In the 2025 Women’s College World Series (WCWS), the Tennessee Lady Volunteers faced off against the UCLA Bruins in a thrilling matchup that highlighted the exceptional talents of pitcher Karlyn Pickens and infielder Laura Mealer. Their performances were instrumental in Tennessee’s journey through the tournament, showcasing their skills on one of college softball’s biggest stages.
Karlyn Pickens: Dominance in the Circle
Karlyn Pickens, a junior pitcher from Weaverville, North Carolina, has been a cornerstone of Tennessee’s pitching staff. Standing at 6’1″, her presence on the mound is both commanding and intimidating to opposing hitters.
Season Highlights
In the 2025 season, Pickens continued to build on her impressive collegiate career. She was named to the Preseason All-SEC Team and was recognized by both USA Softball and D1Softball as a Preseason All-American . Her accolades are a testament to her consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
Record-Breaking Performance
One of the most notable moments of Pickens’ season came during a Super Regional game against Nebraska, where she set a new NCAA record for the fastest pitch in Division I college softball, clocking in at 79.4 mph . This feat not only showcased her exceptional arm strength but also her ability to perform under pressure.
WCWS Contribution
In the WCWS matchup against UCLA, Pickens delivered a stellar performance, keeping the Bruins’ offense at bay and giving her team a chance to secure the win. Her ability to maintain composure and execute pitches in high-stakes situations was crucial to Tennessee’s success in the tournament.
Laura Mealer: Offensive Powerhouse
Senior infielder Laura Mealer, hailing from Chapel Hill, Tennessee, has been a significant contributor to the Lady Vols’ offensive lineup. Her journey from Middle Tennessee State University to the University of Tennessee has been marked by consistent improvement and impact.
Background and Transfer
Before joining Tennessee, Mealer had a standout career at Middle Tennessee State, where she led the team in multiple offensive categories and earned several accolades, including C-USA All-Conference First Team honors . Her transfer to Tennessee added depth and experience to the Lady Vols’ infield and batting order.
Season Performance
Throughout the 2025 season, Mealer continued to demonstrate her offensive prowess. She recorded multiple multi-hit games and was instrumental in key victories. Her ability to deliver in clutch situations made her a reliable asset for the team.
WCWS Impact
In the game against UCLA, Mealer’s offensive contributions were pivotal. She drove in critical runs, including a decisive hit that propelled Tennessee ahead. Her performance underlined her role as a clutch hitter and a leader on the field.
Visual Highlights
Photographs from the Tennessee vs. UCLA game capture the intensity and emotion of the matchup.
- Karlyn Pickens in Action: Images show Pickens delivering pitches with precision and focus, embodying her dominance in the circle.
- Laura Mealer’s Celebrations: Photos capture Mealer’s reactions after key hits, showcasing her passion and the energy she brings to the team.
These visuals not only highlight individual performances but also the collective spirit and determination of the Lady Volunteers during the WCWS.
The 2025 WCWS matchup between Tennessee and UCLA was a showcase of talent, determination, and the culmination of years of hard work by athletes like Karlyn Pickens and Laura Mealer. Their contributions were instrumental in Tennessee’s performance, and their legacies will inspire future generations of softball players.
