Home / Sports / Huskies Clinch Big East Title, Return to NCAA Tournament
Huskies Clinch Big East Title, Return to NCAA Tournament
10 May
Summary
- UConn Huskies secured their second consecutive Big East Tournament title.
- They earned an automatic bid to the 2026 NCAA Softball Championship.
- A five-run sixth inning secured the victory against Creighton Bluejays.
The UConn Huskies have clinched their second consecutive Big East Tournament championship, securing an automatic bid to the 2026 NCAA Softball Championship. They triumphed over the Creighton Bluejays with an 8-3 victory in a rematch of the previous year's title game. This marks the Huskies' fourth appearance in the championship game in the last five years and their fifth consecutive 30-win season under head coach Lauren Valentino.
Despite the offseason transfer of standout twin sisters Grace and Hope Jenkins, the Huskies achieved this success. A pivotal five-run sixth inning propelled them to victory. Trailing by three runs, the rally was ignited by Heidi Barber's RBI triple, followed by a two-run homer from Cat Petteys, and contributions from Emma Willers and Kai Kibling.
Creighton fought hard, seeking their first-ever Big East Tournament title. They had a historic moment when Lily West became the program's career hits leader with 246 hits. However, their offensive efforts were stifled by UConn pitcher Jess Walter, who completed the game with one strikeout and three earned runs.
