-hander repeatedly escaped difficult situations and kept the Tar Heels within striking distance until the offense broke through. After DeCaro exited, freshman standout Caden Glauber took over. Glauber tossed 2.1 scoreless innings while striking out two batters and earning the victory. The Tar Heels remained undefeated this season when Glauber appeared, continuing one of the most remarkable trends in college baseball. Ole Miss Falls Into Elimination Bracket Despite outhitting North Carolina 8–5, Ole Miss could not overcome six walks issued by its pitching staff and the two late home runs from Hull and Hynek. Decker and Owen Paino each recorded two hits, while Utermark drove in the Rebels’ second run. However, Ole Miss struggled to capitalize on several scoring opportunities and managed only one run after the third inning. The loss sent the Rebels into an elimination game, where their season eventually came to an end against Troy. North Carolina Advances With the victory, North Carolina improved to 6–1 in the NCAA Tournament and continued one of the strongest seasons in program history. The Tar Heels advanced to face West Virginia in the winner’s bracket and positioned themselves just two wins away from reaching the College World Series Finals. Final Takeaway North Carolina’s 6–2 victory over Ole Miss showcased the resilience that has defined the Tar Heels throughout the season. Trailing in the late innings, North Carolina responded with timely hitting, dominant relief pitching, and two critical home runs from Owen Hull and Colin Hynek. Ole Miss controlled much of the game but could not contain North Carolina’s late offensive surge. With the win, the Tar Heels advanced in the College World Series and continued their pursuit of a national championship.
Oklahoma Dominates Kansas to Clinch College World Series Berth LAWRENCE, Kan. — Oklahoma is headed back to Omaha after a commanding 13–2 victory over No. 15 seed Kansas on Monday afternoon in the NCAA Lawrence Super Regional. The Sooners completed a two-game sweep of the Jayhawks and secured their 12th Men's College World Series appearance in program history. The game resumed Monday after severe weather suspended play Sunday night with Oklahoma already holding an 8–1 lead. The Sooners picked up right where they left off, adding five more runs and overwhelming Kansas to advance to the College World Series for the second time in five years. Sooners Strike Early Oklahoma wasted little time establishing control. The Sooners scored in the first inning before Kansas briefly tied the game in the second on a two-out RBI single from Jordan Bach. The tie lasted only moments as Oklahoma erupted in the bottom half of the inning. A six-run second inning completely shifted the game. Dasan Harris delivered an RBI single, Kyle Branch added a squeeze bunt that brought home another run, and Camden Johnson drew a bases-loaded walk. Deiten Lachance then lined a two-run single before another bases-loaded hit-by-pitch capped the offensive outburst. By the end of the inning, Oklahoma held a commanding 7–1 advantage. Weather Delay Interrupts Momentum The Sooners added another run in the third inning when Dayton Tockey blasted a solo home run to right-center field, extending the lead to 8–1. Shortly afterward, severe weather moved into the Lawrence area and forced a suspension of play. The game resumed Monday afternoon with Oklahoma still firmly in control. Rather than slowing down after the overnight delay, the Sooners continued their offensive surge once play resumed. Home Run Barrage Puts Game Away Oklahoma effectively ended any hopes of a Kansas comeback during the sixth inning. Lachance launched a two-run home run before Harris followed moments later with another two-run blast. The back-to-back power display extended the lead to 12–1 and showcased the offensive firepower that has fueled Oklahoma’s postseason run. The Sooners added another insurance run in the eighth inning when Trey Gambill connected for a solo homer, pushing the lead to 13–2. The four-home-run performance continued a remarkable stretch in which Oklahoma hit seven homers during the Super Regional and 18 across seven NCAA Tournament games. Lachance Leads the Offensive Attack Lachance delivered one of the biggest performances of the afternoon. The catcher finished 2-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs, tying his season high in run production. His two-run single during the second inning helped ignite Oklahoma’s largest rally, while his sixth-inning homer effectively put the game out of reach. Harris added three RBIs and a home run, while Tockey and Gambill each contributed solo shots. Brendan Brock and Jason Walk also collected two hits apiece as Oklahoma’s lineup produced offense from top to bottom. The balanced attack generated 13 runs on another dominant day at the plate. Mercurius and Bullpen Deliver While the offense stole the headlines, Oklahoma received another strong performance on the mound. Freshman starter Xander Mercurius worked four innings, allowing one run on three hits while striking out six batters. The right-hander continued his impressive postseason run and gave the Sooners exactly what they needed from the starting role. Nate Smithburg followed with 3.2 strong innings of relief, allowing only one hit and one run while earning the victory. Jason Bodin and Jackson Cleveland combined to finish the final innings and secure the series-clinching win. The pitching staff limited Kansas to just four hits all afternoon. Kansas Season Ends After Historic Year Despite the disappointing finish, Kansas completed one of the greatest seasons in school history. The Jayhawks finished 45–18, tying the school record for wins originally established in 1993. Kansas also hosted both an NCAA Regional and Super Regional for the first time in program history. Tyson LeBlanc provided one of the few offensive highlights with a solo home run in the eighth inning, his school-record 25th homer of the season. Bach also drove in a run during the second inning. Kansas concluded the year having set school records for conference victories, home runs, and pitching strikeouts while establishing itself among the nation’s top programs. Oklahoma Returns to Omaha The victory marked another milestone for head coach Skip Johnson and the Oklahoma program. The Sooners advanced to their 12th College World Series appearance and their first since finishing as national runner-up in 2022. Oklahoma also became one of only eight teams remaining in the pursuit of a national championship. The Sooners will open College World Series play against Alabama in Omaha. Final Takeaway Oklahoma’s 13–2 victory over Kansas was defined by overwhelming offense, dominant pitching, and relentless pressure throughout the game. The Sooners built an early lead, never allowed the Jayhawks to recover, and continued one of the most impressive postseason runs in the country. Kansas closed a historic season with a Super Regional appearance, but Oklahoma’s power and depth proved too much to overcome. With the win, the Sooners advanced to the Men’s College World Series and moved one step closer to competing for a national championship.
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina punched its ticket to Omaha in dramatic fashion Sunday night, rallying late to defeat USC 4–3 in the deciding game of the Chapel Hill Super Regional at Boshamer Stadium. Owen Hull delivered the game-winning RBI double in the bottom of the ninth inning as the Tar Heels secured their 13th Men's College World Series appearance and their second under head coach Scott Forbes. The victory improved North Carolina to 50–12–1 and completed a remarkable comeback after dropping Game 1 of the series. The Tar Heels became the first North Carolina team to lose the opening game of a Super Regional and still advance to Omaha. USC concluded its outstanding season at 48–18 after coming within two outs of its first College World Series appearance since 2001. Trojans Strike First USC wasted little time grabbing the early advantage. In the opening inning, the Trojans manufactured a run after a leadoff double and a balk by North Carolina starter Caden Glauber allowed the runner to score from third base. The early run gave USC a 1–0 lead before many fans had settled into their seats. Despite the shaky start, Glauber quickly settled in and began attacking the strike zone. Over the next two innings, the freshman struck out five of seven batters and regained control against a dangerous Trojan lineup. Hull Delivers Early Answer North Carolina responded in the third inning. Jake Schaffner reached base before Hull drove a double down the right-field line, bringing home the tying run and evening the score at 1–1. The hit continued a strong postseason run for Hull, who would later become the hero of the night. The tie was short-lived, however, as USC quickly answered. Kevin Takeuchi launched a solo home run in the fourth inning to restore the Trojans’ lead at 2–1. One inning later, Andrew Lamb added another solo shot, extending the advantage to 3–1 and putting USC in position to close out the series. Glauber Keeps Carolina Within Reach Although USC held the lead, Glauber delivered one of the best performances of his young career. The freshman worked seven innings while recording a career-high 10 strikeouts. His 10 punchouts were the most by a North Carolina pitcher in an NCAA Tournament game since Patrick Johnson accomplished the feat during the 2011 Chapel Hill Regional. Despite surrendering three runs, Glauber consistently limited further damage and gave the Tar Heels an opportunity to mount a comeback. His outing proved critical as North Carolina searched for offense against USC starter Andrew Johnson. Johnson Dominates Through Seven Innings USC received an outstanding performance from Johnson. The Trojan right-hander held North Carolina in check for 7.2 innings and repeatedly escaped difficult situations. Johnson allowed only one run through seven innings and carried a two-run lead into the late stages of the game. For much of the evening, it appeared his effort would send USC to Omaha. The Trojans also received strong defensive support while protecting the lead deep into the contest. Tar Heels Begin the Rally North Carolina finally broke through in the eighth inning. Hull reached scoring position once again before Macon Winslow delivered a clutch hit off the wall in center field, driving home Hull and trimming the deficit to 3–2. The run injected life into the Boshamer Stadium crowd and gave the Tar Heels momentum entering the final inning. USC escaped additional damage in the eighth and carried a one-run lead into the ninth inning. With only three outs remaining in its season, North Carolina needed one final rally. Boshamer Magic Strikes Again The Tar Heels delivered when it mattered most. Cooper Nicholson opened the ninth by drawing a walk, bringing the tying run aboard. Carter French followed with a single, placing runners on the corners with one out. Schaffner then lifted a sacrifice fly to center field, allowing Nicholson to score and tying the game at 3–3. USC elected to pitch carefully afterward, issuing another walk that brought Hull to the plate with two runners aboard. Hull, who had already doubled three times during the game, delivered once more. On a 1–1 pitch, he ripped a double into left field, scoring French from second base and touching off a celebration as North Carolina completed the walk-off victory. The hit secured one of the most dramatic wins in recent program history. Hull Leads the Tar Heels Hull emerged as the star of the night for North Carolina. The junior recorded four doubles and drove in two runs, including both the game-tying and game-winning scoring plays. His performance fueled the Tar Heels’ comeback and capped one of the strongest postseason outings of his career. Schaffner also played a major role offensively, scoring and driving in key runs during the late innings. Together, the duo helped lead North Carolina back from a two-run deficit. USC Season Ends in Heartbreak Despite the loss, USC completed one of its best seasons in more than two decades. The Trojans finished 48–18 and reached the Super Regional round for the first time since 2005. The 48 victories marked the program’s highest win total since 1998 and reflected the continued growth under head coach Andy Stankiewicz. Takeuchi and Lamb each homered in the decisive game, while Johnson delivered a performance worthy of a victory. Ultimately, the Trojans could not hold off North Carolina’s late surge. Omaha Awaits The win sent North Carolina to the College World Series for the ninth time since 2006, tying for the most appearances nationally during that span. The Tar Heels also secured Scott Forbes’ 250th career victory as head coach. North Carolina advanced to Omaha and earned a matchup with Ole Miss in the opening round of the College World Series. Final Takeaway North Carolina’s 4–3 victory over USC was defined by resilience, clutch hitting, and a dramatic ninth-inning comeback. Trailing by two runs entering the eighth inning, the Tar Heels refused to let their season end and produced one final rally in front of a packed Boshamer Stadium crowd. USC received outstanding pitching and held the lead for much of the night, but North Carolina’s late execution proved decisive. With the walk-off victory, the Tar Heels advanced to the College World Series and continued one of the most successful seasons in program history.
LOS ANGELES — UCLA’s season was down to its final three outs Saturday evening, but the Bruins delivered another dramatic comeback, scoring three runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to defeat Virginia Tech 6–5 in an NCAA Los Angeles Regional elimination game at Jackie Robinson Stadium. The victory kept the top-seeded Bruins alive in the NCAA Tournament and improved their record to 52–7. Virginia Tech finished its season at 30–26 after coming within a few outs of one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Hokies Strike First Virginia Tech opened the scoring in the third inning and immediately put pressure on UCLA. Sam Grube delivered an RBI single to give the Hokies a 1–0 lead after Virginia Tech generated early traffic on the bases. The advantage held through the middle innings as Hokie starter Brett Renfrow worked effectively against one of the nation’s most explosive offenses. Renfrow consistently escaped difficult situations, stranding runners in both the first and third innings to preserve the lead. Bruins Respond with Power UCLA answered in the fourth inning when Cashel Dugger launched a solo home run to tie the game at 1–1. The Bruins continued the rally moments later as Phoenix Call and Jarred Hocking delivered back-to-back doubles, giving UCLA its first lead of the contest at 2–1. The sequence shifted momentum toward the Bruins and energized the home crowd. Virginia Tech responded immediately in the fifth inning. Owen Petrich connected on a solo home run to tie the game at 2–2, continuing a trend that would define much of the contest. UCLA answered once again in the bottom half when Will Gasparino launched his 20th home run of the season, restoring a one-run lead at 3–2. Home Runs Fuel Virginia Tech Comeback The Hokies continued to battle and relied heavily on the long ball to regain momentum. Ethan Gibson opened the seventh inning with a solo home run that tied the game at 3–3. One inning later, Ethan Ball delivered another clutch solo blast, giving Virginia Tech a 4–3 advantage with only six outs remaining. Virginia Tech appeared to gain full control in the ninth inning. Gibson led off with a double before Hudson Lutterman lined an RBI single into right field, extending the Hokies’ lead to 5–3 and putting UCLA on the brink of elimination. At that point, the Bruins were down to their final opportunity to keep their season alive. Bruins Deliver Stunning Ninth-Inning Rally What followed became one of the most dramatic moments of the NCAA Tournament. Mulivai Levu opened the bottom of the ninth inning by crushing a solo home run to cut the deficit to 5–4. Before Virginia Tech could recover, Roman Martin stepped to the plate and immediately followed with another solo homer. Two pitches and two swings later, the game was tied at 5–5. The Bruins were not finished. Will Gasparino followed with a single and advanced into scoring position when Dominic Cadiz delivered a pinch-hit base hit. With runners on the corners and one out, Phoenix Call stepped to the plate and lined a single into left field. Gasparino raced home with the winning run, completing UCLA’s incredible comeback and sending the Bruins into celebration. Call Delivers Another Walk-Off Moment The game-winning hit added to an already remarkable stretch for Phoenix Call. The walk-off single marked his second game-winning hit in UCLA’s previous three games and capped the Bruins’ 30th comeback victory of the season. Throughout the year, UCLA repeatedly demonstrated an ability to recover from deficits, and Saturday’s performance may have been its most dramatic example. Call also contributed offensively earlier in the game with a double during UCLA’s fourth-inning rally. Barnett Keeps Bruins Within Reach While the late comeback stole the headlines, UCLA received a strong start from Michael Barnett. The senior right-hander worked six innings, allowing only three hits and three runs while striking out five batters. Two of the runs he surrendered came via solo home runs, but he consistently limited Virginia Tech’s opportunities throughout his outing. His performance allowed UCLA to remain within striking distance before the late rally unfolded. Easton Hawk earned the victory after working the ninth inning and recording two strikeouts. Virginia Tech’s Season Ends in Heartbreak Virginia Tech played well enough to win for much of the evening. The Hokies received quality pitching from Renfrow and generated offense through Petrich, Gibson, Ball, and Lutterman. Their three solo home runs helped build a late lead, and the team was only three outs away from eliminating the tournament’s top overall seed. Instead, UCLA’s dramatic rally brought the Hokies’ season to an abrupt end. Virginia Tech finished the year with 30 victories and nearly produced one of the most significant postseason upsets in recent NCAA Tournament history. Key Moments Define the Game The game was defined by the dramatic momentum swings that occurred throughout the final innings. Virginia Tech repeatedly answered UCLA’s rallies with home runs and appeared to secure the victory after Lutterman’s RBI single in the ninth. However, back-to-back homers from Levu and Martin instantly erased the deficit and shifted momentum completely. Call’s walk-off single completed the comeback and delivered one of the tournament’s most memorable finishes. Final Takeaway UCLA’s 6–5 victory over Virginia Tech showcased the resilience that has defined the Bruins throughout the season. Facing elimination and trailing by two runs in the ninth inning, UCLA responded with consecutive home runs and a walk-off hit to extend its season. Virginia Tech came within moments of eliminating the nation’s top overall seed but could not withstand UCLA’s final rally. With the victory, the Bruins survived another day in the NCAA Tournament and continued their pursuit of a national championship.
AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn kept its NCAA Tournament hopes alive Saturday afternoon, outslugging NC State 17–13 in one of the highest-scoring games of the 2026 NCAA Baseball Tournament. The Tigers blasted five home runs and scored eight runs in the opening inning to eliminate the Wolfpack from the Auburn Regional at Plainsman Park. Auburn improved to 39–20 on the season and advanced in the elimination bracket, while NC State’s season ended at 32–24. The loss also marked the conclusion of legendary head coach Elliott Avent’s 30-year career leading the Wolfpack program. Tigers Erupt for Eight Runs in First Inning Facing elimination after a loss earlier in the regional, Auburn came out aggressively from the opening pitch. Mason McCraine opened the game with a single before Chase Fralick delivered a three-run home run just three batters into the contest. The Tigers continued to pile on runs as Chris Rembert, Bub Terrell, Ethin Bingaman, and Taylor Belza all contributed offensively during a massive first inning. By the time the frame ended, Auburn had scored eight runs on seven hits and sent 13 batters to the plate. The offensive outburst immediately placed NC State in a deep hole and changed the tone of the game. Auburn Extends Lead Early The Tigers continued their offensive assault in the second inning. Cade Belyeu launched a two-run home run to push Auburn’s lead to 10–0 and seemingly put the game out of reach. The homer was particularly notable for Belyeu, who entered the contest with only one home run on the season before delivering two against the Wolfpack. At that point, Auburn appeared firmly in control, but NC State refused to go away quietly. Wolfpack Mount Early Comeback NC State responded with one of its most impressive rallies of the season. The Wolfpack scored two runs in the second inning before erupting for five more in the third. Taking advantage of two Auburn throwing errors, NC State steadily chipped away at the deficit before Dalton Bargo launched a two-run home run that cut the lead to 10–7. The comeback energized the Wolfpack dugout and briefly shifted momentum toward the visitors. Bargo finished the afternoon with four RBIs and was one of several NC State hitters who produced big offensive numbers. Despite trimming the deficit to three runs, NC State could not complete the comeback. Auburn Answers with More Power Every time NC State threatened, Auburn responded. The Tigers regained control in the fourth inning when Ethin Bingaman launched his second home run of the game, extending the lead to 12–7. Bingaman finished 3-for-5 with three RBIs and three runs scored while recording his third multi-home run game of the season. The offensive pressure continued in the sixth inning. Belyeu crushed his second home run of the afternoon before Fralick delivered a two-run double and Rembert added an RBI single. The five-run inning pushed Auburn’s lead to 17–7 and created enough separation to withstand another NC State rally. Fralick Delivers Career Day Few players were more impactful than Chase Fralick. The Auburn outfielder finished with a career-high six RBIs while reaching base repeatedly throughout the game. His three-run homer in the first inning ignited the Tigers’ offense, and his two-run double in the sixth inning helped put the game away. Fralick’s production was critical in Auburn’s season-saving victory and highlighted the depth of the Tigers’ lineup. NC State Continues Fighting Despite trailing by 10 runs entering the later innings, NC State continued to battle. The Wolfpack scored two runs in the sixth inning and added four more in the seventh. Luke Nixon delivered another strong offensive performance, extending his hitting streak to 15 games, while Bargo continued to drive in runs. Freshman Vincent DeCarlo provided one of the bright spots for NC State, hitting the first home run of his collegiate career during regional competition. Christian Serrano also contributed an RBI during the late rally. The Wolfpack eventually scored six runs after trailing 17–7, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. Alvarez Earns Milestone Victory Auburn starter Andreas Alvarez benefited from the Tigers’ offensive explosion despite a challenging outing. The right-hander worked 5.2 innings, allowing nine runs, although only four were earned because of defensive miscues. Alvarez threw 105 pitches and became the first Auburn pitcher since Casey Mize in 2018 to record 10 wins in a season. After Alvarez exited, Auburn used multiple relievers before turning to All-SEC closer Jackson Sanders. Sanders recorded the final seven outs and helped secure the victory despite continued pressure from the Wolfpack offense. End of an Era for NC State The defeat brought an emotional conclusion to one of the most successful coaching careers in college baseball history. Elliott Avent finished his 30-year tenure at NC State with 1,103 victories at the school and 1,327 overall wins. He leaves as the winningest coach in program history and one of the most respected figures in the sport. The Wolfpack also finished the season among the nation’s top offensive teams and recorded 100 stolen bases, the second-highest total in program history. Auburn Survives and Advances The victory allowed Auburn to continue its postseason run and remain alive in the Auburn Regional. After suffering a disappointing loss to Milwaukee in the regional opener, the Tigers responded with one of their most explosive offensive performances of the season. Auburn’s five home runs, 17 runs, and relentless offensive pressure helped keep its season alive. Final Takeaway Auburn’s 17–13 victory over NC State was defined by an explosive first inning, five home runs, and timely responses whenever the Wolfpack threatened to rally. The Tigers built a massive early lead and generated enough offense to survive a game that featured 30 combined runs. NC State showed resilience throughout the afternoon but ultimately could not overcome the early deficit. With the victory, Auburn advanced in the NCAA Tournament and continued its postseason journey, while NC State’s season and the remarkable coaching career of Elliott Avent came to an end.
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — No. 5 national seed North Carolina opened NCAA Tournament play with another commanding performance Friday night, shutting out VCU 8–0 at Bryson Field at Boshamer Stadium in the opening game of the NCAA Chapel Hill Regional. The Tar Heels received seven scoreless innings from Ryan Lynch and used a balanced offensive attack to advance in the winner’s bracket. North Carolina improved to 46–11–1 on the season and moved one step closer to advancing through its home regional. VCU fell to 37–24 and dropped into the elimination bracket, where the Rams faced a must-win game to keep their season alive. Tar Heels Strike Quickly in Opening Inning North Carolina wasted little time establishing control of the contest. After Gavin Gallaher reached base with a two-out single, Erik Paulsen delivered a clutch two-run double that brought home both Gallaher and Macon Winslow. Moments later, Cooper Nicholson lined an RBI single to left field, extending the lead to 3–0 before VCU could settle into the game. The three-run first inning marked North Carolina’s highest-scoring opening frame in an NCAA Regional opener since 2013 and immediately shifted momentum toward the host Tar Heels. Lynch Dominates on the Mound While the offense provided early support, Ryan Lynch delivered one of his strongest outings of the season. The right-hander worked seven scoreless innings, allowing only two hits while striking out five batters. Lynch navigated occasional traffic on the bases but consistently made key pitches whenever VCU threatened. The Rams managed only two hits against Lynch and were unable to generate sustained offensive momentum throughout his outing. His 108 pitches represented a career-high workload and demonstrated the confidence North Carolina had in its veteran starter. The performance gave the Tar Heels exactly what they needed from their ace in postseason competition. Nicholson Adds Insurance with Solo Home Run North Carolina extended its lead in the third inning thanks to the power bat of Cooper Nicholson. The junior launched a solo home run to left field, his 16th homer of the season, pushing the advantage to 4–0. The 355-foot blast continued Nicholson’s strong offensive season and provided additional breathing room for the Tar Heels. Nicholson finished the night with three hits and continued to be one of the catalysts in North Carolina’s lineup. His early home run proved more than enough support given the way the Tar Heels’ pitching staff performed. VCU Unable to Capitalize on Opportunities Despite the final score, VCU had several opportunities to create offense during the middle innings. The Rams placed runners in scoring position multiple times but struggled to deliver the timely hit needed to cut into the deficit. Nate Kirkpatrick and Jacob Lee accounted for VCU’s only two hits of the game. Lee extended both his hitting streak and on-base streak, while Michael Petite reached base twice via walks. However, the Rams were shut out for the first time all season against one of the nation’s top pitching staffs. North Carolina’s defense also played a critical role, turning a key double play in the sixth inning to help Lynch escape the only significant threat of the game. Tar Heels Break It Open Late North Carolina put the game away in the eighth inning with a four-run outburst. Colin Hynek scored the inning’s first run when Jake Schaffner delivered an RBI single into right-center field. Moments later, Owen Hull tripled down the right-field line to drive in Schaffner and extend the lead. Gallaher followed with an RBI single before Paulsen added his third RBI of the night with another run-scoring base hit. By the end of the inning, the Tar Heels had built an 8–0 advantage and effectively ended any hopes of a VCU comeback. The late offensive surge highlighted the depth that has made North Carolina one of the nation’s most dangerous lineups. Bullpen Completes the Shutout After Lynch exited following seven scoreless innings, North Carolina’s bullpen finished the job. Walker McDuffie worked a clean eighth inning before Matthew Matthijs dominated the ninth, striking out the side to complete the shutout. The combined effort secured North Carolina’s second consecutive shutout victory in an NCAA Regional opener. The performance further reinforced the strength of a pitching staff that has been one of the team’s biggest assets throughout the season. Paulsen Leads Balanced Offensive Attack North Carolina’s offense featured contributions throughout the lineup. Paulsen finished with three RBIs, highlighted by his first-inning two-run double and eighth-inning RBI single. Nicholson recorded three hits, including his solo home run, while Gallaher reached base four times and scored multiple runs. Schaffner, Hull, and Winslow also contributed key hits as the Tar Heels produced offense in both the early and late innings. The balanced production allowed North Carolina to maintain pressure on VCU pitching throughout the evening. North Carolina Advances in Winner’s Bracket With the victory, North Carolina advanced to face East Carolina in the winner’s bracket of the Chapel Hill Regional. The Tar Heels improved to 29–7 all-time in NCAA Tournament games played at Boshamer Stadium and continued their pursuit of a College World Series berth. VCU moved into an elimination game against Tennessee, needing a victory to keep its season alive. Final Takeaway North Carolina’s 8–0 victory over VCU showcased the complete formula that has made the Tar Heels one of the nation’s top teams. Ryan Lynch dominated on the mound, the defense made key plays, and the offense delivered timely hits throughout the game. VCU battled but could not solve North Carolina’s pitching staff and struggled to capitalize on limited opportunities. With the win, the Tar Heels advanced in the NCAA Chapel Hill Regional and continued their march toward Omaha.