Oregon Softball Team Prepares for Crucial WCWS Matchup

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oregon softball team is gearing up for a pivotal game in the Women’s College World Series after a day of recovery on Saturday. Their journey in the tournament took an exciting turn with a late-night victory over Ole Miss following a weather-delayed loss to UCLA on Thursday.

The Ducks battled in the elimination game against Ole Miss, playing 10 innings that ended in the early hours of Saturday local time. They will face Texas at 4 p.m. PT on Sunday after the Longhorns triumphed over Oklahoma to determine the matchup.

“What I wanted for this group today was for them to really just take a second to exhale,” said Coach Melyssa Lombardi, who is making her 13th appearance in the WCWS. “We’re prepared. It’s just a great day to exhale and then get ready for tomorrow.”

On Saturday, the team engaged in light practice, yoga sessions, and merchandise shopping at Devon Park, the WCWS venue. This marks Oregon’s first appearance at the championship since 2018, and the players are savoring every moment of their experience.

<p“All year we’ve talked about celebrating and enjoying what we’re doing,” Lombardi added. “And that’s what the world is seeing. We’re ahead, behind, tied, and they’re not flinching. They’re still smiling and enjoying every moment.”

Pitcher Allee Grein, who threw 144 pitches to secure the win against Ole Miss, said she’s ready for round two if needed. “Whatever this team requires to win, I’m more than willing to do,” Grein stated.

Strength and conditioning training throughout the year has helped the Ducks manage their endurance, according to Lombardi. “From day one we talked about how it all starts in the weight room,” she explained. “These guys have the strength, endurance, and mindset to go along with it.”

The Ducks received a surprise visit from program alum and Olympic medalist Janie Takeda Reed, who congratulated senior Makenna Luschar for breaking her stolen base record. Luschar expressed her gratitude, acknowledging how much the alumni support means to the current team.

“They just give us so much strength and courage. They’re incredible, and I love them so much,” Luschar said.

Heading into Sunday’s matchup, the team maintains a strong batting average in the tournament, with Luschar leading at .485. Freshman Ava Jones and senior shortstop Jami Sinicki are also key players with averages above .400.

As the Ducks prepare for the next challenge, they demonstrate resilience and camaraderie, critical elements in navigating the high-pressure environment of the World Series.