UCLA Softball’s Championship Run Comes to an End in Exciting Pac-12 Showdown

The 2024 Women’s College World Series came to an end on Sunday, as No. 6 UCLA softball’s run for the championship came to a close. The final Pac-12 softball game of the season was delayed by weather but delivered an exciting match as No. 8 Stanford emerged victorious with a score of 3-1 at Devon Park on Sunday night. This game marked the last “Pac-12 after dark” event in softball history.

Despite UCLA’s early lead with a solo home run from Megan Grant in the second inning, Stanford pitcher NiJaree Canady proved to be a formidable opponent. Taryn Kern’s double in the third inning tied the game at 1-1, and Ava Gall’s single brought the Cardinal ahead. Stanford secured an insurance run in the fifth inning with a sacrifice fly from Allie Clements, leaving UCLA struggling to keep up.

UCLA freshman pitcher Kaitlyn Terry took the loss, and Maya Brady struggled at the plate with three strikeouts. Brady concluded her collegiate career with impressive stats, including 279 hits, 71 home runs, and 246 RBIs in 248 games. Despite UCLA’s late rally in the seventh inning, Canady shut down their efforts, securing the win with eight strikeouts and only allowing one run and four hits.

UCLA finished their season with a 43-12 overall record and 17-4 in Pac-12 play, while Stanford advanced to face No. 1 overall Texas. In the first elimination game of the day, Florida defeated SEC rival Alabama, setting up a matchup with defending champion Oklahoma for a spot in the semifinals. Both Stanford and Florida would need to win two more games to reach the championship series while Texas and Oklahoma only require one victory.

In conclusion, No. 6 UCLA softball’s run at the Women’s College World Series ended on Sunday as they faced off against No