The 2026 NCAA Men's College World Series opened with a commanding performance as the Oklahoma Sooners defeated the North Carolina Tar Heels 9‑3 in the first finals game, a result that leaves the Sooners just one victory away from securing their third national championship.
Early Fireworks at the Series
Oklahoma struck first in the top of the first inning, plating two runs when junior catcher Deiten Lachance launched a two‑run homer that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The Tar Heels answered in the bottom half, taking a 3‑2 lead on a two‑run single by second baseman Gavin Gallaher and a sacrifice fly from catcher Colin Hynek, but the lead was short‑lived.
Lachance’s bat kept the pressure on, adding a solo homer in the third inning to knot the game before Oklahoma erupted for four runs in the fourth. Sophomore second baseman Kyle Branch delivered a two‑run single, and his effort was complemented by an RBI infield single from junior center fielder Jason Walk, who later scored on a base hit from Camden Johnson.
A Pitching Masterclass
Freshman right‑hander Cord Rager, together with juniors Gavyn Jones and LJ Mercurius, shut down the Tar Heels over the final eight innings, allowing just three runs on five hits while striking out five. Rager earned the win with a solid outing that featured five strikeouts, three runs permitted, five hits and two walks.
The Sooners capped the scoring in the sixth inning on a base hit by Walk and added a final run in the ninth when Johnson crossed the plate on a double play, sealing a 9‑3 victory. UNC starter Jason DeCaro took the loss, and the team’s bullpen proved decisive after the opening frame.
What Comes Next
The series will continue with Game 2 scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, broadcast live on ABC, as the Sooners look to close out the championship and the Tar Heels aim to force a decisive third contest.