Ending a decade-long drought, the record-breaking Jayhawks seek redemption against the Wolverines behind lights-out pitching and an explosive offense to kick off their historic postseason run in Norman.
Kansas Softball Opens NCAA Tournament Against Michigan in Norman Regional
Kansas softball is headed back to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015, and the Jayhawks will begin regional play Friday against Michigan at Love’s Field.
Kansas Jayhawks softball enters the postseason at 35-19 overall after a historic regular season under head coach Jennifer McFalls. The Jayhawks set program records in conference wins, home runs, doubles, runs scored, and RBIs while securing their first NCAA Tournament berth in over a decade.
Kansas and Michigan already met once this season, with the Wolverines earning a 4-2 win back in February. McFalls believes the rematch presents a strong opportunity for her team.
“We had the lead in that game and probably should have won that game early on,” McFalls said. “I think it’s a great matchup for us to start off.”
Kansas enters the regional coming off strong performances late in the year, including a 10-1 run-rule victory over Oklahoma State Cowgirls softball and a comeback win over UCF Knights softball in the Big 12 Tournament.
Freshman pitcher Lila Partridge has emerged as one of the team’s biggest postseason weapons after throwing five straight complete games, while players like Ava Wallace, Kadence Stafford, and Campbell Bagshaw continue to lead the offense.
Michigan enters the regional at 34-20 and is led by standout hitter Lauren Putz, who is batting .442 with 21 home runs and 77 RBIs.
Also included in the Norman Regional are Oklahoma Sooners softball and Binghamton Bearcats softball.
First pitch between Kansas and Michigan is scheduled for 5 p.m. CT Friday on ESPNU.
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Seattle Seahawks Land Steal with Emmanuel Henderson Jr.
The Seattle Seahawks might have just found a gem. Emmanuel Henderson Jr. is officially off the board, and for where he was taken, this feels like a steal. He was one of the few bright spots for Kansas last season, finishing with 766 receiving yards and five touchdowns while also making an impact in the return game. The upside is easy to see.
Henderson’s speed jumps out immediately. He can stretch the field, create big plays, and flip momentum as a returner. That 214 yard, two touchdown game against Cincinnati showed exactly what he can be when everything clicks.
He is not a finished product, but late in the draft, that is what you are betting on. Traits and ceiling.
Seattle gets a player who can contribute on special teams right away and develop into more in the offense. If he puts it together, this could end up being one of the better value picks from this class. Low risk, high upside. That is a win.