Omaha’s Spotlight
The 2026 College World Series final is set to begin Saturday, June 20, at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, where the University of North Carolina will meet the Oklahoma Sooners in a best‑of‑three series for the national championship.
Coach Scott Forbes, now in his third year leading the Tar Heels, has spoken openly about the nerves he felt before a championship game in 2006, when he was too anxious to eat before the final. He tells his current squad that those same feelings can be a source of strength if they learn to enjoy the chase.
A Coach’s Lesson
During a news conference on Friday, June 19, the national championship trophy was displayed front and center on a table between Forbes, pitcher Jason DeCaro, and second baseman Gavin Gallaher, underscoring the magnitude of the upcoming contest.
The Tar Heels arrive with a stellar record of 53‑12‑1, while the Sooners sit at 41‑22, setting the stage for a clash that will be broadcast at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Forbes has told his players to embrace the nerves and excitement of playing in the national championship, reminding them that the experience itself is a reward regardless of the final score.
With the trophy gleaming and the crowd gathering, the team is focused on enjoying the moment and letting the pressure fuel their performance.