UCLA Takes Close Lead Over Oregon in WCWS Showdown

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The UCLA Bruins took a narrow 2-1 lead over the Oregon Ducks in their matchup at the Women’s College World Series (WCWS) on May 31, 2025. The game saw thrilling action as the clock approached midnight in Oklahoma City.

As the sixth inning unfolded, UCLA’s Kaitlyn Terry displayed remarkable control, allowing only three hits so far. With just six outs left, the stakes are high for the Bruins, making victory essential in their quest for a championship.

Oregon’s Lyndsey Grein pitched five solid innings but was unable to prevent a two-run home run by UCLA’s Alexis Ramirez earlier in the game. The Ducks require a rally in their last two innings to secure their chance at victory, with six outs remaining to swing the game in their favor.

In a critical defensive play, Ramirez defended her team’s lead by throwing out Kaylynn Jones at second base in the fifth inning, halting any potential scoring threat from the Ducks. Both teams demonstrated high energy, with UCLA celebrating enthusiastically in their dugout.

The history of the WCWS is rich and includes long-standing traditions, such as fans retrieving home run balls and delivering them to families in the stands. According to The Oklahoman, this custom has been a part of the event for the last 20 years.

Despite the late hour, with it being 11:30 p.m. in Oklahoma City, the excitement in the stadium is palpable as UCLA aims to open the tournament with a win. After a slow start, Ramirez invigorated the game with her two-run homer, igniting the crowd and her teammates.

Earlier in the match, Oregon’s Kedre Luschar made a spectacular catch at the wall to rob Savannah Pola of a home run, keeping the Ducks ahead temporarily. While UCLA struggled to find momentum early on, they are now poised to capitalize on any errors made by Oregon in the closing innings.

As the next inning approaches, both teams remain on edge, aware that every pitch counts. With the lights flickering at times during this contest, players and coaches are focusing on maintaining composure while also entertaining anxieties of potential interruptions. Each play is monumental as they fight for victory in this prestigious tournament.

The match continues to develop in suspense, offering fans a thrilling night of collegiate softball.