The 2026 NCAA softball tournament is set to commence with the Women’s College World Series, featuring eight teams in a double-elimination format. Play begins Thursday, May 28, at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.
The two remaining teams will compete in a best-of-three championship series starting June 3.
Teams in Contention
The field includes a strong presence from the SEC, with No. 1 Alabama, No. 2 Texas, No. 5 Arkansas, No. 7 Tennessee, and Mississippi State all participating in the tournament.
Other teams to watch include No. 4 Nebraska, led by Jordy Frahm, and No. 8 UCLA, who holds the record for NCAA titles with 12. No. 11 Texas Tech also returns after a runner-up finish last year.
Tournament Format and Schedule
The 2026 Women’s College World Series will begin with four games at Devon Park in Oklahoma City on Thursday, May 28.
Heavy SEC Representation
- No. 1 Alabama
- No. 2 Texas
- No. 5 Arkansas
- No. 7 Tennessee
- Mississippi State
The 2026 NCAA softball tournament continues with eight teams set to open play at the Women’s College World Series beginning Thursday, May 28, in a double-elimination format at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.