News Summary
In an unexpected turn of events, the 11th-seed Clemson Tigers secured a victory against the 3rd-seed Texas Longhorns, winning 7-4 in the opening game of the Austin Super Regional. Key performances included Julia Knowler driving in critical runs and Alex Brown’s strong batting. Despite Texas’s early lead and several attempts to rally back, Clemson maintained the lead throughout the match. With this loss, Texas faces a must-win scenario in their next game to keep their hopes alive for the Women’s College World Series.
Austin, Texas – In a stunning upset during the opening game of the Austin Super Regional, the 11th-seed Clemson Tigers defeated the 3rd-seed Texas Longhorns 7-4 on Thursday night at McCombs Field. This victory solidified Clemson’s impressive season record of 48-12 while handing Texas a setback, reducing their record to 49-11.
Clemson capitalized on several key plays to secure their win. Notably, Julia Knowler drove in two runs during a critical bases-loaded situation, enhancing Clemson’s lead. Additionally, Alex Brown contributed significantly, going 3-for-4 at the plate, proving vital in pushing the Tigers forward.
The game began with Texas gaining an early advantage when Mia Scott singled, allowing Kayden Henry to score. However, a throwing error by Clemson pitcher Reese Basinger on this play was pivotal, as Henry was initially ruled out on a close infield play but was reinstated following a successful challenge from Texas. This opening score gave the Longhorns a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning.
Clemson responded strongly, with Marian Collins hitting a two-run double in the top of the third, scoring Kunzie Moore and Kennedy Ariail to give the Tigers a 3-1 lead. Following that, Maddie Moore extended the lead to 4-2 with a ground ball, but the Longhorns fought back when Scott hit a solo homer in the third inning, bringing Texas within one run at 3-2.
After a significant rain delay lasting one hour and 31 minutes, triggered by lightning shortly after the first at-bat, the game resumed with a tense atmosphere. Despite the challenges, Clemson maintained their composure and grew their advantage with another run, solidifying their lead over the Longhorns.
Despite posting four hits in a single inning late in the game, Texas could not surpass Clemson’s lead. The Longhorns showed late-game resilience but fell short, further complicated by a fielding error from Kaydee Bennett, who, despite performing well after a position change, misplayed a ball in the outfield, impacting the team’s momentum.
Reese Basinger earned the win for Clemson, pitching four innings and allowing six hits, improving her season record to 18-5. Brooke McCubbin secured her fifth save by holding Texas scoreless over three innings. Meanwhile, the loss went to Longhorns pitcher Teagan Kavan, resulting in a 23-5 record for her season.
With this loss, the Longhorns face a do-or-die situation as they must win game two on Friday to keep their hopes alive for a return to the Women’s College World Series, a repeat from the previous year where they made significant strides. Reese Atwood and Katie Stewart struggled offensively, combining for an 0-for-7 performance throughout the match, hampering Texas’ efforts.
This matchup is critical for Texas, as they aim for not only a return to the Women’s College World Series but also their first national championship. The two teams will clash again Friday for a chance at advancing, with a highlight on the importance of strategic play and overcoming previous errors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Weather Delays NCAA Super Regional Game Between Texas and Clemson
Clemson Tigers Defeat Texas Longhorns in NCAA Super Regional
Longhorns and Tigers Set to Clash in NCAA Super Regional
Texas Longhorns Aim for Women’s College World Series Spot
University of Texas at Austin Ranks Second in Texas Colleges
University of Texas to Host Free Concert with Pat Green
Texas Longhorns Dominate Clemson With Unstoppable Run Game in Playoff Clash
Texas Longhorns Triumph Over Clemson in College Football Playoff Opener
Austin’s College Football Playoff Showdown: Texas Triumphs Over Clemson in Thrilling Clash
Austin Football Fans Gear Up for Thrilling 2025 Season as Texas Football Schedule is Unveiled
Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman: Texas vs Clemson Score Update
- Wikipedia: Clemson University
- USA Today: Texas vs Clemson Super Regional Weather Updates
- Google Search: Texas Longhorns Softball
- Burnt Orange Nation: Texas vs Clemson Softball Preview
- Google Scholar: College Softball
- Austin American-Statesman: Texas vs Clemson Weather Delay
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Women’s College World Series
- USA Today: Texas Softball NCAA Tournament Live Updates
- Google News: Clemson vs Texas Super Regional
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
